[citation][nom]memadmax[/nom]Why is this news?They already do it, now this is a "mandate" to the manufacturers for something they already do....If you are concerned about it, and want to remove it, and gain control over the engine/transmission so that you can fine tune it, there are aftermarket systems such as MegaSquirt, that do a real good job, and are surprisingly, OpenSource... =D[/citation]
There is nothing currently in use that does what these "black boxes" do. The powertrain and other control systems only store data relevant to system malfunctions.
[citation][nom]kellybean[/nom]This is more about getting a gps device and who knows what other stuff in cars and less about safety. Big Brother at it again. Never trust your government, it is full of liars.[/citation]
GPS, no, these "black boxes" aren't used for tracking the vehicle. The purpose is to determine the cause of accidents. Basically, it'll give insurance companies more excuses for increasing rates....
[citation][nom]Anti-Statist[/nom]Most likely they're trying to know how far we drive so we can be taxed by the mile in addition to being taxed at the pump.[/citation]
I'm sure we all expect this....and don't be surprised if you turn out to be right.
[citation][nom]robochump[/nom]Hmmmmm...I wonder if insurance companies are behind this and already finding ways to void your warranty from the type of info recorded. lol[/citation]
Yes, the auto insurance companies are supporting this because it gives them yet another excuse to raise rates or deny claims (in states where they legally can).
[citation][nom]elbert[/nom]Wow and next the boxes have wifi and our cars snitch on use. LOL my car reports I have broken the speed limit, not wearing a seat belt, late getting in my insurance, and didnt come to a complete stop at the stop sign. Sounds like they want more ticket revenue and cheaper means to collect the data.[/citation]
There's even been rumors of integrating heart rate monitors into this "black box" system so it can detect "anomalies" in your heart rate while driving.... By the time it's done, it'll even know when you have bowel movements and whether your digestive tract is functioning properly....