A device for vehicles called an "e-dog" is becoming increasingly popular among car owners in Beijing.

An "e-dog" is essentially a radar detector, shaped like a pen or cell phone, which is installed in the car to detect radar cameras within 1,000 meters and automatically warn the driver to decrease their speed.

Many drivers describe the device as being a good pet dog that helps its owner by preventing him/her from being caught breaking the speed limit by the traffic police.

A cab driver says the e-dog is doing the right thing by reminding drivers to slow down. However, an expert on traffic management says it should be banned, although China currently has no laws relating to radar detectors.

(CRI September 7, 2005)