Honda and Hitachi develop new smart key alcohol detection device

Honda has teamed with Hitachi to develop a new prototype alcohol detection device that can be integrated into smart keys.

The portable device is capable of distinguishing human breath from alternative gases and can accurately measure alcohol levels within three seconds.

The two companies have developed the technology to be fully integrated with vehicles, with alcohol levels made visible on a vehicle’s display panel. The device also the capability to become an ignition interlock, which will stop a vehicle from starting when the device measures that a driver is over the legal limit.

The two companies claim that the technology has ‘distinct advantages’ over existing ignition interlocks, as it allows drivers to measure their alcohol level from anywhere prior to entering the vehicle, which it claims will reduce the temptation to drive.

While the device is currently just a prototype, Honda and Hitachi have said they will look to commercialise the technology in the near future following further validation tests.

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