Europe mandates in-car cameras for every new car. Under the European Union’s expanded General Safety Regulation (GSR2), every new car sold across the region must now feature an Advanced Driver Distraction Warning system. In simple terms, your car will be watching you.
There will be an infrared camera, typically mounted on the steering column or dashboard, constantly tracking your eyes and facial movement once the car exceeds 20 km/h (12 mph). Look away for too long—say, at your phone or even the infotainment screen—and the system responds instantly. Chimes, vibrations, escalating alerts designed to get your attention back to the road.
On paper, it’s hard to argue with the intent. Regulators estimate the technology could save up to 25,000 lives by 2038. That’s significant. Modern performance cars are faster and more capable than ever, and keeping drivers focused is crucial.
But the reality feels more complicated. Driving has always been personal—an experience, not just a task to get from point A to B. The idea of mandated in-car cameras constantly observing you raises valid concerns. Privacy, data security, and even the potential for over-sensitive warnings all come into play.
Manufacturers insist all data remains within the vehicle, processed locally. Still, past controversies around data sharing leave room for doubt.
Source: The Drive
