The European Union’s new General Safety Regulation, also known as GSR2, has been a hot topic in recent months as it applies to all new cars sold in the EU. The regulation aims to enhance road safety by mandating the inclusion of safety-centric technologies in vehicles and laying the groundwork for the introduction of autonomous vehicles on EU roads.
Introduced in 2019 and first implemented in 2022, the General Safety Regulation requires car manufacturers to incorporate specific technologies in their vehicles to improve safety standards. The ultimate goal is to save 25,000 lives and prevent 140,000 serious injuries on EU roads. Some of the mandated technologies include Intelligent Speed Assistance, Reversing Detection with cameras and/or sensors, Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warnings, Emergency Lane-Keeping Systems, Automated Braking, Emergency Stop Signals, and Event Data Recorders.
Since July 2022, all vehicles undergoing type approval must feature these legislated technologies to be considered roadworthy. The second phase of the regulation, which commenced in July 2024, requires all new cars sold to include these technologies, regardless of when they underwent type approval. Between 2024 and 2029, new vehicles must also be equipped with an advanced driver distraction warning system, improved safety glass, and safer, longer-lasting tires.
These new technologies are designed to enhance the safety of drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians on the road. While some technologies like reversing sensors and cameras are already common, others such as driver drowsiness and attention warnings are less prevalent. The implementation of these technologies aims to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety.
In addition to improving vehicle safety, the General Safety Regulation also addresses autonomous performance. The European Commission has adopted technical rules for automated and connected vehicles, focusing mainly on autonomous vehicles operating on motorways at SAE Level 3 and above. These rules align EU legislation with new UN rules on level 3 automation and establish guidelines for testing procedures, cybersecurity requirements, and data recording rules for fully automated vehicles.
While the General Safety Regulation currently only applies to EU member states, the rollout of vehicles equipped with these technologies is expected to extend beyond EU borders. Manufacturers are likely to provide vehicles with the mandated safety technologies to all European markets to streamline production and enhance safety standards continent-wide.
In conclusion, the General Safety Regulation represents a significant step towards improving road safety in the EU and beyond. By mandating the inclusion of advanced safety technologies in new vehicles, the regulation aims to save lives, prevent injuries, and enhance overall road safety for all road users. The world of fashion is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging every season. From bold prints to minimalist designs, there is always something new and exciting to look forward to in the fashion industry. With the rise of sustainable fashion and a greater focus on ethical practices, there are also significant changes taking place within the industry.
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