They blend into the traffic. They watch you silently. These radar vehicles, which are becoming increasingly numerous, record while driving without you seeing them coming. With over 400 vehicles on the road, the risk of getting flashed without realizing it grows every day. However, certain small details allow the more astute to identify them.
Specific models, similar license plates, discreet cameras… These are all clues that, once known, can change everything. In this article, we reveal the signs that expose these spy cars.
What Makes Radar Vehicles Nearly Invisible
Radar vehicles are very difficult to spot. They look just like any other car on the road. No flashing lights, no special colors, nothing sets them apart. They bear no police or gendarmerie logos.
Their goal is precisely to blend into the traffic. They drive right beside you, yet they are taking pictures. They can flash cars that are speeding, even when they are in motion.
This is what makes them as effective as they are feared. Most of the time, these vehicles are driven by ordinary people, not by police officers. This makes them even more discreet. But if you know what to look for, certain details can give them away.
Common Models to Watch For
Even though they remain inconspicuous, companies carefully select radar vehicles. They often use the same models. For instance, many Citroën C5 Aircross vehicles can be spotted.
You may also find Peugeot 308, Ford Focus, or Volkswagen Passat models. These cars are chosen because they are large enough to conceal cameras while also being common enough not to draw attention.
Companies that use these vehicles often purchase several of the same type. This allows them to equip them more quickly. So, if you frequently see the same models with a peculiar detail, there may be a reason for that.
License Plates to Keep an Eye On
Another clue to spotting a radar vehicle is its license plate. These cars usually have plates that are very similar. Sometimes they exhibit nearly identical letters and numbers.
For example, several Ford Focus cars might have plates starting with EX-000, followed by some letters. Or a series of Seat Leon vehicles may all have plates beginning with FP-000.
These sequences indicate that the vehicles were purchased at the same time. If you see multiple cars of the same model with sequential plates, be vigilant. It’s not a coincidence.
What is the Margin of Error for These Rolling Radars?
Radar vehicles are not flawless. As they move while taking pictures, there can be a small margin of error. For example, if you are driving at 91 km/h on a road limited to 80, the radar vehicle can flash you.
However, at times, they might tolerate a bit more speed, such as 10% or 10 km/h over the limit. This varies depending on the type of road. The authorities have established this system to make it fairer, though many drivers don’t understand it well.
The best approach is always to abide by the speed limit. Because a radar vehicle could be there, without you realizing it.
