Author - Daniele D'Onofrio

New Version of CITA Recommendation. No. 3


CITA is pleased to announce the publication of the revised version of its Recommendation No. 3, now entitled "Relating to the Features of Measuring Instruments". This update replaces the original document, first adopted in December 1977, under the title "Relating to the Features of Measuring Apparatus".

The updated recommendation reflects significant developments in inspection technology and practice, aligning its content with current standards and regulations such as EU Directive 2014/45/EU, ISO 17020, and ISO 17025. It provides updated guidance on the design, installation, use, maintenance, and calibration of measuring instruments used in roadworthiness testing, ensuring reliable, safe, and consistent measurements across inspection centres.

This revision was carried out by the CITA Task Force "Quality", a group of members committed to reviewing and modernising long-standing CITA recommendations. Their efforts aim to ensure that all CITA documents remain relevant, technically accurate, and in line with the evolving needs of vehicle inspection systems worldwide.

We extend our gratitude to the Task Force members for their valuable contributions:

  • Kanvaly Bamba, SGS
  • Timo Kneuper, ÖAMTC
  • Andreas Klocke, QMEV (leader of this TF)
  • Jaroslav Olexa, TESTEK
  • Juan Portillo Rojano, TÜV SÜD ATISAE S.A.U.
  • François Togny, DEKRA
  • Jasper Vos, RDW

The revised Recommendation No. 3 highlights best practices for the proper use of measuring devices during inspections, reinforcing the role of accuracy, safety, and traceability in vehicle compliance assessments. It also provides clear guidance for both inspectors and inspection bodies regarding the responsibilities tied to equipment handling, training, and maintenance protocols.


CITA Rec. No. 27: “Electric Vehicles: Comprehensive Approach”


CITA is proud to announce the publication of its Recommendation No. 27: Electric Vehicles Inspection – A Comprehensive Approach, a milestone document providing an in-depth framework for the Periodic Technical Inspectionof electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

This document offers an urgently needed and harmonized response to the emerging safety, environmental, and operational challenges posed by EVs across their entire lifecycle.

Developed by the CITA Electric Vehicles Task Force, this paper outlines the technical characteristics that distinguish EVs—such as high-voltage components, battery systems, regenerative braking, and unique software elements—and presents a tailored methodology for their inspection.

It proposes:

  • New inspection categories specific to EVs
  • Detailed defect severity classifications
  • Practical test methods for assessing safety-critical systems (e.g., isolation resistance, AVAS functionality, equipotential bonding)
  • Forward-thinking recommendations on data accesssoftware integrity checks, and battery health assessment

Crucially, Recommendation No. 27 emphasizes the need to prepare PTI regimes for aging EVs, ensuring these vehicles remain safe, reliable, and environmentally compliant as they move through second-hand markets and extended use cycles.

While existing EU and international frameworks—such as Directive 2014/45/EU and UNECE Regulation No. 100—provide a legal foundation for vehicle inspection and safety, they do not yet fully account for the specific risks and configurations of electric vehicles. This recommendation fills that gap with actionable technical guidance, and calls for:

  • Regulatory adaptations to support EV-specific inspections
  • Standardized access to diagnostic data, fault codes, and battery software
  • Greater harmonization in inspection procedures across Member States

Recommendation No. 27 is the product of extensive collaboration, research, and expertise from a wide range of CITA Members. We express our sincere appreciation to all colleagues of the Electric Vehicles Task Force for their valuable contributions:

  • Víctor Salvachúa – APPLUS+ (Task Force Leader)
  • Frederick Adler – TÜV NORD
  • Pascal Buekenhoudt – GOCA VLAANDEREN
  • Alejandro Checa – CITA
  • Visar Çekiçi – Albanian General Directorate of Road Transport
  • Luis Gallego – ITEVELESA
  • Manuel Hagemann – TÜV NORD
  • Leif Magne Halvorsen – NPRA
  • Nina Kornsteiner – AVL DiTEST
  • Dirk Meissner – FSD
  • Andreas Richter – DEKRA 
  • Jesus Raul Ramos – APPLUS+
  • Georges Petelet – CAPELEC
  • Tom Polman – RDW
  • Ralph Schröder – FSD
  • Frank Schouten – Midtronics

This recommendation reaffirms CITA’s commitment to supporting the safe, sustainable, and equitable evolution of mobility. As the EV fleet grows, so must our ability to inspect, maintain, and regulate these vehicles with rigor and consistency.

Recommendation No. 27 is a key step toward future-ready PTI systems that protect users, support innovation, and foster public trust in electric mobility.


ETSC Publishes its 19th PIN Report


Brussels, 24 June 2025 | The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has today published its 19th Annual Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) Report, revealing that despite some national successes, the European Union remains significantly off course to meet its 2030 target of halving road deaths and serious injuries.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reFu58WHMj0
Animated graph showing how road mortality has improved across EU between 2001 and 2024

The report highlights that road deaths across the EU27 fell by only 2% in 2024 compared to the previous year — far below the 6.1% annual reduction needed to stay on track. Since 2019, road deaths have declined by just 12%, against a necessary reduction of 27% by this stage.

Norway once again leads Europe in road safety outcomes, recording the continent’s lowest mortality rate at just 16 road deaths per million inhabitants. In recognition of this remarkable and sustained achievement, the ETSC has awarded Norway its prestigious 2025 Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) Award.

The award acknowledges Norway’s “Vision Zero” strategy, local safety innovations, youth-focused reforms, and legislative improvements such as mandatory fatal crash investigations and autopsies.

ETSC Executive Director Antonio Avenoso praised Norway’s commitment: “Norway continues to show what’s possible when a country commits to road safety at every level — from government strategy to local planning. Their results are no accident; they’re the product of clear targets, rigorous implementation, and national ambition.”

The 2025 PIN Report presents a stark contrast between leading countries and those still struggling. While Lithuania, Poland, and Slovenia achieved reductions in deaths above 30% since 2019, eight countries, including Switzerland and Estonia, saw increases in road deaths in 2024. Altogether, 20,017 people lost their lives on EU roads last year.

The ETSC estimates that while 23,800 lives have been saved in the EU since 2014, an additional 49,600 deaths could have been prevented if progress had matched the required pace — a missed opportunity valued at €124 billion in societal benefit.

CITA is proud to support the ETSC’s PIN programme. As a contributing partner, CITA shares ETSC’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking and the promotion of the Safe System approach to road safety.

ETSC, as the independent voice for road safety in Europe, calls on EU institutions and national governments to accelerate efforts through strategic investment, enhanced enforcement, and full implementation of safety performance indicators. The organisation reiterates that road deaths are preventable and that political will is key to achieving change.


CITA Webinar Presenting Global Insights on PTI Practices


On 19 June 2025, CITA held a highly anticipated, members-only webinar unveiling the results of its General Questionnaire on PTI Activities—the most extensive global survey ever conducted on Periodic Technical Inspection (PTI) practices.

Presented by Mr. Olivier Pletinckx, CITA Technical Manager and leader of this project, the session drew the attention of nearly 100 registered members from around the world. The webinar was moderated by Mr. Eduard Fernández, CITA Executive Director, who facilitated the event and guided an interactive discussion around the findings.

The 2024 questionnaire, relaunched to gather updated data across the CITA network, included 91 detailed questions covering a wide spectrum of topics - from organizational frameworks and inspector training to equipment calibration, emissions testing, and inspections of emerging vehicle technologies such as electric vehicles, ADAS, and autonomous systems. Thanks to an outstanding response rate - 66% participation from 35 out of 53 represented countries - CITA now holds the most comprehensive global dataset on PTI systems to date.

Key Highlights from the Webinar

  • Global Comparisons: Insightful comparisons of organizational models (public vs. private), PTI frequency, vehicle types inspected, re-test procedures, and supervision practices.
  • Technological Advancements: Data on how countries are adapting PTI to account for electric, hybrid, and autonomous vehicles. Notably, only 6% currently inspect autonomous vehicles, and 19% plan to make such inspections mandatory.
  • Inspector Training & Certification: A look at certification standards, ongoing evaluations, and the growing importance of continuous training.
  • Digitalization Trends: Over 70% of inspection reports are now delivered electronically, and 94% of results are fed into central vehicle registers.
  • Standardization Challenges: The discussion raised important questions on harmonizing PTI processes and ensuring a consistent approach to emerging technologies worldwide.

The webinar also provided a platform for open dialogue, encouraging questions and contributions from participants. This collaborative atmosphere allowed members to share their own national experiences, reinforcing CITA’s mission to support continuous improvement in vehicle inspection systems.


New Scientific Publication Highlights the Ongoing Threat of Excess Vehicle Emissions


CITA is pleased to announce the publication of the article “Excess Pollution from Vehicles - A Review and Outlook on Emission Controls, Testing, Malfunctions, Tampering, and Cheating” in the peer-reviewed journal Sustainability, published by MDPI.

This comprehensive review, co-authored by Mr. Pascal Buekenhoudt, CITA Vice President – Technical Affairs, appears as part of the Special Issue Optimising Air Quality and Health Benefits of Transport Decarbonisation and is available online.

The publication explores the enduring relevance of internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) and their environmental impact, emphasizing that ICEVs will remain dominant in many global regions well beyond 2050. It highlights four critical issues hindering emission reduction goals:

  • Cheating by manufacturers (e.g., defeat devices)
  • Tampering by vehicle owners
  • Malfunctioning emission controls
  • Inadequate in-service emission testing programs

Drawing from 228 sources, the study stresses the importance of robust and modernized in-service testing (such as Periodic Test and Repair programs), targeted detection of high emitters, and the enforcement of regulations that minimize manipulation and ensure real-world compliance. Among its findings:

  • Emission control deactivation (especially in diesel vehicles) can increase pollutants by factors of 3 to 100.
  • A small percentage of vehicles causes a disproportionate amount of excess pollution.
  • Periodic Test and Repair (PTR) programs can reduce fleet-wide emissions by up to 15%, but effectiveness varies greatly depending on design and enforcement.

This article calls for updated regulatory approaches, better emission monitoring tools (e.g., remote sensing), and enhanced inspection protocols to prevent tampering and uphold air quality standards - aligning strongly with CITA’s mission to ensure road safety and environmental integrity through effective vehicle inspection systems.

Sustainability is an international, open-access journal published semimonthly by MDPI, a pioneer in scholarly publishing based in Switzerland.

For professionals, regulators, and stakeholders involved in emissions control and vehicle inspection, this publication offers valuable insights into future challenges and opportunities.


CITA Highlights Safety in a Changing Vehicle Landscape


On 10 June 2025, CITA hosted an exclusive high-level conference under the patronage of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Themed “The Roadworthiness Package and the Challenge of Coping with Vehicle Technology,” the event brought together EU policymakers, technical experts, and automotive industry leaders to address how PTI can remain relevant in an era of rapid technological transformation.

Held in Brussels, the conference emphasized the urgent need to adapt regulatory frameworks and inspection methods to ensure continued vehicle safety and environmental compliance, especially with the proliferation of electric vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and complex on-board electronics.

Opening Remarks
The conference opened with a compelling speech by Gerhard Müller, President of CITA, who underlined the critical role of PTI in guaranteeing road safety amid the growing digitalization and automation of vehicles. He highlighted the shared responsibility of institutions, manufacturers, and inspection bodies in maintaining vehicle compliance throughout its life cycle.

Stanisław Bukowiec, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure of Poland, reaffirmed Poland’s commitment to advancing road safety in Europe and praised the cooperation between national governments and international organizations such as CITA.

Expert Presentations
The technical session began with four in-depth presentations:

  • PTI in Poland – Dr. Łukasz Mórawski (ITS)
    Dr. Mórawski presented a comprehensive overview of the Polish PTI framework, covering inspection procedures, vehicle inspector qualifications, the role of CEPiK (Poland’s vehicle and driver registry), and digital tools like mObywatel 2.0. He emphasized the decentralized yet rigorously supervised nature of Polish inspections, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and data integration.
  • Challenges of Individual Used Vehicle Imports – Tobiasz Mościcki (ITS)
    Mr. Mościcki examined the difficulties faced during the registration of used vehicles imported from other EU countries due to inconsistent documentation and classification. He advocated for harmonized EU standards and legal clarity for vehicle inspectors, underlining the gap between the ambitions of the Roadworthiness Package and practical realities.
  • IT Solutions for PTI Centers – Aleksander Ćwiszewski (UNIMETAL Sp. z o.o.)
    Mr. Ćwiszewski showcased advanced digital tools that streamline operations at PTI centers. His presentation featured integrated inspection systems, data encryption protocols, automated calibration tools, and iSKP—a Polish IT platform ensuring seamless data exchange with governmental systems like CEPiK. These innovations promise increased efficiency, transparency, and legal compliance.
  • The Inspection of ADAS Systems – Olivier Pletinckx (CITA)
    Mr. Pletinckx introduced the current work of the CITA ADAS Task Force, presenting multiple technical concepts for assessing ADAS performance during PTI without needing direct access to vehicle ECUs. Concepts ranged from static inspection methods (GTÜ, DEKRA) to dynamic scenario-based approaches (FSD, KÜS, MAHA, DÜRR-KOTSA). Each model was assessed on feasibility, cost, test time, and integration potential—emphasizing the need for standardization and statistical validation.

An engaging debate session followed, with participation from representatives of the Association of Automotive Parts Distributors and Producers (SDCM). The discussion centered on legislative harmonization, data access, and future-proofing PTI methods.

CITA President Gerhard Müller concluded the event by reiterating the need for coordinated EU action to ensure that vehicle inspections evolve alongside technology. He expressed appreciation for the Polish Presidency’s support and encouraged further research and cooperation across borders.


CITA Workshop in Tokyo: New Technologies in Vehicle Inspection


On 28 May 2025, the CITA community gathered in Tokyo, Japan, for a high-level workshop focused on New Technologies and Vehicle Inspection. The event was hosted by the Japan Automobile Standards Internationalization Center (JASIC) in conjunction with the 39th meeting of the Informal Working Group on Periodical Technical Inspection (IWG on PTI), under the auspices of UNECE.

Adapting Vehicle Inspection to Technological Advancements

As vehicle technologies continue evolving toward greater automation and connectivity, the workshop provided a timely platform to address how these advancements impact roadworthiness and inspection regimes worldwide. Discussions emphasized the growing need to ensure vehicle performance remains reliable throughout a vehicle’s life cycle—even as vehicles are increasingly operated across borders and under diverse regulatory frameworks.

CITA Executive Director Eduard Fernández moderated the session, guiding a series of insightful presentations that drew from both global perspectives and national experiences.

Key Highlights from the Agenda:

  • Mr. Takizawa Fumiya (NALTEC) opened with an overview of Japan’s regulatory approach to automotive safety and its response to advanced technologies.
  • Mr. François Guichard (UNECE) presented the vision of the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29), emphasizing the global dimension of vehicle compliance.
  • Experts from KOTSA (Korea Transportation Safety Authority) shared recent developments in Korea:
    • Mr. Sang Woong Park discussed cross-border cooperation with Mongolia.
    • Mr. Ki Seong Noh outlined updates to Korea’s PTI system.
    • Mr. Yong Kook Kim presented on diagnostic tool development for vehicle inspection.
  • Mr. Alejandro Checa (CITA Technical Director) explored the limitations of on-board diagnostics and the need for comprehensive risk analysis to support effective inspection practices.
  • Mrs. Melissa Archer (UNECE) concluded with updates on the SCUV project and SCUNV Informal Working Group activities, offering insights into future directions for used vehicle regulation.

The following day, participants had the opportunity to visit a state-of-the-art inspection facility, hosted by CITA member NALTEC, to witness firsthand how Japan integrates technology into PTI practices.


CITA NewsRelease – May 2025


We are pleased to announce that the May 2025 edition of the CITA NewsRelease is now available for download.

This edition includes updates on the 24th CITA General Assembly and International Conference in Istanbul, our views on the EC’s Industrial Action Plan, summaries of key events such as the “Future of Mobility” at the European Parliament, recent and upcoming CITA webinars, regional conferences, and much more.

You will also find news on our newest members and contributions from across the CITA community.


2025 EReg and EUCARIS Annual Meetings & Conference


From 19 to 22 May 2025, CITA was honored to participate in the joint Annual Meetings and Conference of EReg (Association of European Vehicle and Driver Registration Authorities) and EUCARIS (European Car and Driving Licence Information System), held in the city of Split, Croatia. This significant event brought together representatives from vehicle and driving licence registration authorities, IT systems experts, transport safety organizations, and mobility policy leaders from across Europe.

The four-day conference was a vibrant platform for presentations, discussions, knowledge exchange, and social networking, fostering collaboration and insight-sharing across borders. Hosted within the frameworks of EReg and EUCARIS—two critical networks focused on the effective exchange of vehicle and driver data—the event showcased innovative projects, regulatory developments, and strategic cooperation on mobility and transport safety.

On the final day of the event, CITA President Gerhard Müller delivered a presentation entitled: "Data to keep vehicles safe and clean: the sovereign cases of roadside and periodical inspection." In his address, Mr. Müller emphasized the vital role of trusted, sovereign data in supporting the efficiency and integrity of both roadside inspections and periodic vehicle inspections. He highlighted how properly governed data can reinforce efforts to maintain high levels of vehicle safety, environmental compliance, and cross-border collaboration.

His presentation aligned perfectly with the broader goals of EReg and EUCARIS—to improve public services and road safety through international cooperation, and to ensure that data exchange serves public interest in a secure, effective, and privacy-conscious way.

CITA’s active participation in this event reaffirms its commitment to international partnerships and policy dialogue. As the global voice for organizations involved in vehicle compliance and inspection, CITA continues to work closely with networks like EReg and EUCARIS to advance shared objectives in the fields of vehicle regulation, data interoperability, and road safety enforcement.


CITA 24th GA : New Members and Leadership Renewed


On 6 May 2025, within the prestigious framework of the CITA International Conference hosted by TÜV TÜRK, the 24th General Assembly of CITA took place in Istanbul. The event marked an important milestone in the association's continued mission to improve road safety and environmental protection through vehicle compliance.

New Members Join the CITA Community
A highlight of the Assembly was the formal admission of new CITA members, reflecting the organization's expanding global reach and influence. The following organizations were officially welcomed into the CITA family (listed in alphabetical order):

  • AUTOTEST GROUP EODD
  • AVILOO
  • CAPATEST
  • CONTROLAUTO
  • DKT
  • EMIRATES GENERAL TRANSPORT AND SERVICE COMPANY
  • Færdselsstyrelsen
  • KNESTEL
  • INSTITUTO DA MOBILIDADE E DOS TRANSPORTES
  • MASVIK
  • PINJA
  • ROHDE AND SCHWARZ
  • SCALE MT
  • VTEQ ( upgraded membership category in Full Corporate Member)
  • ZEMIC

Changes in the CITA Bureau Permanent
Significant updates were made to the CITA Bureau Permanent (BP), the executive body of the organization. Two new members were elected:

  • Mr. Marian Rybiansky, Managing Director and Chairman of the Board of TESTEK a.s., and Chairman of the CITA Task Force on Brakes
  • Mr. Jungsoo Park, Deputy General Manager at the Korea Transportation Safety Authority

Additionally, Mr. Marcin Barankiewicz was elected by the corporate members as the new Corporate Member Representative in the CITA Bureau Permanent. Mr. George Petelet was reconfirmed as the Corporate Member Deputy Representative.

The Assembly also marked a leadership transition, as Mr. Lothar Geilen, a valued CITA Board member since 2013 and Vice President Treasurer since 2017, stepped down due to retirement. CITA expressed its deep gratitude for his years of dedicated service.

Taking up the role of CITA Vice President Treasurer is Mrs. Ferose Oaten, reaffirming her commitment and leadership within the organization.

Composition of the New CITA Bureau Permanent
The new composition of the CITA Bureau Permanent following the 24th General Assembly is as follows:

  • Gerhard Müller – CITA President
  • Aitor Retes – CITA Vice President General Secretary
  • Ferose Oaten – CITA Vice President Treasurer (re-elected)
  • Pascal Buekenhoudt – CITA Vice President Technical Affairs (re-elected)
  • Geert Konings
  • Christoph Nolte (re-elected)
  • Jungsoo Park
  • Marian Rybiansky
  • Jorge Soriano (re-elected)
  • Teemu Toivanen – Public Member Representative

CITA Activity Reports Presented
During the General Assembly, members also had the opportunity to review and discuss several reports highlighting CITA’s recent activities, strategic initiatives, and technical developments. These presentations, made by leaders of CITA RAGs and Topic Areas, underscored the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the vehicle compliance and road safety sectors.

The Assembly reaffirmed CITA’s role as a leading voice in the vehicle compliance sector, with renewed leadership and a growing, diverse membership ready to tackle global mobility challenges.