It's been more than a week since newly registered trucks in the European Union must have mandatory equipment according to the updated requirements. However, DAF introduced not only mandatory, but also additional systems that may become mandatory for all trucks, and in the near future.
For example, at the request of the fleet owner, a sensor for the presence of alcohol vapors in the driver's blood can be installed. But here the manufacturer has an interesting decision regarding the drager in which the driver has to blow.
DAF has not linked this attribute directly to the ignition key, as is usually the case with other manufacturers of the so-called "alcohol lock", and connected it to the handbrake spring lever. It makes sense because practical application is more effective.
According to the Dutch engineers, the drager connected to the handbrake is more suitable for the specifics of using this type of vehicle. After all, a driver who has been drinking will still be able to start the engine to use the air conditioning or charge the batteries.
But the locked handbrake lever won't even let him move the car into park. So you can start the engine but not drive!
Preparing to install a drager in the handbrake is now a recommended option, the listing refers to a “factory installation that allows the device to be connected”. Each carrier decides for itself whether to subject its drivers to this additional control.
We remind you that the new regulations called “General safety rules“ or GSR for short, apply to trucks and tractors registered in the countries of the European Union from July 7, 2024. Now the list of mandatory equipment includes: