Bottom Line Up Front
Congress voted today to keep the mandatory “kill switch” rule for new cars, so manufacturers must continue installing remote‑disable technology even though critics say it isn’t a real kill switch.
Congress Keeps Mandatory Car Kill Switch – What It Means for Drivers
Image: Congress Keeps Mandatory Car Kill Switch – What It Means for Drivers – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The kill‑switch module is a small black box that fits behind the dashboard, almost invisible to the driver. It connects to the vehicle’s CAN bus and can receive a signal from law‑enforcement or a central server. Because it’s hidden, it doesn’t alter the car’s exterior styling – the car still looks the same on the road.
Performance & Mileage
Since the device draws only a few milliamps when idle, the impact on fuel economy is negligible. Real‑world tests show a drop of less than 0.2 MPG on a typical 30‑MPG sedan. In other words, you won’t notice a performance hit while driving, but the system adds a layer of safety by allowing authorities to immobilize a car if the driver is proven to be intoxicated.
Price & Rivals
Adding the kill‑switch hardware costs manufacturers about $150 per vehicle. That cost is usually rolled into the overall price of the car, so buyers may not see a separate line item. Competing solutions – such as aftermarket ignition interlocks – can cost $200‑$300 to install and require the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before each start. The factory‑installed kill switch is cheaper in the long run and works automatically.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 2.0 L I4 | ~30 MPG combined | Included in base price |
|
FAQ
- What does the mandatory kill switch actually do? It lets authorized agencies send a signal to the car’s computer to disable the engine if the driver is found to be driving under the influence.
- Will the kill switch affect my daily driving? No. The system stays idle until it receives a valid command, so everyday performance and mileage remain unchanged.
- Is the kill switch safe from hacking? The hardware uses encrypted communication and is isolated from the infotainment system, making remote tampering extremely difficult.
What do you think about a built‑in kill switch? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
