Mandatory safety systems in cars from July

Imagine driving and having your car watch over you more than your usual road companion. This is not science fiction; it is the reality approaching from July 2026 with the new requirements imposed by the European Union and the DGT. Just when you thought you had seen it all in safety technology, a new generation of systems comes along promising to change everything.

But it won’t be until this summer that drivers will have to consider that new vehicles will obligatorily include devices that anticipate distractions and protect the most vulnerable on public roads: pedestrians and cyclists. And no, we’re not talking about autonomous cars or futuristic science.

The ADAS systems that will mark the future of road safety

DDR-ADR: monitoring distractions and drowsiness

The advanced distraction and drowsiness detection system (DDR-ADR) is not just another gadget. This assistant uses cameras and sensors that track head position, eye movements, and where the driver is looking. The goal? To detect when the steering wheel no longer has your attention to prevent possible accidents caused by fatigue or distraction.

It is an evolution of the DDR system and arrives just as the DGT reminds us that the human factor remains the main cause of accidents. And yes, the car will have to warn you when the air conditioning or your phone distracts you too much.

AEB-PCD: emergency braking to protect pedestrians and cyclists

The advanced emergency braking system for pedestrians and cyclists (AEB-PCD) is what can truly save lives in urban environments and on roads. Based on an evolution of the classic AEB, this assistant is designed to detect possible collisions with the most vulnerable and automatically intervene to brake the vehicle.

Studies indicate that it can reduce pedestrian run-overs by up to 30% and cyclist collisions by 45%. One more step to avoid the usual tragedies in many cities and roads.

The regulation that makes new technologies mandatory

EU Regulation 2019/2144: the roadmap

Official sources from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) explain that European Regulation 2019/2144 began mandating the implementation of ADAS systems from 2022, with progressive application until reaching total mandatory status in 2024 for new models.

The systems to be implemented include not only DDR-ADR and AEB-PCD but also:

• Advanced lane keeping (LKA)
• Tire pressure monitoring (TPM)
• Intelligent speed assistance (ISA)
• Alcohol interlock interface
• Emergency stop signal system (ESS)
• Reverse driving detector (REV)
• Emergency data recorder (EDR)
• Advanced emergency braking system for vehicles (AEB-VEH)

Extension of the obligation to all first registrations

Until now, these systems were mandatory only for new models of passenger cars approved from 2024. From July 6, 2026, the rule expands and affects all vehicles with new first registrations, without exception.

Thus, a car bought with a new license plate from that date must incorporate these devices, even if it is an older model adapted to the regulation.

Real impact and perspectives according to experts

The DGT aims at accident reduction

According to statements by spokespeople from the DGT, the DDR-ADR and AEB-PCD systems represent a direct improvement in road safety, especially in preventing accidents caused by distractions and run-overs.

The DGT insists these devices do not make cars autonomous but do help reduce accident rates caused by human error, which accounts for most road incidents.

Opinion of independent experts

Mechanics and specialized journalists agree that ADAS technology represents a qualitative leap but emphasize that the driver must always maintain control and responsibility.

A mechanic from Barcelona points out that the integration of cameras and sensors is becoming increasingly precise and reliable, although it remains to be seen how it performs under extreme driving and maintenance conditions.

An automotive journalist from Girona highlights that the new systems could change the way cities are driven in, making them safer for everyone, but warns that technology alone does not work miracles.

The reality is that the combination of technology and behavior can prevent many tragedies that are still too common on the Spanish road network.

Therefore, from July 6, when you see a car with DDR-ADR and AEB-PCD technology, you know it is designed to protect you and those who share the road. It’s not the future; it’s safety that is already mandatory.