What is a Speed Limiter (Limiteur de Vitesse)?\n\nThe speed limiter is an active safety system in modern vehicles that prevents the driver from exceeding a self-selected maximum speed. Unlike cruise control, which automatically maintains a set speed without driver input on the pedals, the speed limiter requires the driver to press the accelerator normally. However, when the vehicle reaches the programmed limit, the engine management system restricts further acceleration, keeping the car at or below the set limit. Under European Union safety regulations, speed limiters (specifically Intelligent Speed Assistance, or ISA) are mandatory on all new vehicles registered from July 2024.\n\n## The Crucial Difference: Speed Limiter vs. Cruise Control\n\nA common trap on the French Code de la Route theory exam is confusing the speed limiter (limiteur de vitesse) with cruise control (régulateur de vitesse). Here is how to distinguish them:\n\n* Speed Limiter: You maintain control of the accelerator. The car will not go faster than the set limit, but it can go slower if you ease off the pedal. This is ideal for urban areas or roads with varying traffic conditions where constant manual adjustments are needed.\n* Cruise Control: The car maintains a constant speed automatically without you touching the pedals. This is designed primarily for open motorways (autoroutes) with light, steady traffic. Confusing these two functions on exam questions is a frequent cause of lost points.\n\n## How to Safely Override the Speed Limiter\n\nIn specific driving situations, such as overtaking a slower vehicle or escaping a hazardous situation, you may need to exceed the programmed speed limit immediately. Vehicle manufacturers design speed limiters with a safety override mechanism. To temporarily bypass the limiter, you must press the accelerator pedal firmly past the resistance point (often called the kickdown point). The system will temporarily deactivate, allowing the vehicle to accelerate freely, and will usually emit a visual or audible warning before re-engaging once your speed drops below the set limit again.\n\n## Exam Relevance and the Code de la Route\n\nOn the official French driving theory exam (ETG), questions about driving aids (aides à la conduite) are highly relevant. You may be asked about the physical controls (which are often located on the steering wheel or a steering column stalk), the ecological benefits of driving aids, or safety procedures. Additionally, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in France over 3.5 tonnes are legally equipped with permanent, built-in speed limiters set to 90 km/h, while coaches are restricted to 100 km/h. Tampering with or disabling these professional speed limiters is a serious offense in France, carrying severe penalties including heavy fines and imprisonment.