Chinese authorities are experimenting with powerful laser installations on motorways to prevent drivers from falling asleep at the wheel.
Last year, social media was filled with clips of colorful laser beams projected from motorway signs in China. These beams, resembling a light show more suited to a rave, sparked curiosity about their purpose. It turns out, these laser installations are part of a trial to keep drivers, particularly truck drivers, alert on long journeys. The most viewed clip was filmed on the 1,600-kilometer Qingdao–Yinchuan Expressway, a route predominantly used by heavy trucks traveling between Ningxia’s capital and the port city of Qingdao.
One viral post on X quoted Mr. Li, who filmed the lasers, saying, “These laser lights designed to combat fatigue quickly revitalized him and reduced his exhaustion during a prolonged nighttime drive.” Despite this positive test, many drivers were not convinced.
Feedback on the laser lights varied. Some drivers found the lights too distracting, while others feared they might trigger epilepsy seizures rather than prevent drowsiness. One commenter remarked, “This would distract me.”
Another user humorously but critically added, “Who’s genius idea is it to blind the drivers? Congrats, those who aren’t sleepy are now disoriented. My autistic ass would crash the car within 5 seconds.”
The future of this laser system remains uncertain. It is unclear if the trials are ongoing or if Chinese authorities will officially implement this project.
Nonetheless, the controversy surrounding these motorway laser lights continues to make headlines.