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Volvo to introduce a maximum 112mph top speed on all its cars by 2020 to reduce fatalities
The Swedish automaker's mission is to have zero fatalities or serious injuries in its new vehicle models by the end of the decade
VOLVO will introduce a maximum speed limit on its cars in efforts to reduce fatalities by 2020.
The Swedish luxury car company will cap its car speeds at 112mph, and stated its aim that no one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by the end of the decade.
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In addition to limit speeds, the automaker is also considering other technology that could put stricter speed limits on cars driving near schools and hospitals.
Currently, most cars are able to exceed speeds of 150mph.
Volvo's mission is to have zero fatalities or serious injuries in its new vehicle models by 2020.
Its statement on Monday, the company said no matter which safety features are built into cars, driver behaviour must be addressed as part of its efforts.
Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson said: "Volvo is a leader in safety: we always have been and we always will be.
"While a speed limitation is not a cure-all, it's worth doing if we can even save one life.
He said there are two other major causes of traffic fatalities – intoxication and distraction, and the company was also looking for new ways to combat these.
He added: "We want to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even an obligation to install technology in cars that changes their driver's behaviour, to tackle things like speeding, intoxication or distraction.
“We don’t have a firm answer to this question, but believe we should take leadership in the discussion and be a pioneer.”
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The decision comes as the European Union is considering enforcing an "Intelligent Speed Assistance" feature on all new cars sold by 2022.
Though full plans are yet to be announced, Volvo has confirmed new features will use a combination of speech and facial recognition to determine whether the driver is fit to drive.
Volvo's safety conference will take place in Gothenburg later this month, where it is expected the new plans will be officially set forth.
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