Cutting-Edge Car Tech Misreads Speed Limits, Putting Drivers at Risk

As of November 15th, 2025, a growing number of drivers are reporting issues with the state-of-the-art speed limit recognition technology in their premium vehicles. The Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) system, which uses cameras to read speed limit signs and alert drivers, has been misreading signs and providing incorrect information.

Owners of the £55,000 Mazda CX-60 and £37,000 Volvo XC40 have complained that the system is advising them they can drive at speeds of 80mph, 90mph, and even 100mph in 30mph zones, including near schools. One driver reported being told they could do 80mph in a Sainsbury's car park, while another said the problem is causing "mayhem" around schools.

The issue is particularly concerning in high-performance cars like the £96,000 Porsche Macan Turbo, which can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 3.3 seconds. Some owners have reported the car suddenly changing speed to match the incorrectly read limit, creating dangerous situations on the road.

Dealers have apparently been selling these vehicles without informing customers of the ongoing problem, which has been reported for over a year. While the faulty alerts can be ignored, the systems are often linked to self-adapting cruise control, causing the vehicle to automatically speed up or slow down based on the incorrect information.

Manufacturers are now working to address the issue, with Porsche planning to release a software update to improve the traffic sign recognition technology. However, the incidents highlight the potential risks of over-relying on automated driving assistance features that are not yet fully reliable.