Europe Mandates In-Car Driver Monitoring Cameras Starting 2026
The European Union's General Safety Regulation will require all new cars and vans registered from July 7, 2026, to include advanced driver distraction warning (ADDW) systems using infrared cameras mounted on the steering column. These cameras constantly monitor drivers' head and eye movements for signs of drowsiness or distraction, sounding alerts when problems are detected. While regulators claim the systems do not continuously record or retain data beyond what is necessary, critics warn the hardware could easily be repurposed for broader surveillance by insurers or governments. The mandate follows existing requirements for other safety systems since 2024. Surveys show over half of UK drivers already disable similar advanced driver-assistance features due to annoyance. The new rules allow drivers to disable ADDW only per driving session, with the system resetting each time the car restarts. The article, published by Reason.com, frames the regulation as government overreach and a threat to privacy.
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