Starting in 2024, new vehicles in the EU will be required to include Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems. These systems are designed to intervene when the speed limit is exceeded; alcohol interlocks are also under consideration in the EU regulation.
The recently adopted Regulation (EU) 2019/2144 sets out the technical features that new cars must incorporate in order to be registered in the European Union. The current regulation includes provisions for Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA), tire pressure monitoring systems, and warning systems designed to detect signs of driver fatigue.
In addition to these systems, which are already installed in many vehicles today, the regulation—which takes effect in 2024—also requires a device for retrofitting an alcohol ignition interlock.
For example, if the maximum speed limit is exceeded, the system should first provide haptic feedback and apply a kind of counterpressure to the pedal.
Overall, the regulations provide for three warning options: cascading sounds, cascading vibrations, or “haptic feedback via the accelerator pedal.” However, speeders can still breathe a sigh of relief. While the regulation stipulates that the systems must be automatically activated at the start of every trip, the EU also specifies that the system must not restrict the driver’s ability to drive faster than permitted.
The regulation also addresses the issue of data protection: the assistants’ data may not be made available to third parties and must remain within a closed system. However, it remains unclear whether the police are permitted to access the data during a routine check.
