New type approval legislation covers two key automotive points

4 August 2017

New type approval legislation brought in during June 2017 will introduce a number of important new factors as well as improving emission regulations ahead of the introduction of the new WLTP testing regime from September. 

Some of the factors mentioned in the new regulation, 2017/1151, are designed to ensure that car manufacturers cannot get around the emissions test and that their new vehicles must comply with the new procedures being introduced from September. However, there are other key points that are not emissions-based but will benefit other areas of the market. 

For example, from September, only vehicles that have an odometer ′adequately protected’ against mileage fraud, where the distance the vehicle has travelled is ′wound back’ to increase its value, will receive type approval. 

The regulation states: ′Manufacturers shall effectively deter reprogramming of the odometer readings, in the board network [wiring system], in any powertrain controller as well as in the transmitting unit for remote data exchange if applicable. Manufacturers shall include systematic tamper-protection strategies and write-protect features to protect the integrity of the odometer reading. Methods giving an adequate level of tamper protection shall be approved by the approval authority.’ 

This will therefore benefit the resale market as the practice of adjusting mileage, or ‘clocking’, will become much harder. This is a technique which has developed along with the technology, as those keen to add value to vehicles have developed software to deal with digital odometers whereas they previously only had to simply wind back analogue odometer readings. 

Meanwhile, in a boost to the independent servicing market, the type approval regulations also include a proposal to keep a vehicle’s OBB II port open for access to repair and maintenance information. Some vehicle manufacturers were in favour of closing the port, or restricting access to independent workshops, so they could control who is allowed access to fix a vehicle.  

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) is working alongside industry representation group FIGIEFA in Europe to highlight the UK aftermarket’s position, and is continuing to do so as legislation moves into the discussion phase. 

Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, comments: ′The IAAF continues to play a very active role in these discussions, as our aim is to improve the legal framework conditions for competitive RMI throughout the life of a vehicle. We are at a critical stage and we will work alongside other Federations and FIGIEFA in Europe to ensure the automotive aftermarket’s voice is heard.’