MEP Lena Düpont (PPE) has asked the European Commission whether mandatory driver assistance systems introduced under Regulation (EU) 2019/2144 can interfere with emergency-response driving, potentially delaying critical operations. In a written parliamentary question on 22 June 2026, Düpont raised concerns from emergency organisations that systems such as automatic braking or lane-keeping assist may hinder emergency vehicles during authorised operations.
The question seeks to know if the Commission is aware of such reports, whether it has assessed if the current regulation adequately addresses the operational needs of emergency vehicles, and whether it plans to introduce harmonised exemptions or emergency-response modes that allow certain systems to be deactivated or adapted during emergency operations.
Düpont's question reflects a tension between road safety objectives and the operational requirements of emergency services. While the regulation aims to reduce accidents through mandatory assistance systems, emergency organisations argue that these systems can delay response times, potentially endangering lives. The MEP's initiative pushes for a regulatory adjustment that would balance safety with the need for unhindered emergency driving.
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal whether it is open to amending the regulation or introducing exemptions for emergency vehicles. Such a move would impact vehicle manufacturers, who may need to develop emergency-specific software modes, and emergency services, who would gain operational flexibility. National authorities would also be affected if harmonised rules replace current patchwork exemptions.