Phillips, the electronics giant, is developing new laser technology which will beam warning signs on the road ahead.

The laser projectors work by using a rapidly-moving mirror that deflects its beam, to ordinary lampposts. These would be used to project images and words onto the road just ahead of approaching cars.

Each lamppost would have its own IP address and would connect wirelessly, or via a cable, to a central traffic control centre. The projectors could also tap into the power already used to illuminate streetlamps.

Phillips says the new idea is cheaper than installing a video display screen and safer, as drivers wouldn’t need to take their eyes off the road.

As well as providing warning signs, the laser projectors could paint temporary lanes onto the road, steering traffic round an obstruction, or away from the main highway and onto a side road.