Implementation of Advanced Bus Safety Systems for Vulnerable Road Users Faces Delays

Recent investigations have brought attention to the delayed rollout of modern safety technologies in public transport buses, particularly those designed to protect pedestrians and cyclists. A bus involved in a recent accident on Valhallavägen was manufactured in 2021 and underwent its latest inspection in March 2025, which included the installation of new brakes. The vehicle was equipped with an operational alcohol interlock but did not incorporate the advanced safety features required by updated European Union regulations introduced in 2024.

Current EU legislation mandates that new buses integrate several safety systems aimed at reducing risks for both passengers and other road users. While the bus in question complied with some requirements, such as alcohol interlocks, it lacked other recently introduced or upcoming safety features. Industry representatives highlight that with each new generation of vehicles, buses become increasingly secure; however, the transition to widespread adoption of these technologies is gradual.

From 2024, new buses must be fitted with emergency stop signals, tire pressure monitoring, blind spot warnings, reversing sensors, systems to detect pedestrians and cyclists at startup, drowsiness and distraction warning systems, and intelligent speed assistance. By 2026, further regulations will require advanced distraction alerts, automated emergency braking for vulnerable road users, and standards for direct driver visibility. Additional requirements for automated driving capabilities and expanded protection systems are scheduled for 2029.

Despite these advancements, the actual impact of such technologies on preventing specific accidents remains uncertain. Authorities emphasize that the causes behind recent incidents, including the crash that claimed three lives, are still under investigation by law enforcement and accident commissions. As such, it is unclear whether the presence of future safety systems would have altered the outcome of this particular event.

One significant challenge in the deployment of new safety measures is the lifespan of vehicles used in public transportation. Swedish buses, for example, typically remain in service for approximately ten years. This means that even as new regulations take effect, it may be several years before the majority of the fleet is equipped with the latest safety innovations. Fleet operators and transport authorities are therefore faced with the complex task of balancing the integration of new safety technologies with operational and financial considerations.

The gradual implementation timeline underscores the need for ongoing investment and regulatory oversight to accelerate the adoption of systems that protect the most vulnerable road users. As cities and transport providers work to enhance public safety, the evolution of bus safety standards remains a critical area of focus.

• 2024 requirements: Emergency stop signaling, tire pressure monitoring, blind spot alerts, reversing sensors, pedestrian and cyclist detection at startup, alcohol interlocks, drowsiness and distraction warnings, intelligent speed assistance.
• 2026 requirements: Enhanced distraction alerts, automated emergency braking for pedestrians and cyclists, direct driver visibility standards.
• 2029 requirements: Automated driving systems and expanded protections for vulnerable road users.

The ongoing transition to advanced safety systems marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to reduce accidents and fatalities involving public transport vehicles and unprotected road users. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of these technologies will be essential to ensure their effectiveness and to inform future regulatory developments.