Drivers of new cars across Europe are growing increasingly frustrated with the growing number of driving assistance system alerts required by European regulations, especially the GSR2 standards. These alerts include beeps for minor infractions such as slightly crossing a line, going one kilometer per hour over the speed limit, not gripping the steering wheel tightly enough, or glancing away for half a second. While some of these alerts are considered useful, many are seen as unnecessary, and even careful adherence to the Road Code does not always prevent them.
The experience of these alerts varies greatly between car brands. Some models allow for a more seamless interaction with the alerts, while others are overwhelmed by a constant stream of beeps and on-screen warnings. This variation is largely due to differences in how the software is managed, rather than differences in driving style. Although the European Union has mandated safety functions, it has not ensured that these functions operate reliably.
German manufacturers like BMW and Volkswagen are often praised for their more refined handling of these alerts, activating them only when necessary. In contrast, many Asian brands, including Chinese manufacturers like Xpeng, BYD, MG, and GAC Aion, are criticized for having overly sensitive systems that can turn even minor driving actions into a flood of alerts. Japanese and Korean brands, such as Hyundai and Kia, are also noted for systems that interpret the rules too literally, often leading to unnecessary distractions.
Some manufacturers have introduced features to help drivers manage these alerts. Renault's "My Safety Perso" mode, nicknamed the "magic button," allows users to silence alerts with a double press on a button near the steering wheel. Other brands offer shortcuts to the main menu on the central screen, although some, particularly Chinese manufacturers, require users to navigate through several menus and sub-menus with unclear labels.
The ability to disable these alerts is currently a welcome relief, but users must do so each time the vehicle is started, as regulations require the alerts to be active with every departure. Some drivers have resorted to turning up the music to mask the alerts when they are too lazy to disable them, expressing a longing for the days before such systems were widespread.
European Car Regulations Spark Frustration Over Driver Alerts
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Original sources:
- 🇫🇷Numerama



