![Keyfob breathalyser](https://www.wheelswithinwales.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Keyfob-breathalyser-e1459260523773.jpg)
Hitachi and Honda announced they have developed a prototype of a portable alcohol detector that can be integrated into a smart key.
The prototype is tamper-resistant as it can distinguish human breath from alternative gases.This device is capable of distinctively detecting the saturated water vapour from human breath and accurately measures alcohol levels within three seconds. Hitachi and Honda jointly collaborated on developing the technology in an effort to create the ideal alcohol detector.
The two companies also developed a system that can show the alcohol level measured by the detector on a vehicle’s display panel. The system can become an ignition interlock to stop a vehicle from starting when it detects that the driver is under the influence of alcohol.
The prototype has distinct advantages over other ignition interlocks. Currently, other systems require drivers to perform the test from the driver’s seat once inside a vehicle. This device enables drivers to measure their alcohol level from anywhere prior to entering their vehicle,thus reducing the temptation to drive. In addition, it can confirm that the applied gas is human exhaled breath and can detect the level of alcohol present simultaneously, an enhancement over currently available devices.