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Ford's new S-Max will offer Intelligent Speed Limiter, a new technology that scans traffic signs and adjusts the throttle to help drivers stay within legal speed limits and avoid fines.]

The new model offers a range of more than 20 new technologies, including global debuts for Glare-Free Highbeam and Ford Adaptive Steering. For the first time, S-MAX will also be available with Ford's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD).

"All-new S-MAX defies the notion that a versatile seven-seat family car cannot also be stylish, rewarding to drive and technologically advanced," said Roelant de Waard, vice president, marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe.

"Intelligent Speed Limiter is one of those technologies that people will wonder how they did without - not just because they avoid speeding fines but because driving becomes that much less stressful."

Intelligent Speed Limiter combines the functionality of two Ford technologies:

  • Adjustable Speed Limiter - enables drivers to manually set a maximum vehicle speed
  • Traffic Sign Recognition - provides drivers with the latest detected speed limit, cancellation signs and overtaking restrictions via the instrument cluster display

Drivers can choose between speed limiting systems in the vehicle menu using the steering wheel controls, and activate them using the speed system controls. Maximum speed for Intelligent Speed Limiter can be set and then raised or lowered in 5 mph increments. Between 20-120 mph the technology utilises speed limit information from the Traffic Sign Recognition system. In vehicles equipped with onboard navigation, Intelligent Speed Limiter also uses map data for improved accuracy.

Intelligent Speed Limiter allows drivers to set a speed tolerance of up to 5 mph above the detected speed limit. The system does not apply the brakes but smoothly controls engine torque by electronically adjusting the amount of fuel delivered. If the S-MAX overruns the set maximum speed because of a downhill gradient, an alarm is sounded. Drivers can temporarily override the system by pressing firmly on the accelerator.

"Speed limiting technology was last year specified on around two thirds of Ford vehicles for which it was available - proving popular with drivers who want to ensure they avoid incurring speeding fines by unintentionally exceeding the speed limit. Intelligent Speed Limiter makes that even easier," said Stefan Kappes, active safety supervisor, Ford of Europe.

The all-new S-MAX is available from £24,545, with deliveries due this summer. The first-generation S-MAX was European Car of the Year in 2007 and has been sold to more than 400,000 customers across Europe - including almost 82,000 in the UK.

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