Auto giant Ford has introduced a new technology called MyKey, a key which allows parents to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teenagers to drive safely and more fuel efficiently.

MyKey will be on the road from next year as standard equipment on the 2010 Focus coupe model. Owners are able to program the key to limit top speeds up to 130 km/h and audio volume, as well as encouraging seat belt usage and fuel economy.

It has some very intelligent features including the “Presistent Ford Beltminder” which chimes to remind teens to belt up and mutes the radio until the seat belt is buckled.

Unsurprisingly, Ford’s research shows that parents love it and teenagers don’t (but are open to it if it means they can drive more).

I think the ability for parents to limit speed is a good idea (within reason – I wouldn’t like to be stuck on 60 km/h all the time) – it’s no secret that speeding can lead to accidents – Ford claims it contributes to 30% of all fatal crashes.

And beeping or chiming of any sort is enough to make me comply.

But controlling the volume is going a bit far.

The idea behind limiting the volume levels is to reduce distractions, and while I see the method in this, I’m not keen on this part. I generally like things to be louder than my parents do – tv, radio etc. Maybe that’s my weak Gen Y ears, exposed to years of loud music at clubs, festivals & iPods perhaps? Either way, the volume level is a choice I would like to make myself.

But other than that, I think it’s a great idea. I have a friend who drives too fast, and although he’s almost 30, maybe I could speak to his mum about getting hold of his keys…..