Automated Vehicles - UNECE’s GRVA Adopts groundbreaking regulations

Last week, during the 24th session of the GRVA, a truly historic milestone was reached: the adoption of a global regulation for Automated Driving Systems.

This is a comprehensive regulation that establishes requirements for Automated Driving Systems based on key foundations: Safety Management System (SMS), Credibility of test methods, Safety Case, In‑Service Monitoring and Reporting (ISMR), and Data Storage System for Automated Driving (DSSAD) that will be further refined ahead of expected final adoption by WP.29 in June 2026.

This week, GRVA also:

• Adopted the necessary amendments for a dozen of existing vehicle regulations (braking, steering etc.) to adapt them to vehicles with ADS, a package prepared by the FADS task force.

• Adopted the 02 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 171 (DCAS).

• Agreed to launch work on updating the AEBS regulation for light vehicles, taking into account recent standards adopted in the USA and China for harmonization, with the aim of strengthening pedestrian detection in low‑light/night conditions and reducing false positives (the much‑discussed “phantom braking”). This regulatory update might influence the automotive sensor ecosystem (including cameras, the next‑generation radars, imaging radar, lidar, infrared cameras etc.) While remaining as technology‑neutral as possible.

Mandating vehicle safety technologies in GB type approval

The UK government is proposing a major upgrade to national vehicle safety standards, requiring manufacturers of mass‑produced vehicles to install 18 advanced safety technologies as part of the GB type‑approval process. The initiative aims to cut collisions, protect vulnerable road users, and align GB regulations with EU GSR2 rules, reducing market fragmentation and avoiding higher costs for consumers.

For OEMs, the proposal brings both opportunity and challenge. While many global manufacturers already integrate similar systems for EU markets, full compliance in GB will require significant engineering updates, including new sensor suites, strengthened crash structures, intelligent speed assistance, emergency braking, driver‑monitoring systems, and expanded data‑recording capability. OEMs must adapt to phased implementation deadlines, redesign platforms to accommodate added hardware, and ensure consistent functionality across model lines. Multi‑stage and small‑series manufacturers are exempt, but high‑volume OEMs face increased testing, validation, and regulatory oversight-requiring investment, supply‑chain adjustments, and careful transition planning to meet the new standards without disrupting production schedules.