Smart Tachograph 2: What the August 2025 Deadline Means for Fleet Operators

From 19 August 2025, UK hauliers involved in international transport must have updated digital tachographs, replacing the first-generation Smart Tachograph (SMT1) with Smart Tachograph 2 (SMT2). This new generation of digital tachographs have been designed to improve compliance, monitoring and road safety.

If your fleet currently uses vehicles equipped with the first-generation Smart Tachograph (SMT1), or if you’re operating cross-border in vehicles over 2.5 tonnes, now is the time to make the change.

What’s Changing?

Smart tachographs are used to record drivers’ hours, rest periods, and other key operational data to ensure that working time regulations are met.

Since 2019, newly registered vehicles used for international transport have been fitted with SMT1 and from August 2025 the European Union Mobility Package mandates that these older devices must be replaced with SMT2 units to meet the latest standards.

The SMT2 provides real-time data, enhanced security and some automated features which support local and border enforcement agencies.

Key Deadline Dates

The rollout of Smart Tachograph 2 is happening in two phases:

• 19 August 2025: All vehicles already fitted with SMT1 and used for international work must be upgraded to SMT2.
• 1 July 2026: All newly registered vehicles over 2.5 tonnes used in international transport must be fitted with SMT2 at the point of registration.

These deadlines apply to fleets operating internationally and domestic-only vehicles are not currently required to make this upgrade.

What is Smart Tachograph 2 (SMT2)?

SMT2 is the next generation of digital tachograph technology designed for international haulage and fleet compliance. Key features include:

• Automatic Border Detection: Records border crossings without driver input
• Activity Tracking: Logs loading and unloading activities for a clearer operational view
• Remote Data Access: Enables authorities to check compliance remotely
• Improved Data Security: Strong encryption prevents tampering and unauthorised access

These changes are designed to make fleet operations smoother and enforcement more effective across different countries.

Why Fleet Operators Must Act Now

For international fleet managers, upgrading to a Smart Tachograph 2 is mandatory but it also offers some key benefits:

• Driver safety: Reduces fatigue risks by ensuring accurate work/rest records
• Operational efficiency: Less manual data entry means more time on the road
• Legal compliance: Stay aligned with EU-wide standards and avoid penalties

How to Prepare your Fleet for the SMT2 Transition

Upgrading your tachographs will require planning. Here’s how to get ready:

1. Audit your vehicles: Identify which ones are currently fitted with SMT1 and are used internationally.
2. Plan ahead: Alltruck workshops will get busier as the deadline approaches so we recommend scheduling installations as soon as possible.
3. Train your drivers and staff: Educate drivers and admin staff on SMTT2 features and protocols
4. Speak to Alltruck: Our experts will guide your fleet through the change with minimal disruption.

Stay Compliant with Alltruck plc

Whether you need long-term contract hire or short-term truck rental during the upgrade period, Alltruck plc is here to support your fleet’s transition to SMT2.

Our team offers hands-on assistance to keep your operations moving and compliant, so you can focus on your operations.

enquiries@alltruckplc.co.uk | 0116 402 1800