The Intelligent Speed Assistant (ISA) is one of the latest additions to driver assistance systems, which is becoming increasingly important in terms of safety and compliance with EU regulations. From July 2022, the ISA system is compulsory equipment on newly homologated vehicles throughout the European Union, and from July 2024 it will have to be present in every new car released for sale. How exactly does the ISA system work, how does the Intelligent Speed Control Assistant differ from other systems, what benefits does it bring and what challenges does it face? Let's find out.

What is the ISA system and what are its tasks?

ISA system (Intelligent Speed Assistance) is a state-of-the-art technological solution whose the task is to control the speed of the vehicle in real time and alerting the driver of exceeding the speed limit. The system combines information from traffic sign recognition system and digital map data to determine which permitted speed applies to the section of road in question.

ISA Intelligent Speed Assistant works in such a way that it not only informs the driver, but also - in some versions - limits the engine power when a speeding. Depending on the configuration, ISA system can operate in passive version (information and warning) or active (engine intervention).

How does ISA (intelligent speed control assistant) work in practice?

The operation of the system is based on a combination of several technologies. The most important elements are:

• Camera mounted behind the rear-view mirrorwhich is used to traffic sign recognition,
• GPS systemwhich provides mapping data on speed limits,
• Central controllerwhich analyses data in real time.

After starting the engine, as well as after opening of vehicle doors, the system calibrates and starts to analyse the environment. If the camera detects speed limit sign or the map data will indicate a different limit, ISA Intelligent Speed Assistant displays a warning on dashboard or home screen. In the case of Speeding violations, the driver may receive beep, visual or perceptible (e.g. via the accelerator pedal).

Obligation to use the ISA system in the European Union

Introduction of the ISA via European Union bodies aimed at increasing safety of road users, as well as the adaptation of new cars to the digital world and autonomous driving systems. In practice, this means:

• From 2022 newly homologated vehicles must be equipped with ISA system,
• From 2024 each new car sold at within the European Union must have intelligent speed assistant,
• Vehicle manufacturers have to adapt their production lines and systems to the new requirements.

ISA system versions - passive and active

ISA system can operate in two basic variants:

1. Passive intelligent speed assistant - informs the driver that he/she is speeding. A message appears on the screen and driver's speed is compared with the limit resulting from the GPS data or road signs. In addition, it appears beep or a flashing light.
2. Active intelligent speed assistant - the system actively intervenes in vehicle speed, limiting engine torque when the driver exceeds the speed limit. The system does not apply the brakes, but by accelerator gives resistance, discouraging further acceleration.

In both cases, the driver has the option of driving alone and may temporarily ignore the warning, however each time the engine is started the system re-activates.

What does the ISA system offer?

Intelligent speed control assistant brings many benefits:

• Improves driving safety and reduces the number of speeding-related accidents,
• It helps to keep the rules in place where they are often broken,
• Supports healthy driving style, limiting aggressive acceleration,
• Protects road users, especially in built-up area,
• Reduces exhaust emissions thanks to a smoother ride,
• It facilitates the use of modern systems such as lane assistant or adaptive cruise control.

Disadvantages and problems with the ISA system

Despite its many advantages, ISA system is not without its drawbacks, and the list of these is getting longer as it becomes more widely used. Here are the most common problems reported by drivers:

• Incorrect recognition of traffic signs - The camera may misread the speed limit sign, especially in the case of bad weather conditionsdirty or obscured signs,
• Excessive interference with the driver's driving style - many users believe that ISA works too aggressively, e.g. by limiting acceleration in situations where momentary speeding is safe,
• Outdated map data - data on speed limits are not always in line with the real situation,
• No permanent shutdown possible - even if the driver deactivates the system, each time the engine is started it turns on again,
• Concerns about privacy of drivers - some users are concerned that data from the system may be shared approval authorities or other institutions,
• In vehicles with automatic gearboxes the system may work late or inconsistently with other support systems.

ZENBOX PRO - the solution for those who want choice

If you are a driver who appreciates autonomous driving and you don't want to be constrained by ISA system, you can take advantage of a solution that is gaining in popularity - the ZENBOX PRO.

ZENBOX PRO is an innovative electronic device that allows the effective and safe deactivation of the intelligent speed assistant - without the risk of voiding the warranty or interfering with the vehicle's factory systems. After its installation:

• ISA system not activated each time the engine is started,
• You have full control over vehicle speed,
• You avoid annoying warnings and interference with the accelerator,
• You can keep your individual driving style without unnecessary restrictions,
• It works discreetly and does not affect other vehicle functions.

Thanks ZENBOX PRO, drivers can regain control of their vehicle and tailor it to their own preferences without sacrificing the convenience of modern solutions.

In the face of widespread ISA introductions on throughout the European Union, ZENBOX PRO may be the answer for those who want to drive responsibly, but also to decide for themselves how their car works.

See also:

• Active vs. Passive Safety – What You Need to Know
• Start stop system - operation
• Mandatory passenger car equipment in 2025
• Character recognition system – how does it work?
• ADAS system – what is it and how does it work
• Lane Assistant – How It Works
• Driver Fatigue Detection System – Does It Really Work?
• The most important safety systems in cars