What is the actual speed when the dashboard shows 70 km/h?
2 Answers
When the dashboard displays a speed of 70 km/h, the actual speed is typically between 66-68 km/h. The speed shown on the dashboard is intentionally higher than the actual speed. This is not a malfunction of the vehicle but rather a safety measure designed to ensure driving safety. The discrepancy is deliberately set to be small, generally within a range of 3% to 5%. For ordinary vehicles outside highways, the penalties for speeding are as follows: No penalty for exceeding the speed limit by less than 10%; a fine of 50 RMB and 3 demerit points for exceeding the speed limit by 10% to less than 20%; a fine of 50 RMB and 6 demerit points for exceeding the speed limit by 20% to less than 30%; a fine of 200 RMB and 6 demerit points for exceeding the speed limit by 30% to less than 50%; a fine of 1000 RMB and 12 demerit points, with possible license suspension, for exceeding the speed limit by 50% to less than 70%; a fine of 2000 RMB and 12 demerit points, with possible license suspension, for exceeding the speed limit by 70% or more. On roads with speed limits below 60 km/h, a warning is issued for speeding less than 50% over the limit. Special vehicles such as medium and large passenger trucks, commercial vehicles, school buses, and hazardous material transport vehicles are subject to their specific regulations. Speeding penalties differ between highways and ordinary roads. This setup is for safety considerations, and there is no need to worry about the impact. A discrepancy of 1-3 km/h is minimal and can ensure driving safety in critical moments.
I've been driving for many years and noticed the dashboard speed is always slightly higher than the actual speed. For example, when it shows 70 km/h, GPS measurements might indicate 67 or 68 km/h, with the difference typically ranging between 3% to 5%. This is intentionally designed by manufacturers to prevent speeding, as regulations require speedometers to never display a value lower than the true speed. Tire condition also affects the discrepancy – severe wear reduces tire diameter, potentially making the speedometer even less accurate. I've personally tested this on highways: new tires show smaller differences, while old tires may exhibit greater errors. Don't fully trust your dashboard when driving, especially in areas with speed cameras – frequently use mobile speed measurement apps to check actual speed. Regular tire replacement and maintenance can minimize errors, ensuring safer and more confident driving.
