A recent survey by TLN in the Netherlands on the retrofit of the smart tachograph 2 has painted a concerning picture regarding the mandatory tachograph retrofit: less than 4% of the fleet has been adapted so far. With the approaching deadlines for retrofitting analog and digital tachographs, time is pressing. These figures serve as a wake-up call for the transport sector across the EU, which is now faced with the enormous task of retrofitting millions of trucks and buses in Europe in a timely manner.
Survey conclusions
The survey revealed that more than half of the surveyed companies had not yet applied for a retrofit by the end of 2024. For those who did, it was not possible in a third of the cases due to supply problems of the tachograph, limited capacity in the workshops, or other obstacles. These findings are alarming, considering the tight timeline and the potential chaos that can arise from a lack of available tachographs, parts, and service capacity.
What are the deadlines?
The deadlines for the tachograph retrofit depend on the weight class of the vehicle and the type of tachograph currently equipped:
- All newly registered vehicles with a license plate and registration as of August 31, 2023, must be equipped with a smart tachograph 2 immediately;
- Vehicles > 3,500 kg equipped with an analog or old digital tachograph must be equipped with a smart tachograph 2 by January 1, 2025;
- Vehicles > 3,500 kg equipped with a 1st generation smart tachograph must be equipped with a smart tachograph 2 by August 19, 2025;
- Vehicles from 2,500 kg: Must be equipped with a smart tachograph 2 by July 2026.
Why waiting Is not an option
Postponing the retrofit until the last moments before the deadline is unwise. Crowds at service points and the limited availability of tachographs and parts can lead to delays and even to vehicles being immobilized. Therefore, TLN advises companies not to delay the retrofit, but to have it carried out during the biennial calibration or MOT of the tachograph. This is not only cost-effective but also helps to spread the workload in the workshops.
Action required
The results of the survey have been presented to the IRU and the European Commission (EC), who are now working on a broader survey within the EU. The aim is to get a clearer picture of the challenges and to find solutions before it's too late. TLN will soon launch a new survey to monitor progress and determine if action from the EC is required to prevent vehicles from being immobilized.
Conclusion
It is crucial that all transport companies take action now and schedule a retrofit at a certified workshop. Utilizing regular maintenance moments for the retrofit can help to save costs and time. Time is running out, and without sufficient preparation and action, we risk a scenario where vehicles can no longer take to the road. Plan ahead and ensure a smooth transition for your company.
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