Cash boost for Anti-Fatigue Driving System

14th Feb 2006

Over one in four of all road accidents are caused every year in the UK because of tiredness according to the Department of Transport at an average cost of £1.2m per incident.

But now a revolutionary new system designed to combat driver fatigue is set to reduce these shocking statistics thanks to a £200,000 cash injection from Merseyside Special Investment Fund (MSIF).

Wirral-based Pernix Limited has developed the Advisory System for Tired Drivers (ASTiD). The system works by monitoring the behaviour of drivers by looking for the emerging signs of tiredness. ASTiD, an electronic system which can be fitted anywhere in the vehicle takes into account factors such as peak times for sleep-related accidents and how long the driver has been on the road. If the driver becomes drowsy a unique piece of software known as the algorithm will alert them with audio and visual alarms.

Ian Thomas and Steve Field set up the company in March 2003. They created the ASTID system with scientists from the world famous Loughborough Sleep Research Centre in Leicestershire.

Now Pernix exports its product worldwide to countries including the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe and South America. Clients include Shell, Christian Salvesen, BHP, Anglo American and Fining Catapillar.

Joint Managing Director Ian Thomas said: "Falling asleep at the wheel is a major killer on roads all over the world. This product has the potential to save lives and vastly reduce the number of road traffic accidents.

"At the moment the device is mainly used by long-distance lorry drivers and the mining industry but we are looking at marketing it to the public."

"The money from MSIF is crucial to the ongoing growth of the business. We can now adapt the ASTiD for use in different types of vehicle and expand our worldwide customer base."

Paul Norman, Investment Manager of MSIF's Mezzanine Fund said: "Pernix has developed a fantastic product which has successfully undergone extensive trials. Already it has created a lot of interest from organisations all over the UK and abroad and the business deserves to do very well."

Turnover is expected to reach £500,000 this year and it is thought this will rise to £5m in three years' time. Pernix currently employs two staff and will look to take on 10 more over the next three years.

Ends

For further information contact Angela White at Merseyside Special Investment Fund on 0151 236 4040

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Picture [by Mealeys] shows L-R Paul Norman (MSIF) Ian Thomas (Pernix)

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