World #3 – EU to require carmakers to install speed limiters in all cars
Tuesday's World Events - April 2, 2019
Questions
1. For the EUROPEAN UNION, give the following information:
- capital
- member countries of the EU (and year of entry)
- the religious breakdown of the population
- the type of government
- the chief of state (and head of government if different) If monarch or dictator, since what date has he/she ruled? – include name of heir apparent for monarch
- the population
Find the answers at the CIA World FactBook website. For each country, answers can be found under the “Geography” “People” and “Government” headings.
NOTE: Before answering the following questions, read the info under “Background” below.
2. For the EUROPEAN UNION:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What do the EU commissioners say is the reason for the new rule?
c) How do Intelligent Speed Assistance systems work?
d) What concerns does the European Automotive Manufacturers Association have about the technology?
e) What suggestion did the Association make?
f) The CEO of Volvo said, ”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 behavior.” Do you think it is a good idea for manufacturers to be in control of shaping drivers’ behavior? Explain your answer.
g) Fortune reports: “The Commission is also pitching the safety features as a stepping-stone toward a future of fully-automated vehicles. ‘The new advanced safety features will help drivers get gradually used to the new driving assistance,’ it said in a statement. ‘Increasing degrees of automation offer significant potential to compensate for human errors and offer new mobility solutions for the elderly and physically impaired. All this should enhance public trust and acceptance of automated cars, supporting the transition towards autonomous driving.’”
What is your reaction to this? Would it be the same if the U.S. government developed similar rules/laws? Explain your answer.
OPTIONAL: How much do you think all of this technology will increase the cost of any new vehicle?