European periodic and roadside testing proposals

 The EU sets high standards for the vehicles on its roads and it has long recognised regular testing of vehicles as a key element in maintaining these standards. The EU has legislated on vehicle approval since the late 1970s and its laws in the area were revised extensively in 1996. Recent years have seen further modifications to this legislation and the European Commission has now drawn up a proposal for a new legislative package on roadworthiness testing. This is due to be submitted to the European Parliament and Council in the near future.

Furthermore, the Commission has made improving safety of vehicles of both today and tomorrow a main aim of its road safety policy orientations for 2011-20. A key action within this is provision of proposals for progressive harmonisation and strengthening of periodic tests and technical roadside inspections. The upcoming package is therefore in line with the Commission’s overall orientations.

The Commission White Paper on transport which sets out its roadmap towards a single European transport area likewise recognises the importance of roadworthiness tests. Improved testing adapted to new technologies is one of the key initiatives outlined in the Paper. Today, roadworthiness testing is more important than ever

due to the increasing role of new technologies in the functioning of vehicles. The prominent place given to testing by the Commission in its road safety policy is thus very timely.