Signal blocker to keep eyes off phones and on the road

DRIVERS who use their mobile phones at the wheel are a growing problem on Britain’s roads, but the first car claiming to block calls and messages may offer the solution.

Using wire mesh technology, Nissan has developed a “Signal Shield” for its Juke crossover vehicle.

The manufacturer claims it will eliminate distractions caused by incoming calls, messages and social media notifications.

It comes after penalties and fines for illegal phone use by drivers doubled to six points and £200 on March 1.

An RAC survey of more than 1,700 UK motorists found that the proportion who admitted to using a hand-held phone behind the wheel increased from eight per cent in 2014 to 31 per cent last year. Nissan’s shield works on the principle of the Faraday cage – invented in the 1830s – which uses material such as a wire mesh to shield its contents from electromagnetic fields.

All mobile, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals are prevented from reaching inside the shielded compartment, in the driver’s arm rest, once the lid is closed.

Alex Smith, managing director of Nissan Motor GB, said: “Some drivers are immune to the activity of their smartphone, but for those who struggle to ignore the beeps and pings, this concept provides a simple solution in this very connected world we live in.”

Pete Williams, RAC road safety spokesman, said: “Hand-held phone use by drivers has reached epidemic proportions. The use of a hand-held phone when driving represents both a physical and mental distraction and it has been illegal since 2003.”