What are the new AI speed cameras and how will they work?

NEW AI cameras that can automatically detect drivers breaking motoring laws while behind the wheel were introduced to UK roads on September 3, 2024.

Complete with 4D radar and super-resolution cameras, the futuristic tech is currently being tested by 10 police forces, before being rolled out as part of a wider national trial.

National Highways

What are the new AI speed cameras?

The new speed cameras work by capturing footage of passing vehicles, which is then run through AI to detect whether a driver is committing a driving offence, such as using their smartphone or not wearing a seatbelt.

The software takes two precise photos — the first from an angle showing whether or not the driver is wearing their seatbelt or has a phone to their ear, the second a deeper angle capturing if the motorist is using a device for messaging.

It’s claimed that the software, which was built by tech company Acusensus, will “provide automated recognition of drivers using mobile phones while driving in order to enforce traffic safety laws intended to prevent distracted driving”.

The equipment isn’t entirely reliant on AI though — the footage has to be examined by a human to confirm whether the software has actually picked up an offence being committed.

Drivers will only be issued with a penalty charge notice once the additional check has been completed.

Acusensus says that the AI cameras, known as their ‘Heads Up’ software, have the ability to capture images at any time of the day or night and in almost any weather conditions, including sun glare.

Not only can the AI cameras capture drivers speeding, but also using their phones behind the wheel, failing to wear a seatbelt, failing to stop at a red light, driving without a valid MOT and driving without insurance.

Any images captured that don’t show an offence or are incorrect will be deleted immediately from their archives, Acusensus claims.

The state-of-the-art devices will also be used by Safer Roads Greater Manchester as part of their survey to find out how many road users break the law, which could be used to determine future road safety campaigns relating to mobile phone usage and seat belts.

Peter Boulton, TfGM’s Network Director for Highways, said: “In Greater Manchester we know that distractions and not wearing seat belts are key factors in a number of road traffic collisions on our roads which have resulted in people being killed or seriously injured.

“By utilising this state-of-the-art technology provided by Acusensus, we hope to gain a better understanding of how many drivers break the law in this way, whilst also helping to reduce these dangerous driving practices and make our roads safer for everyone.”

Normal yellow speed cameras will still remain in place going forward.

However, if you spot a second camera positioned above the traditional version, it is likely one of the new AI models.

Where are the new AI speed cameras being rolled out?

The new AI cameras, which can be mounted to a vehicle or to a trailer, are currently being trialled by 10 police forces.

Those taking part in the trial are: Greater Manchester, Durham, Humberside, Staffordshire, West Mercia, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Norfolk, Thames Valley Police and Sussex.

The long-term plan is for AI cameras to be attached to gantries on motorways in the trial regions, but for now the aim is to simply help police understand how AI can be used on National Highway roads.

National Highways and the police began their trial rollout of AI camera tech in 2021, and it is set to run until March 2025.

A similar trial in Cornwall in 2023 saw 300 Brits caught out within just three days.

Will the AI speed cameras be able to identify drivers and passengers?

The 4D radar technology utilised by the AI speed cameras can scan inside moving vehicles and identify any motoring violations.

They are also capable of monitoring up to six lanes of traffic at the same time, and can link directly to the DVLA and police databases to check for tax, insurance, and other violations.

The cameras capture high-resolution images, meaning they are capable of identifying drivers and passengers, which can help police enforce laws related to seatbelt use and mobile phone usage.

Offences the new AI cameras could catch

• Speeding — three penalty points on your driving licence and a minimum £100 fine
• Driving without a valid MOT — maximum fine of £1,000
• Driving without insurance — six penalty points on your licence and a £300 fine
• Failing to stop at a red traffic signal — three penalty points on your driving licence and a £100 fine
• Using your phone while driving — six penalty points on your driving licence and a £200 fine 
• Not wearing a seatbelt — a maximum £500 fine