New UNECE regulation on Driver Control Assistance Systems

The UNECE is discussing the adoption of its draft for a UN regulation defining provisions for the approval of Driver Control Assistance Systems (DCAS).

DCAS, which are a subset of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), are able to stabilize or manoeuvre the vehicle. This depicts another step towards full automation, however, still requires drivers to be actively engaged in steering the vehicle most of the time.

For these vehicles, the UNECE’s Working Party on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles aims to issue a regulation giving detailed requirements for the approval thereof. This is particularly as the regulation will allow a broader range of technologies. Lange changing systems, for example, will not be limited to motorways anymore, but extended to other types of roads, as well. Furthermore, it may also allow the approval of a combination of vehicle driving assistance features, such as acceleration, overtaking, and breaking.

Manufacturers will have to go through a thorough assessment of their systems, of the features integrated in DCAS and the entire DCAS integrated into a vehicle. Furthermore, they will have to regularly monitor the performance of these vehicles and systems, and provide reports to the authorities.

The next UNECE meeting by the task force on ADAS will take place on 13-15 May 2024. Adoption of the regulation is expected to be in June 2024. See the current proposal here.