SOME states in the US have introduced laws that let judges order offenders to fit ignition interlock breath-alcohol devices in their cars.

The device involves a breathalyser that is hooked up to the car. It will freeze the vehicle's motor if the driver fails the test.

In 2005, New Mexico became the second state, after Washington, to make installation a must after a first offence. It saw a 11 per cent drop in alcohol-related deaths that year, The New York Times reported.

Reports also indicate that New York state legislators are considering installing the device on all cars and trucks by 2009.

But will high-tech cars make a debut here?

Mr Michael Wong, vice-president of the Motor Traders Association Singapore (MTA), told The New Paper on Sunday: "It depends on the makers' mass production of such cars.

"If the European Union (EU) legistration makes the device mandatory in every European vehicle, we may see some here. But most cars in Singapore are Japanese-made. Japanese automakers are now experimenting with the various functions. It's still in its infancy."

The prototypes include detectors that read the level of alcohol, visual censors to wake a drowsy driver, and an alarm system to alert him when he is not in control of the vehicle.

In the US, a car breathalyser is priced at US$1,000 ($1,500) each.But some may feel it's inconvenient as the car won't start until you sober up.

As Mr Wong put it: "I suppose it's a matter of getting used to - like not talking on your handphone when driving."