Spain introduces AI speed control up to 150 km/h on motorways

Road safety in Spain is moving into a new phase. Catalonia has become the first region in the country to roll out an artificial intelligence (AI)-based speed control system, following in the footsteps of countries such as Germany and France.

Under this new approach, on certain stretches of road and under specific conditions, vehicles may be allowed to travel at up to 150 km/h on motorways in Spain-going beyond the long-standing 120 km/h limit.

The idea behind the model is straightforward: the maximum permitted speed is not treated as a fixed figure. Instead, AI evaluates real-time factors-such as weather conditions, traffic volumes, road surface condition, roadworks, visibility and even the time of day-to set the safest and most efficient speed limit for that moment.

In other words, AI continually adjusts the maximum speed. The system is also intended to reduce accidents, improve fuel consumption and cut CO₂ emissions, while also aiming to prevent congestion.

Trials under way

Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has already begun the first practical trials. On the AP-7 motorway, in El Vendrell, Catalonia, a section is now being tested where driving at 150 km/h is permitted without the risk of a penalty-provided conditions allow it and the system authorises it.

What about Portugal?

For the time being, Portugal has not shown signs of taking the same route. National legislation still sets 120 km/h as the maximum speed on all motorways.

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