Embracing the Future: The Smart 2 Tachograph Regulation

We’ve got some news to share that’s going to shape your journey on the roads. The Smart Tachograph version 2 will be mandatory for newly registered vehicles as of 21 August 2023 and for all vehicles involved in international transport as of 21 August 2025.

Here is a brief overview of the smart 2 tachograph regulation changes for trucks driving in the EU.

What’s the Smart 2 Tachograph Regulation all about?

Let’s break it down … Imagine a timekeeper who’s always keeping an eye on your driving hours. Tachographs have been around for a while, ensuring drivers stick to their regulated hours to promote road safety and prevent fatigue.

A Sneak Peek of the Smart 2 Tachograph Changes

This new gadget combines the goodness of technology with the wisdom of regulations. Unlike the traditional tachographs, the Smart 2 version is all about going digital, making things smoother and more efficient for everyone involved. Here are the changes:

1. Easier Data Handling: Say goodbye to those stacks of paper charts. With the Smart 2 tachograph, data is stored digitally, making it simpler for both drivers and authorities to access and analyse it.
2. Enhanced Security: Your data is precious, and the Smart 2 tachograph takes its safety seriously. Built-in security features ensure your information is well-protected.
3. Smart Tachographs: Smart tachographs have been introduced to enhance the capabilities of digital tachographs. These might include features like satellite positioning, remote communication, and improved data security.
4. Integration with Other Systems: Smart tachographs might be designed to integrate with other vehicle systems, such as vehicle tracking or fleet management systems. Although, it is always best to check the instructions booklet to see if this feature is included in your Smart2 Tachograph.
5. Technical Specifications: The technical specifications of tachograph devices have been updated to ensure better compatibility and accuracy.

How Does It Affect those driving in the EU?

So, how does this affect our Alltruck customers? Well, it’s all about staying ahead of the curve. If you’re thinking of getting a new vehicle, you’ll be expected to have the Smart 2 automatically in your vehicle if you will be driving in the EU. These tachographs will be standard in all new EU-registered vehicles. And you know what that means? More efficient data management, less hassle, and greater road safety.

Driving in the EU: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re delivering goods in the EU or a haulier in the EU, the Smart 2 tachograph is here to make your journey even smoother. This new regulation is designed to ensure fair competition, safer roads, and a level playing field for everyone. So, if you’re driving in the EU, keep in mind that the Smart 2 tachograph is now a part of the driving landscape. Changes in regulations could also impact how violations of tachograph regulations are enforced and what penalties might be imposed for non-compliance.

Let’s Sum Up…

It’s mandatory in all new vehicles travelling within the EU from 21^st August 2023, to have a Smart tachograph version 2. For Alltruck customers, this means embracing technology that simplifies your journeys and enhances road safety. For those navigating the EU’s roads, get ready to welcome a digital companion that’s all about making driving smarter, safer, and more efficient.

FAQs

My vehicles only operate within the UK, do I need to do anything?

No changes currently, a smart tachograph 1 can continue to be fitted & used on or after 21^st August 2023.

What kind of tachograph can be used for UK operations after 31 December 2024?

The vehicle can still use the original digital or analogue tachograph that has been fitted.

What tachograph must be fitted into newly registered in-scope vehicles after 21 February 2024?

A ‘full’ smart tachograph 2 or ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2 must be fitted.

When must a ‘full’ smart tachograph 2 or ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2 be fitted for newly registered goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes with international journeys for hire and reward?

On or after 1 July 2026.

Are there exceptions for fitting a tachograph for international journeys undertaken by drivers or companies?

Yes, if the vehicle is undertaking an international journey for the driver or company’s own account and driving is not the main activity of the driver, there is no requirement to fit a tachograph.

Is there a tachograph fitting requirement for UK operations of vehicles weighing over 2.5 tonnes but less than 3.5 tonnes?

No, if the vehicle weighs over 2.5 tonnes and less than 3.5 tonnes and is operating only within the UK, there is no requirement to fit a tachograph into the vehicle.

What happens if my tachograph is faulty or breaks?

For vehicles undertaking international journeys, it is recommended that a faulty SMART1 (1C) tachograph be replaced with a SMART2 tachograph or ‘transitional’ SMART2 tachograph 2 from 21 August 2023.

If you have any further questions or would like to understand if these regulations affect your business & and trucks, email our friendly team at enquiries@alltruckplc.co.uk.