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GM's European offshoot Opel is claiming a world-first with a traffic sign recognition system that will be available in Insignia models from the start of 2009.

The system, developed with the lighting and telematics group Hella, is known as Opel Eye and features a wide-angle high-resolution camera fixed to the windscreen by the rear-view mirror.

The camera takes 30 images a second and two signal processors then translate the photo evidence into information that can be presented to the driver on the dashboard.

The traffic sign detection unit can read speed limit and other warning signs at about 100m: it work by correlating the image that it sees to contour patterns in the system's memory. The system has an order of precedence for safety signs, so that "no overtaking" would take priority over a speed limit sign.

The signs are displayed as a symbol in the centre of the instrument panel between the two main dials. The system can be activated by a sub-page in the onboard computer menu. Signs are remembered, but unlike navigation systems that have a database of road signs, the camera system sees the actual sign, so can handle changes due to road works or temporary amendments.

The cameras are also used for lane departure warnings, and the two systems can be linked together on roads where there is a different speed limit for different lanes.

Opel managing director Hans Demant said: "These new features follow our philosophy of enhancing driving excitement by assisting drivers without reducing their level of control. That means the system gives drivers information, but it doesn't intervene."