Honda develops breathalyser key

Honda has teamed up with electronics expert, Hitachi, to develop a new smart key that incorporates a breathalyser in an attempt to slash the number of people continuing to drive when drunk.

The key, said to be tamper-proof, is even capable of distinguishing between human breath from other gases.

Accurately measuring the alcohol content of the human body in just three seconds, if the smart key judges you’re over the legal limit your vehicle is rendered immobilised.

Unlike other systems, the new smart key doesn’t require you to be in the vehicle before carrying out the test. Honda says this is an advantage because it removes the temptation to drive.

The new device can also, simultaneously, record alcohol levels and test whether it is human breath and not some other gas entering the system. Other devices need multiple tests.

Honda hasn’t announced whether or not it will put the smart key into production but if it does the smart key could be used for those with previous convictions for drink driving or young or vulnerable drivers who maybe at risk of drink driving.