Every New Volvo Will Be Limited to 180 km/h

In an effort to move closer to its goal of zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries, Volvo has made good on its promise to limit the top speed of its new vehicles to 180 km/h.

Going forward, each new Volvo will also come with a key that can be programmed for individually limited top speeds, ideal for a novice driver to help curb speeding. This type of technology isn’t new, as other automakers have offered different keys or profiles for speed and curfew restrictions for a while now (some even offer a valet mode), but this is the first time an automaker has made a stand on setting a drastically limited top speed in the name of safety.

“We believe that a carmaker has a responsibility to help improve traffic safety,” said Malin Ekholm, head of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre in a press release. “Our speed-limiting technology, and the dialogue that it initiated, fits that thinking. The speed cap and Care Key help people reflect and realize that speeding is dangerous, while also providing extra peace of mind and supporting better driver behaviour.”

Although the 180 km/h limit is far greater than any speed limit on any Canadian roads or highways, some disagree with the limited top speed and the decision has been controversial. The highest speed limit in Canada is 120 km/h, so most drivers shouldn’t have any concerns, but some are still upset by the principle of an automaker imposing such limits and are worried about what other restrictions this could lead to.

Volvo acknowledges this new measure is controversial, but it is moving forward and is tackling the safety issues of distracted driving and driving under the influence next.