The device will be tested on an Alfa Romeo 156

Scientists at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and the University of Bristol have developed a new way of detecting whether a driver should not be driving.

The device measures the degree of co-ordination between hand and eye, and can assess whether a driver is too tired, as well as being unfit through drink and drugs.

The first car to be fitted with the device, an Alfa Romeo 156, is involved in a two-day trial.

Neuroscientist Dr Dilwyn Marple-Horvat will conduct the trials around roads near MMU's Alsager campus in Cheshire.

The car of the future will know if your driving is impaired, through tiredness, drink or drugs Dr Dilwyn Marple-Horvat, MMU

If the system proves effective, if could pave the way to early warning systems being installed in coaches, lorries and private cars.

It uses an in-car eye-tracker, a sensor that monitors steering wheel movements, and a processor that compares the two.

Dr Marple-Horvat said: "When steering around a corner, drivers look towards the new direction some time before they start to turn the wheel.

"But if the eyes move late, the consequences when driving can be disastrous.

"Under the influence of drink, the interval between eye and steering wheel movement gets shorter, because the eyes move later."

'Black box'

The device has artificial intelligence that allows it to get to know the driver.

It also acts as a "black box" recorder, keeping a record of its measurements, and could even contact the police or slow or stop the car.

Dr Marple-Horvat: "If the road tests over the next six months are successful, the car of the future will know if your driving is impaired, through tiredness, drink or drugs, and be able to warn you before you put your life, and the lives of other road users, at risk."