EU rolls out new car rules targeting diesel bans and driver‑monitoring systems

The European Union has approved a ban on Euro 5 diesel vehicles in several northern Italian cities with populations over 100,000, which will take effect on 1 October 2026. The restriction applies to areas such as Milan, Bergamo, Turin, Venice and Bologna, with fines ranging from €168 to €679 and possible licence suspensions for repeated violations. The measure aims to improve air quality in regions that regularly exceed EU limits for fine particles and nitrogen oxides.

In a separate initiative, the EU will make Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) systems mandatory in all new vehicles sold across the bloc from July. These systems monitor eye‑ and head‑movements to detect fatigue, distraction or non‑compliance, issuing audible and visual alerts. The rule covers passenger cars, vans, buses and trucks and is intended to reduce accidents caused by driver inattention, though some drivers have criticized the technology for being overly sensitive.