The European Parliament has approved a proposal to require child-presence detection systems in new vehicles in the EU. The measure aims to prevent deaths from children being left in cars, where they can suffer fatal heat exposure.
The requirement would apply to M1 and N1 vehicles, including passenger cars, vans and light commercial vehicles. Under the approved amendment, they would need a system able to detect or otherwise identify a child remaining in the vehicle after it has been switched off or locked, and issue an effective, timely warning to the driver or user.
The proposal does not prescribe a specific technology, leaving manufacturers room to choose how to meet the requirement. The European Commission is expected to set technical standards within six months of the approval of a relevant United Nations regulation. If no international agreement is reached by the end of 2028, the Commission would have to adopt its own provisions by 30 June 2029. It must also report to the European Parliament and the Council on progress in international talks before the end of 2027.
Socialist MEP Nicolás González Casares, who backed the initiative, said that technology can help prevent these deaths. The proposal’s requirements are to take account of technological developments, technical feasibility and market readiness.
In Spain, three children have died in the past two years after being left in cars, according to the report. It also cites fatal cases in Italy, France and Belgium, as well as incidents that caused serious medical consequences without resulting in death.
Sources: El País Sociedad.