Navigating the Path to Compliance: Answers to Top Questions on ADDW and Euro NCAP Standards

As the automotive industry races towards the 2026 Euro NCAP updates, the complexities of Advanced Driver Distraction Warnings (ADDW) and other safety standards loom large. In our recent webinar, we had an engaging Q&A session where attendees raised valuable questions about Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) requirements, Euro NCAP standards, and the future of vehicle safety.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the top questions and responses from our experts: Elsa Magner is a Senior Project Manager at Smart Eye, and Rikard Fredriksson, Senior Advisor at the Swedish Transport Administration. Elsa and Rikard share their insights into how manufacturers can best prepare for these evolving safety regulations. 

1. Are Eye Tracking Systems Mandatory for ADDW Compliance?

Elsa: Yes, for ADDW, a camera-based system that includes eye tracking is mandatory. The goal is to monitor where the driver is looking to assess attentiveness accurately. For example, even if a driver’s head is facing forward, they could be looking away from the road just by shifting their eyes. In these scenarios, only an eye-tracking system can reliably detect whether or not the driver is attentive.

In contrast, DDAW (Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning) compliance doesn’t necessarily require eye tracking—other systems can meet those requirements. However, a camera-based system can deliver a higher level of precision, which is why many manufacturers are choosing it for DDAW as well.

2. Will Seat Belt Detection Be Mandatory for All Passenger Seats in Buses and Coaches?

Rikard: Currently, we’re focusing on seat belt detection for passenger cars, starting with the driver and expanding to all occupants over time. Our roadmap will address heavy trucks next, and after that, we may start looking into seat belt detection for coaches and buses. So while it’s not required yet, it’s on our radar, and we could see this technology becoming more relevant in the coming years. 

3. What Are Your Thoughts on Alcohol Intoxication Detection? Would Breath or Touch-Based Sensors Be Effective?

Rikard: Detecting exact blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels is challenging because it involves legal considerations and highly precise measurements. Euro NCAP’s approach will likely focus on detecting probable signs of intoxication rather than requiring specific BAC readings. This means that if a driver seems impaired, the vehicle could automatically activate enhanced safety features, like more sensitive auto-braking or lane-keeping systems, to minimize risk. 

4. Is There a Specific BAC Level That Should Be Targeted?

Rikard: Not exactly. Since legal BAC limits vary by country (for instance, 0.02 in Sweden and 0.08 in the US), we aren’t targeting an exact level. Instead, we’re focusing on recognizing signs that a driver might be impaired and then encouraging the vehicle to engage in safer, more controlled responses. This approach is meant to balance practicality and safety without relying on precise measurements. 

5. Will All These New Features Be Regulated, or Will They Have ISO-Type Ratings?

Rikard: Euro NCAP’s role is to set high standards, which sometimes precede regulation. When we identify a new area of concern without existing regulation, we can create guidelines that eventually influence future legislation. For example, AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) became a regulation years after we introduced it in our ratings. The goal is to push the envelope on safety while allowing time for technology and regulations to catch up.

6. How Long Will OEMs Have to Adapt to Euro NCAP’s 2026 Standards?

Rikard: We always aim to provide ample time for OEMs to align with our standards. For the 2026 standards, the guidelines will be published by the end of this year, giving OEMs about a year before testing begins. Throughout development, OEMs and suppliers are included in discussions to help them prepare. Organizations like ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association) and CLEPA (European Association of Automotive Suppliers) provide further support to OEMs looking to stay ahead of these changes. 

Final Thoughts

As new safety standards continue to emerge, these Q&A highlights emphasize the importance of proactive planning and close partnerships with expert technology providers. Smart Eye is here to help OEMs meet and exceed these challenging new standards with advanced driver monitoring and safety solutions.

If you’d like more information on how to navigate these complex requirements, download our eBook here, or watch the full conversation with Smart Eye and Euro NCAP for the latest insights on ADDW, Euro NCAP standards, and vehicle safety advancements.