CITA joins global automotive standards exchange
On 28 April 2026, CITA participated in the Automotive Technology Societies Standards International Exchange Meeting, hosted by the China Society of Automotive Engineers (CSAE) in Beijing. The event brought together key international organisations, including SAE International, IEEE, DEKRA, TAI, CQC and CAERI, with the aim of strengthening cooperation on automotive standards and regulations.
This first edition marked an important step towards establishing a regular global platform for dialogue. Discussions highlighted a strong convergence of priorities across stakeholders, particularly in areas such as electrification, connected and automated vehicles, AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability.
A key challenge identified was the fragmentation of global standards and certification systems, which increases complexity and costs. Participants emphasised the need for greater harmonisation, mutual recognition of certifications, and more efficient and flexible standard-setting approaches.
CITA was represented by Olivier Pletinckx, Technical Manager, who joined remotely and presented the association’s role and priorities. His presentation focused also on the impact of vehicle digitalisation and the critical importance of access to in-vehicle data for inspection and compliance activities.
As vehicles become increasingly software-driven, CITA stressed that traditional inspection methods are no longer sufficient. Access to vehicle data is essential to ensure effective PTI and maintain safety and environmental performance over time.
CITA reiterated key principles for data access:
- Access to safety- and emission-relevant data must be unrestricted
- Conditions should be standardised, interoperable and non-discriminatory
- Unnecessary authentication barriers should be avoided
- Data must remain accessible throughout the vehicle lifecycle
The core message was clear: access to vehicle data is a public-interest necessity for safer and cleaner roads .
The meeting confirmed strong global alignment on future mobility challenges and underlined the importance of continued international cooperation. CITA welcomes this initiative and looks forward to contributing to future exchanges.