GPS tracking device alerts parents when their P-plater children are driving too fast

A device described as a ‘black box for the car’ is allowing parents to keep a close eye on their children while they’re behind the wheel.

The TomTom LINK 530 allows parents to see how fast a car is going, how often it is braking and if it is swerving – all through an app on their phones.

Jon Butler of GPS Gateway, who helped create the device, told A Current Affair young drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes.

‘They make up around 10-15 per cent of all drivers but around 32 per cent of all fatalities, so anything we can do to get young drivers to slow down and obey the speed limits is a good thing.’

The device is being trialled by the New South Wales government with 1000 young drivers and their parents.

Finance Minister Victor Dominello said the device will save lives.

The information collected by the device is intended to be used by parents rather than police.

The device’s creators say the idea is for parents to then talk to their children about their driving habits.

Teenage driver Lochie has had his licence for about six months, and uses the device while behind the wheel.

The TomTom LINK 530 allows parents to see how fast a car is going, how often it is braking and if it is swerving through an app on their phones

He said although it sometimes makes him feel uncomfortable he said it was a clever idea.

‘It does have the ability to look at everything you’re doing, but I think it is better to be truthful and have that truthful relationship with your parents at all times.’

Jack, another young driver, said the device was helpful, as it beeped when he was going too fast or braking too harshly.

His mother Renee said the device gave her peace of mind while her son was driving.

The device is being trialled by the New South Wales government with 1000 young drivers and their parents