Volvo Care Key standard for 2021

Volvo is making it easier for owners to keep tabs on people borrowing their cars.

All 2021 Volvo models in Australia will feature the Care Key, a backup key allowing owners to lock the top speed of their cars when it’s in use.

Ford offers something similar with its MyKey system, which lets owners limit the audio volume and speed of their cars when the backup key is in use.

“Parents want to be able to share their car with friends and family, but our research shows they worry about how to ensure they are safe on the road. Volvo Care Key is a good safety solution that gives them some extra peace of mind,” said Greg Bosnich, Volvo Australia communications boss.

Volvo has been more proactive than most in trying to keep speeds down in search of better road safety.

The Swedish carmaker last year limited the top speed of its cars to 180km/h, on the back of research showing modern vehicles and road infrastructure can’t handle accidents above that speed.

Although not necessarily relevant in Australia, the move will impact drivers on derestricted European highways.

“We want to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even an obligation to install technology in cars that changes their driver’s behaviour, to tackle things like speeding, intoxication or distraction,” Volvo Car CEO Hakan Samuelsson said when announcing the move.

“We don’t have a firm answer to this question, but believe we should take leadership in the discussion and be a pioneer.”

The company is also investigating ways to speed limit cars around schools and hospitals with geofences.

MORE: Volvo news, reviews, comparisons and videos