EU requires advanced safety tech and alcolock readiness in new cars from July 2026

Effective 7 July 2026, the European Union’s updated General Safety Regulation (GSR2) will mandate that all new vehicles placed on the EU market be equipped with specific advanced driver‑assistance systems. Required features include a driver‑attention monitoring system that uses cameras and sensors to detect fatigue or distraction, an automatic emergency‑braking system for pedestrians and cyclists, and upgraded brake‑light signalling that flashes rapidly during sudden stops.

The regulation also obliges manufacturers to build the technical infrastructure needed for future installation of alcolock devices, though the devices themselves are not compulsory at launch. Alcolock can prevent a vehicle from starting if a driver’s breath alcohol exceeds legal limits and is intended mainly for repeat offenders and professional fleets. The EU cites that alcohol‑related crashes account for roughly one‑quarter of fatal road accidents and that these technologies could markedly reduce repeat offences.