Braking that triggers on its own is first a safety matter. It is also a practical one: what does the system do, when does it act, and what is still your job? The European GSR2 regulation now sets a precise framework for new cars.
TL;DR: automatic emergency braking has existed since 2024, but its scope widens on 7 July 2026. Pedestrians and cyclists enter its detection range, and a camera watches your attention.
- New cars registered from 7 July 2026 must include these features.
- Cars already on the road have no obligation to be upgraded.
- The system warns before it brakes. It does not replace the driver’s vigilance.
What already applies since 2024
Since 2024, new cars must have automatic emergency braking able to detect other vehicles. The principle stays the same: the system spots an obstacle ahead, warns the driver, then brakes if a collision becomes imminent. Small series, under 1,500 vehicles a year, already had to meet these rules from 2024.
This first step helped reduce rear-end collisions, often the most frequent in town. One gap remained: pedestrians and cyclists, the most vulnerable road users.
What changes on 7 July 2026
From 7 July 2026, the system must also detect cyclists and pedestrians. It warns the driver first, then brakes automatically when a collision is imminent. The change applies to vehicles registered and delivered from that date.
The regulation also requires stronger pedestrian protection, including against head impacts, for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. Light vans also gain better forward visibility for the driver.
Driver attention monitoring
The most visible novelty is a camera placed behind the steering wheel. It watches where the driver is looking and detects inattention. Between 20 and 50 km/h, an audible alert sounds after more than six seconds of inattention. Above 50 km/h, alerts become more frequent.
The system activates at every start. It can be switched off manually, so it partly depends on your settings. A disabled system is a setting you chose, and it does not release you from paying attention.
Is your current car affected?
No. The regulation targets new vehicles. Owners of cars already on the road have no obligation to upgrade. If you change car, the new model you buy will have to include these features.
Must my current car be upgraded?
No. Vehicles already registered are not covered by this deadline. The rule applies to new cars registered and delivered from 7 July 2026.
Does automatic braking replace the driver?
No. The system warns first, and brakes only when a collision is imminent. It cannot anticipate every situation, and driving responsibility stays with you.
Are small series affected?
Yes, but their vehicles already had to meet the mandatory systems since 2024, including automatic braking against cars, lane keeping and sign detection.