2 hours agoSecurity or Monitoring? Cameras become mandatory on new cars in Switzerland
Periskopi(6 days ago)
(6 days ago)Cameras monitoring drivers will become a mandatory part of every new car in Switzerland, marking a new step towards increased traffic safety, but at the same time fuelling debate on vehicle executives' privacy.
Starting on July 7th 2026, all new vehicles sold in Switzerland will have to be equipped with driver monitoring systems (Driver Monitoring System DMS). The move is part of new European road safety regulations (GSR2), which Switzerland is presenting with European Union standards.
The system functions through an infrared camera placed in front of the driver, which constantly analyzes eye movements, visual direction, callous frequency, and fatigue signs, such as the gong. If technology finds that the driver is distracted or sleepy, it activates visual and vowel warnings to draw his attention, writes the Federal Street Office.
In addition to monitoring the driver, new regulations envision vehicle equipment with other advanced security systems. Among them are emergency signaling with braking lights during strong brakes, the most efficient automatic braking systems and accident data recorders, otherwise known as the “black engines” of vehicles.
Automotive producers estimate that these technologies can contribute significantly to the reduction of accidents caused by carelessness and lack of attention, considered one of the main causes of traffic deaths, Periscopi broadcasts.
However, not everyone welcomes this development. Critics warn that new technologies can affect drivers' privacy, arguing that modern vehicles are gradually changing into surveillance tools. Some systems may even limit the use of the media if they find out that the driver is spending a lot of time navigation on the menu instead of focusing on the street.
