EU mandates driver monitoring cameras in all new cars
Original: Every new car sold in the European Union must include a driver monitoring camera
Why This Matters
The mandate accelerates adoption of in-cabin AI sensing technology across the global automotive industry.
The European Union now requires all new cars sold within its member states to include a driver monitoring camera system, aimed at reducing road accidents caused by distraction or drowsiness.
The European Union has implemented a regulation requiring driver monitoring systems (DMS) in all newly sold vehicles across its member states. These camera-based systems are designed to detect signs of driver distraction, drowsiness, or inattention, and alert the driver accordingly. The mandate is part of the EU's broader General Safety Regulation (GSR), which came into force to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities. The regulation targets Vision Zero — the EU's goal of eliminating road deaths by 2050. Driver monitoring cameras typically use infrared sensors to track eye movement, head position, and facial expressions in real time. The requirement applies to new vehicle type approvals, meaning automakers must integrate compliant DMS technology into their designs to sell vehicles in the EU market.