New traffic regulations will come into effect later this week, which will see new speed-limiting technology installed in all new cars. However, it is questionable whether these regulations will be implemented nationwide.
From Sunday 7 July, the European Union will require all new vehicles to be equipped with Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems to increase road safety. These rules follow previous rules in 2022.
The new General Vehicle Safety Regulation (GSR2) will “prompt and encourage drivers to slow down when exceeding the speed limit” through throttle control or other forms of feedback, including haptic, visual and auditory feedback.
Thatcham Research said the new GSR2 policy means vehicles sold in the UK will use EU specification software as manufacturers seek to address issues surrounding EU-specific variants.
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All new cars produced in the EU must have ISA technology
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It would be very difficult for manufacturers to create these and prices would likely increase as they bring new vehicles to market.
Northern Ireland will adopt the GSR2 requirements following the EU type-approval process as a result of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which Thatcham said will exacerbate existing concerns.
The Department for Transport has commissioned research into the benefits and impacts of introducing such technology in the UK, with a response to the new ISA systems expected “in due course”.
If Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are introduced, consultation and legislation would be needed to change the UK type-approval system, which would likely be a lengthy process.
Commenting on the upcoming rules, Yousif Al-Ani, chief ADAS engineer at automotive risk intelligence firm Thatcham Research, said that collision avoidance is the future of safety in the auto industry.
He added: “The UK has yet to sign up to a commitment by car manufacturers across Europe to GSR2.
“The technology required by this directive is already found in most new cars and the UK risks falling behind in car safety if it does not introduce this technology.
“As ADAS becomes increasingly integrated into cars, vehicle manufacturers will need to address drivers’ concerns that these systems, such as Emergency Lane Keeping Systems, are disrupting their driving experience.”
The expert said manufacturers face a “real challenge” as they seek to balance safety, performance and integration, as well as assessing the impact it will have on motorists adapting to the new technology.
ADAS includes several safety features, including Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning (DDAW) and Emergency Lane Keeping Systems (ELKS).
Although ISA technology must be installed in all new vehicles, drivers can turn these features off, but they will automatically turn back on when the car is restarted.
Experts warn that ISA technology can sometimes be inaccurate due to incorrect or outdated maps, highlighting the need for drivers to ensure their software is up to date.
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It is hoped that the new technology will reduce the number of traffic accidents
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Temporary traffic signs and speed limits can also be a problem. This will likely lead to more drivers bypassing the technology and hitting the gas pedal, thinking it will make them safer on the road.
In June 2026, the law will be amended again. The European Union will then impose further road safety measures, including Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) and additional emergency braking systems for pedestrians and cyclists.