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International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee

CITA News
06Dec

Outcomes of the 14th Florence Intermodal Forum

The 14th Florence Intermodal Forum, held in October 2024, culminated in a recently published comprehensive report summarizing the event’s key discussions and actionable outcomes. Organized by the Florence School of Regulation and DG MOVE of the European Commission, the forum addressed the critical theme of road safety, with a particular focus on the utilization of data from connected vehicles for public benefit. The outcomes, published in December 2024, provide a clear direction for leveraging digital technologies to enhance safety, sustainability, and efficiency in road transport.

KEY OUTCOMES

Connected Vehicle Data's Role / The forum underscored the transformative potential of connected vehicle data in achieving the EU’s Vision Zero target of eliminating road fatalities by 2050. The publication emphasized that data generated by these vehicles can:

  • Detect hazardous areas through real-time monitoring.
  • Support evidence-based urban planning for safer infrastructure.
  • Improve emergency response by providing accurate crash and location data.

Need for Sector-Specific Regulation / Discussions revealed the necessity for sector-specific legislation to address challenges associated with connected vehicle data:

  • Balancing commercial interests with the public good.
  • Guaranteeing data privacy and cybersecurity while ensuring data accessibility.
  • Establishing clear roles and responsibilities among stakeholders for data management and usage.

The report highlighted the need for a unified European framework to overcome fragmentation in national regulations, ensuring data interoperability and facilitating cross-border safety measures.

CITA President’s Contribution / Gerhard Müller, President of CITA, provided key insights into the implications of connected vehicle data for sovereign vehicle inspections. His comments, highlighted in the publication, advocated for:

  • Establishing non-discriminatory access to vehicle data for safety and emissions compliance.
  • Recognizing the ownership of data by drivers rather than manufacturers, ensuring fairness and transparency.
  • Creating a “Trust Centre” model to manage secure data access and maintain consumer trust.

Müller emphasized that “only if vehicle testing and inspection methods keep pace with the development of new technologies can we manage risks, detect manipulations, and maintain a high level of road safety and environmental protection.”

The forum highlighted key obstacles like high costs, technical challenges, lack of standardization across the EU, and limited capacity of local authorities to utilize data effectively. To maximize the benefits of connected vehicle data, the report suggests fostering public-private cooperation, supporting local authorities with investments, and ensuring legislation adapts swiftly to technological changes.

This publication serves as a vital resource, guiding policymakers, industry leaders, and public authorities in harnessing the power of connected vehicle data to achieve the EU’s ambitious road safety goals.

CITA remains at the forefront of these efforts, advocating for a balanced approach to regulation and innovation that prioritizes public safety while fostering competitiveness in the automotive industry.

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05Dec

EC Officials Visit to See Vehicle Inspection Practices in Slovakia

On 23-24 October 2024, officials from the European Commission received an in-depth presentation of vehicle technical inspections in Slovakia, focusing on the processes and standards implemented for safety and emission checks. The visit was organized by the Slovak Ministry of Transport (Ministerstvo dopravy SR) and involved TESTEK and S-EKA, the key members of the international CITA network, which play a significant role in ensuring the quality and compliance of vehicle inspections in Slovakia.

As part of its initiative to revise European legislation on periodic technical inspections of vehicles, and roadside inspections of commercial vehicles, the Commission observed various inspection practices. Highlights of the visit included a coordinated technical roadside inspection at the D4 Jarovce-Kittsee border crossing, conducted jointly by Slovak traffic police and Austrian inspection authorities. These inspections involved portable scales for weight checks, mobile devices for brake and emission tests, and discussions on handling detected faults.

The delegation also visited Slovak technical inspection stations and emission check facilities. The Slovakian officials demonstrated the supervisory processes, technical methodologies, and compliance enforcement mechanisms used during inspections. Special attention was given to how data from inspections is recorded and used to ensure accuracy and transparency. Discussions also addressed future-oriented topics, such as automating certain inspection procedures and the potential introduction of solid particle measurement for diesel engines in the forthcoming Commission legislative proposals.

This visit underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between national authorities, industry stakeholders, and European institutions in enhancing road safety and environmental standards.

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29Nov

Insights from the CITA RAG AA Conference 2024

The CITA Regional Advisory Group (RAG) Asia/Australasia Conference 2024, themed "Take a Big Step Forward: Safe and Sustainable Mobility," took place on November 27–28, 2024, in Incheon, South Korea. Hosted by the Korean Transportation Safety Authority (KOTSA), this prestigious event gathered stakeholders, experts, and decision-makers from across the region to discuss innovative strategies and collaborative solutions for achieving safer and more sustainable road mobility.

The two-day conference kicked off with a captivating opening ceremony that featured a calligraphy performance symbolizing the unity and purpose of the gathering. A warm welcome and inspiring speeches set the tone for the event, including remarks by Yong Sik Jeong, President of KOTSA, and Myagmarsuren from Mongolia's Ministry of Road and Transport (MRT).

In his opening speech CITA President Gerhard Müller emphasized the urgency of collective action to address pressing issues in road safety and environmental sustainability. Drawing on sobering statistics, including the WHO's recent findings on global road fatalities, Müller highlighted the growing challenges posed by the expanding global vehicle fleet and stressed the importance of robust vehicle inspection systems. He articulated the need for impartiality, technological adaptation, and harmonization between standards for new and in-use vehicles to ensure safety and reduce emissions.

The conference explored three critical themes:

  1. Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Mobility: Insights were shared on the state of vehicle inspections, future challenges, and the integration of technology in periodic technical inspections (PTI).
  2. Safety Management of Eco-Friendly Vehicles: Topics included advancements in autonomous vehicle assessments, electric vehicle (EV) regulations in China, and innovations in battery inspection systems.
  3. Strengthening Automobile Inspection Functions: Presentations highlighted collaborative projects between Korea and Mongolia, as well as cutting-edge developments in hydrogen-electric hybrid safety evaluation.

Attendees were also treated to a unique second-day experience featuring a tour of the Dongtan Inspection Center, where they witnessed demonstrations of electric vehicle inspections and over-the-air (OTA) technology applications.

The CITA RAG AA Conference 2024 exemplified the spirit of collaboration and innovation necessary to advance safe and sustainable mobility.

As President Müller concluded in his speech, "It’s time for a big step forward—now." The CITA community eagerly anticipates its next major event, the CITA International Conference and 24th General Assembly, to be held in Istanbul, Turkey, from May 6–8, 2025, under the theme “Forging Global Alliances for Safer Roads and Greener Futures.”

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22Nov

South Africa Working Together to Improve the Fleet

The Johannesburg Automechanika event on 19 November 2024 provided an excellent opportunity for test station operators to engage with authorities on a wide range of topics, ensuring the effectiveness of roadworthiness inspections and test station operations. The Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) Imbizo (a Zulu word meaning "gathering of people") took place alongside the events and exhibitions of Automechanika.

CITA contributed to the event through Chantal Abou Jaoude from Maha, who presented on Best Practice Recommendations from Africa and the Middle East, showcasing current developments in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Eduard Fernandez, Executive Director of CITA, introduced the organization, highlighting its extensive constituency, significant body of work, and active task teams.

In South Africa, the regulatory framework governing test station operations and roadworthiness processes operates on three levels. The National Department of Transport is responsible for policy and regulatory matters, while the individual Provincial Mobility/Transport Departments oversee the registration and supervision of operators within their provinces. Additionally, the Minister of Transport has appointed an Inspectorate of Testing Stations, which resides within the Certification division of the South African Bureau of Standards.

All roadworthy inspection results are recorded in the NATIS (National Traffic Information System)—a centralized, government-owned database of vehicles, vehicle owners, and drivers. The system is managed by the lead agency for road safety in the country, the RTMC (Road Traffic Management Corporation).

South Africa has over 500 test stations, the majority of which are privately operated. These private stations have organized themselves into various industry bodies, with the largest being the VTA (Vehicle Testing Association), part of the RMI (Retail Motor Industry). The RMI represents 8,700 motor-related businesses serving the aftermarket sector, including vehicle testing stations. Ferose Oaten, a board member of CITA and Chairperson for CITA RAG Africa, also serves as the National Chairperson of the VTA in South Africa.

At the Automechanika VTA Imbizo, all the aforementioned authorities presented on various topics. These included the digitization of inspection reports, the integration of multiple databases with the NATIS system, trends of non-compliance within the industry, local provincial issues, proposed policy changes to include alternately powered vehicles, and other relevant topics.

Regarding legislative requirements for roadworthiness tests, private vehicles are only required to be inspected upon a change of ownership. Heavy goods vehicles and taxis must undergo annual inspections, while buses are required to have roadworthiness inspections every six months. South Africa currently has 13.9 million vehicles, of which only 21% of the fleet are required to undergo roadworthy inspections under the current regulations. In 2014, the Minister of Transport published legislation to implement periodic technical inspections for vehicles older than 10 years every two years. However, this provision, although published, will only be implemented “at a date determined by the Minister.”

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13Nov

EU should set mandatory safety standards for e-scooters

Brussels - A new report published today by the European Transport Safety Council calls for the development of mandatory technical requirements for all e-scooters sold in the European Union to replace the current patchwork of national requirements, and voluntary standards. The standards should include a speed limiter set at 20 km/h as well as stability, minimum braking and maximum acceleration requirements, according to ETSC.

The researchers recommend that national governments set a minimum age of 16 for e-scooter riders, a requirement for mandatory helmets, as well as a ban on riding after consuming alcohol or drugs or riding with passengers.

Jenny Carson, co-author of the report said: “E-scooters are now an established and popular way of getting around in urban areas in the EU. However, they also come with a degree of risk that needs addressing more effectively than today. With the right combination of a safer urban traffic environment, safer vehicles and safer rider behaviour, we can ensure that the roads are safer for e-scooter riders as well as cyclists and pedestrians.”

In national data from European countries, the researchers found 119 road deaths in 2022 in collisions involving ‘motorised micro-mobility devices’ – a category of personal light electric vehicle that is dominated by e-scooters but also includes rarer vehicles such as electric unicycles. While this figure was an increase on previous years, that may be due simply to increased numbers of e-scooter riders. The researchers are calling for more data on e-scooter usage to understand better the risk levels, which, according to some previous analyses, are higher than for cycling.

Many crashes and injuries involving e-scooters only involve the rider, and no other road users. In such cases, police may not be called to the scene, leading to the possibility that the collision is not reported in national data. More needs to be done at national level to link hospital data to police records in order to gain a fuller picture of injury rates.

Reported e-scooter-related deaths often involve alcohol, with the limited data available showing that between half and two-thirds of those killed had consumed alcohol before riding. Countermeasures against drink-riding should include legal limits with appropriate levels of enforcement. In Finland and Norway, city authorities have required shared e-scooter providers to limit speed at night, or banned shared e-scooters altogether during night hours - measures which resulted in a reduction in injuries.

30 km/h speed limits in urban areas are one of the main tools cities can use to reduce the risks for e-scooter users in urban areas. Drivers of cars, vans and lorries travelling at 30 km/h or less are much less likely to kill vulnerable road users such as e-scooter riders, pedestrians and cyclists.
Some existing EU product regulations apply to e-scooters, for example rules covering machinery and batteries, however there is no mandatory single standard for e-scooters covering factors such as stability, maximum speed and braking performance. In the absence of EU regulation, several EU member states including Germany and Spain, have developed their own national standards for the vehicles. ETSC recommends that the EU develop a single set of mandatory technical requirements, including a mandatory top speed limit of 20 km/h, set at the factory. 11 European countries already require a 20 km/h maximum speed for e-scooters at national level.

New standards should also require a minimum level of braking performance, a limit on maximum acceleration, front and rear brakes, an audible warning device (such as a bell), as well as front and rear lights, according to ETSC.

The EU has mandatory safety standards for new cars, vans and lorries which include the fitting of automated emergency braking systems that can help prevent crashes with pedestrians and cyclists. However, such systems are not currently required to recognize e-scooter riders. ETSC says the standard needs to be updated soon, as it takes years for new safety technologies to reach the majority of all vehicles on the road.

Download the report at: www.etsc.eu/pinflash47
The European Transport Safety Council is the independent voice for road safety in Europe www.etsc.eu

ETSC’s Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) programme receives financial support from the German Road Safety Council (DVR), Toyota Motor Europe, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, CITA – the International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee and Fundación MAPFRE.

For further information:
Dudley Curtis, Communications Manager, dc@etsc.eu

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12Nov

A new CITA member from Germany: Scale MT GmbH

Scale MT GmbH is a calibration laboratory based in Regensburg that specializes in nanoparticles.

Together with esz AG in Munich, their laboratory is accredited by the DakkS. This allows them to calibrate accredited according to ISO 17025 and ISO 27891.
They can test and calibrate both monodisperse (size-selected) and polydisperse (all particles of a particle size distribution) measuring devices. They can also determine particle losses (PCRF).

They have been selling their own products since 2021. Scale MT GmbH is a manufacturer of particle generators and calibration devices for particle counters. They are also the market leader in Germany for the field recalibration of particle counters (DC and CPC) for the New Periodic Emission Test (NPTI).

Please visit their website

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07Nov

First CITA ADAS TaskForce Face-to-Face Meeting

On the 4th and 5th of November 2024, members of the CITA ADAS Task Force convened for a first face-to-face meeting aimed at advancing methods for testing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) within the framework of vehicle technical inspections (PTI). The event gathered experts from CITA Members' organizations, including TÜV, ÖAMTC, FSD, MAHA, UTAC, RDW, AVL, HELLA, GTÜ, KÜS, KOTSA, DÜRR, and DEKRA, each bringing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of ADAS system evaluations.

The two-day event was held across two locations in Germany. The first day was hosted at the KÜS-Bundesgeschäftsstelle in Losheim am See, providing an ideal setting for practical demonstrations and collaborative discussions. On the second day, participants gathered at Dürr Assembly Products GmbH in Püttlingen, where they explored advanced testing platforms specifically tailored to ADAS systems.

With ADAS features becoming standard in modern vehicles, ensuring the functionality and accuracy of these systems through regular inspections has become a critical safety concern. The primary objective of this meeting was to present and discuss solutions for integrating ADAS checks within PTI processes, ensuring that these advanced systems remain effective and reliable over the vehicle's lifecycle.

Throughout the two days, participants were exposed to cutting-edge technologies and research that showcase the potential of ADAS testing within technical inspections. Each presentation offered a unique perspective on practical applications, existing implementations, and future directions for ADAS evaluation in PTI.

Day 1: Losheim am See

KÜS Drive Research Project: The KÜS team led a live demonstration of their ADAS system evaluation test bench, showcasing how it could seamlessly integrate with current PTI evaluations. This adaptable solution underscores the feasibility of implementing ADAS checks without overhauling existing inspection infrastructures.

DEKRA & GTÜ Inspection for Sensors: Representatives from DEKRA and GTÜ demonstrated a front radar sensor inspection model, currently part of lighting inspections in some PTI centers. This model highlights the potential of adapting existing tools and processes to verify ADAS components without excessive cost or complexity.

KOTSA Integrated Inspection Platform: KOTSA presented their Integrated Inspection Systems approach, currently in use in South Korea, where ADAS inspections are embedded within PTI activities. This system demonstrates a comprehensive model for integrating ADAS checks into the vehicle inspection process, offering a glimpse into scalable solutions applicable worldwide.

Day 2: Püttlingen

DÜRR Test Bench: DÜRR facilitated another live demonstration of their ADAS evaluation test bench, showing its compatibility with current PTI processes. The DÜRR solution emphasizes efficiency, making ADAS testing feasible as an addition to standard PTI checks.

FSD Charter 2030 Project: The FSD team shared insights from their Charter 2030 initiative, a forward-looking project aimed at defining the long-term goals of PTI. This presentation helped underline the future vision for ADAS verification within technical inspections.

MAHA ADAS Testing Project – Today & Tomorrow: MAHA presented their ADAS testing project, which addresses both present and future needs for ADAS system evaluation within PTI. Their approach balances current requirements with the evolving complexity of ADAS features, offering a versatile model for future-ready inspections.

The collaborative discussions and demonstrations during the meeting solidified the CITA Task Force's commitment to making ADAS testing an integral part of vehicle inspections. By evaluating solutions that are adaptable, scalable, and effective, CITA and its Members are paving the way for regulatory standards that will ensure ADAS reliability, ultimately contributing to safer roads worldwide. CITA looks forward to continuing this momentum, working with global partners and regulatory bodies to bring these essential solutions to fruition.

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06Nov

CITA International Conference & 24th GA in Istanbul

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming CITA International Conference and 24th General Assembly, set to take place from May 6-8, 2025, in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey. Hosted by TÜVTÜRK, this landmark event will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders from around the globe, gathering under the theme: “Forging Global Alliances for Safer Roads and a Greener Future.”

The CITA International Conference has long been a nexus for innovation and collaboration in the vehicle inspection and road safety sectors. This year, attendees will engage with pressing issues shaping the future of transportation, discussing vital topics that underscore CITA’s commitment to advancing safer, more sustainable mobility.

Event Highlights
The conference will explore key topics influencing the trajectory of vehicle inspection, road safety, and environmental sustainability:

  • Opportunities and Challenges in LMICs: Unique perspectives and strategies for enhancing vehicle inspection and safety standards in low- and middle-income countries.
  • New Technologies & Data Management: The role of cutting-edge technologies and data management in revolutionizing vehicle inspection processes.
  • Environmental Protection: Measures and innovations aimed at reducing emissions and supporting cleaner transportation solutions.
  • Advanced Inspection Procedures: Enhanced inspection methodologies to increase road safety and ensure compliance.
  • Growth and Impact of Electric Powertrains: Analyzing the surge of electric vehicles and their influence on vehicle inspection protocols.
  • Decarbonization: Collaborative approaches for reducing carbon emissions in the automotive sector.
  • Vehicle Approval: Updates and developments in vehicle approval and compliance.

On the morning of May 6, CITA members will convene for the 24th General Assembly, an exclusive session dedicated to shaping CITA’s future initiatives and strengthening its network.

Registration & Special Offers
Don't miss your chance to participate in this global gathering. Registration is open until April 25, 2025, with an Early Bird discount available until January 17, 2025. Attendees can benefit from special rates at the Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel, the official conference venue, providing a convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Istanbul.

Sponsorship and Exhibition Opportunities
The CITA International Conference is the ideal platform for organizations looking to showcase their brand to an international audience. Our sponsorship and exhibition programs provide unique opportunities for visibility, networking, and advancing the cause of safer, greener transportation. Companies interested in partnering with us are encouraged to explore these programs and join us in making this event a transformative experience.

Join us in Istanbul to contribute to the global dialogue on road safety, sustainability, and technological advancements in vehicle inspection. Together, we can forge alliances that make roads safer and support a cleaner, more sustainable future.

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06Nov

Protecting Public Interest in the Used Car Market

On November 5, 2024, CITA, in collaboration with carVertical, hosted an enlightening webinar titled “How does the protection of the public interest shape used car market transparency?”. Led by carVertical’s Head of Communications, Matas Buzelis, the event addressed critical issues surrounding odometer fraud, a common and costly problem that artificially inflates car values. Citing recent data, carVertical highlighted the financial impact of odometer manipulation across Europe, with buyers in some countries overpaying by up to 25% for tampered vehicles.

The speaker discussed carVertical’s “Market Transparency Index,” a signature tool that leverages millions of vehicle history reports to rank and compare transparency levels across several countries. The index evaluates critical factors such as odometer fraud rates, historical damage records, import data, and average vehicle age, which are crucial for consumers to make informed decisions and avoid scams.

Cross-border car trade, which offers consumers a wider selection of vehicles and competitive prices, was also explored. However, it was noted that this trend can lead to increased fraud due to inconsistent data exchange between countries. carVertical highlighted the importance of robust digital data and collaborative efforts among institutions to mitigate these risks and safeguard consumers.

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