The Dilemma of Car Speed Limits: A Closer Look at Manufacturer Strategies

Why are cars manufactured with readings that exceed the acceptable speed limit? While the common argument is that individuals are expected to adhere to the accepted speed limits, the key factor often revolves not around speed, but power and performance. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this and explore the broader context of car technology and speed limits.

Power and Performance Over Speed Limits

Buying a car is not just about its speedometer readings; it's about the overall power and performance it delivers. Consider a scenario where you need to drive up Grossglockner at a speed of 70 kph for a steep climb. The same car would be more than capable of reaching 160 kph on a flat road. Now, imagine driving on a flat, multilane road in Kansas consistently. In such cases, drivers might not even be aware of the existence of speed cameras, paving the way for relaxed speed limits.

Moreover, the idea of imposing speed limiters is often met with resistance, especially in countries where drivers are accustomed to handling high-performance driving conditions. For example, if driving to overtake a truck in a mountainous road is a necessity, it would be unreasonable to enforce strict speed limits that would hinder this capability.

Global Use of Speed Cameras

In many civilized countries, the use of speed cameras is widespread. These devices do not just control speed but also ensure that drivers have paid their vehicle taxes and passed annual emission and safety tests. However, the US, a country known for its straightforward approach to driving, often struggles with this concept.

Interestingly, the capability of a car to exceed the speed limits is still a significant marketing tool. Some roads allow higher speeds, and buying a high-performance car often implies the ability to use it on straights or race tracks. Unless you are driving on the Nürburgring, a race track, higher speeds are often not necessary for everyday driving.

Legal and Practical Considerations

While some roads do not have speed limits due to legal or practical reasons, such as private land, former airfields, or parade grounds, the main issue with cars designed to exceed speed limits is the lack of legal restrictions. This situation is expected to change, as from July 7, 2022, the EU and UK will mandate that new cars cannot exceed 112 mph (approximately 180 km/h). This new protocol, known as the ISA (Intelligent Speed Adaptation), aims to ensure safer driving conditions.

The top speed of a car is influenced by various factors, including the engine and gearbox. It is not about reaching the top speed displayed on the speedometer; it is about the optimal performance of the car under different driving conditions. Speed limits vary across different roads and countries, making it impractical to limit a car's speed based solely on local regulations.

Conclusion and Future Trends

The current state of car manufacturing often emphasizes the car's potential to exceed speed limits, driven by the need for powerful performance and the marketing benefits. However, in the face of advancing car technology and increasing safety concerns, the trend is moving towards more balanced and safer driving experiences. Regulations such as the ISA in the EU and UK are likely to become more common, driving manufacturers to reconsider their approach.

By understanding the complexities behind car speed limits, we can better appreciate the balance between power, performance, and safety in modern vehicle design.