Regulatory requirements relating to product liability and product safety in the automotive and mobility sectors are currently undergoing fundamental changes. Connected vehicles, ‘over-the-air’ software updates, automated driving functions, artificial intelligence and new mobility concepts are significantly expanding the scope of traditional liability risks. At the same time, the new EU Product Liability Directive (EU) 2024/2853, the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) – which has been in force since December 2024 – the AI Act and other European legislative acts are tightening the requirements for manufacturers, suppliers and mobility service providers. Companies must adapt their product development, compliance processes and risk management systems to this new regulatory framework.
The lawyers at GvW advise companies in the automotive and mobility sectors on all matters relating to product liability and product safety. Our legal advice combines many years of litigation experience with regulatory expertise and a technical understanding of vehicles, vehicle components, software, charging infrastructure and AI-based systems. We support clients proactively in developing legally sound compliance structures, as well as in crisis situations involving product recalls, regulatory proceedings, product liability litigation and criminal investigations against company executives. Through the close collaboration of our experts in product liability law, product safety law, insurance law, compliance, criminal law, and data protection and cybersecurity law, we offer comprehensive advice throughout the entire product life cycle.
Tortious product and manufacturer liability
Conducting national and international product recalls
Representation before national and international market surveillance authorities
Liability for Artificial Intelligence (AI Liability Directive, AI Regulation, Product Liability Directive)
Selection and conclusion of insurance contracts (product liability insurance, recall cost insurance, D&O insurance and criminal defence insurance)
Criminal and civil liability of board members, managing directors and senior executives
External Cyber Liability Counsel role
