All Vehicles Sold in the EU Must Be Able to Hook Up to a Breathalyzer

All vehicles sold within the European Union must include a standard, preinstalled interface that allows a breathalyzer lock to be added to the ignition system. The requirement supports an EU strategy to reduce alcohol-related deaths and injuries by at least 50 percent by 2030. The measure aligns with Vision Zero goals to eliminate alcohol-related traffic fatalities by 2050. It also follows the General Safety Regulation timetable for manufacturers to incorporate safety features at the factory. Automakers must provide an electrical connection and reserved space for an “alcolock” device. The device must comply with European standard EN 50436 and include a certificate from an authorized accrediting entity. The driver blows into the device before starting; if alcohol exceeds the legal limit, the system blocks ignition and prevents starting.

"As of July 1, all vehicles sold within the European Union must include a standard, preinstalled interface that allows a breathalyzer lock to be added to the ignition system. This measure is part of a larger strategy promoted by the EU to reduce drunk-driving-related deaths and injuries by at least 50 percent by 2030."

"The regulation that will become mandatory in July obliges automakers to provide an electrical connection and reserve a space inside the vehicle to allow the installation of an “alcolock” device. This device must comply with European standard EN 50436 for Alcohol Ignition Interlocks and have a certificate issued by an authorized accrediting entity."

"The operation of an alcolock is simple. Before starting the vehicle, the driver must blow into the device, which measures the level of alcohol present in the breath. If the result exceeds the legal limit, the system, which connected to the vehicle's ignition or starting mechanism, automatically blocks the ignition cycle and prevents the car from starting."

"This type of technology already operates in several European countries, mainly as part of programs aimed at repeat offenders of alcohol-related offenses or in certain sectors of professional transport. Official figures estimate that its implementation can reduce fatal accidents associated with alcohol consumption by up to 65 percent."

Read at WIRED