Autonomous radars in France, the new way of monitoring speed on roads

Speed camera technology keeps advancing over time. In fact, the era when traffic radars were limited to recording the speed of a vehicle exceeding the limit of the road where they were located and taking the corresponding photo is long gone. Today, radars are able to detect more offences, and even those that are limited to detecting speeding are receiving many technological advances.

Several high-tech radars have entered service in France. They are not only equipped with LIDAR technology to measure the speed of vehicles travelling at the same time in different lanes, but they also have the ability to move autonomously.

Radars with autonomous mobility

France was the first country where they are being used effectively, but this type of radar has been discussed for several years. They are located in areas marked with the fixed radar sign, but they have a particularity. Although they are placed within this area, they are not fixed to a post on the ground. They use a wheel system and an electric motor that allows them to move within their operating zone.

In this way, drivers do not know exactly where it is located, as it can move several tens of metres. Drivers therefore cannot know the exact kilometre point where the radar is located. This means they cannot slow down when passing the spot where the fixed radar is usually located and speed up again once past it, since it may be positioned along a longer stretch, forcing them to stay alert at all times.

This radar uses LIDAR laser and allows offender data to be sent via Wi-Fi to the traffic control centre, so the system immediately receives the infraction in order to issue the fine. In addition, they are armoured to prevent deliberate or accidental damage. It is an innovative radar system that may soon become popular in other European countries.

Another measure the French government is considering is the removal of warning signs about radars. The idea is that drivers should always keep their speed below the limits, and know they can be fined at any point where they exceed them. For the time being, this is a proposal and has not yet been approved.