BMW May Finally Do What Auto Industry Has Needed For Decades - CleanTechnica

BMW has filed a patent for a breathalyzer system integrated with a digital key (such as a smartphone or smartwatch) designed to prevent intoxicated individuals from driving. If the driver fails the breathalyzer test, the vehicle will allow operation of non-driving functions like air conditioning and infotainment but will disable the ability to drive. This innovation aims to address the persistent problem of drunk driving, which accounted for approximately 12,429 deaths in the US in 2023, representing about 30% of traffic-related fatalities. While the concept could potentially reduce drunk driving incidents and save lives, the article raises concerns about consumer acceptance and practical implementation. Questions remain about whether drivers would willingly adopt such technology, the possibility of circumventing the system (e.g., having someone else provide the breath sample), and privacy issues related to data sharing with third parties like insurance companies. Despite these uncertainties, the author supports the idea, emphasizing that even saving a single life would justify the effort.