New high-tech speed cameras that do not flash are being trialled in London as part of efforts to reduce road casualties. The devices use 4D imaging radar to detect speeding vehicles across up to five lanes of traffic in both directions, capturing data on distance, elevation and direction without needing road markings.
Transport for London (TfL) said the technology is “vital to maintain consistent enforcement”. The cameras will initially be deployed in nine boroughs including Haringey, Tower Hamlets and Croydon, in areas with 20mph or 30mph speed limits.
Siwan Hayward, TfL’s director of security, policing and enforcement, said: “Speeding continues to be a major cause of the most devastating collisions on our roads. This trial allows us to test new radar‑based camera technology to ensure it meets London's future enforcement needs.”
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) welcomed the trial but called for action on other issues, such as drivers illegally using mobile phones. An IAM spokesperson said: “It is, however, worth noting that average speeds in London are below 20 mph, so we would also like to see enforcement focus on things like drivers illegally using mobile phones at the wheel alongside these new trials.”
The cameras are being trialled with the Metropolitan Police as part of the Mayor of London’s ‘Vision Zero’ initiative, which aims to eliminate road deaths in the capital. Detective Chief Superintendent Donna Smith of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command said: “It is tragic whenever anyone is killed or seriously injured on our roads, and speeding remains a major factor… This trial will improve reliability and deliver better quality images, helping our officers hold offenders to account.”
TfL has not set a fixed period for the trial, with results to be continually assessed.
