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International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee

CITA News
29May

25th CITA General Assembly Recap

The 25th General Assembly of the CITA was successfully held on 28 May 2026 in Brussels, Belgium, in a hybrid format that enabled members from around the world to participate both in person and remotely. Hosted at Le Bouche à Oreille in Brussels, the Assembly gathered CITA members to discuss the organization's strategic priorities, technical developments and future direction in the field of vehicle compliance and inspection.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from CITA President Gerhard Müller, who highlighted the importance of the 25th General Assembly as a key milestone for the association and underlined the need for continued international cooperation in promoting safe, clean and sustainable mobility. The Assembly also reaffirmed CITA’s commitment to supporting its members through technical expertise, advocacy and global collaboration in an increasingly complex political, technological and societal environment.

The General Assembly was preceded by an informal dinner gathering on 27 May 2026, providing participants attending Brussels with an opportunity to network and exchange experiences ahead of the official program.

During the Assembly, members received reports from the CITA Secretariat, Regional Advisory Groups (RAGs), Topic Areas (TAs) and Task Forces covering a wide range of activities carried out over the past year. Presentations were delivered by representatives including Eduard Fernández, Ferose Oaten, Aitor Retes, Ho Sang Lee, Marcelo Martínez, Charles Ray and Jann Fehlauer, among others.

The Secretariat’s report presented the extensive technical and policy activities undertaken by CITA during the reporting period, including work related to ADAS and automated driving, electric vehicles, emissions, vehicle data access, artificial intelligence, quality assurance, accreditation and the revision of the European Roadworthiness Package. Members were also informed about CITA’s participation in UNECE working groups and European Union regulatory discussions.

Regional reports highlighted the continued growth of CITA’s activities across Africa, Asia-Australasia, Europe, Latin America and North America. Particular attention was given to the increasing engagement of CITA in Africa and Asia, as well as the organisation of regional conferences and technical cooperation initiatives.

The Assembly also reviewed the work carried out within the different Topic Areas, including research and development in vehicle compliance, optimisation of current inspection practices, external affairs, environmental protection systems, and quality, training and confidence.

Several voting procedures took place during the General Assembly. Members approved the provisional agenda, the report of the 24th General Assembly, the 2025 accounts and the 2026–2027 budget. The Assembly also approved modifications to the Articles of Incorporation introducing new procedures for handling ties during elections.

The General Assembly ratified the admission of several new members, reflecting the continued expansion and international reach of CITA. The newly approved members included CENTRALAUTO – TEKNIKA BEREZIAK, DSPACE, FLANDERS MOBILITY AND PUBLIC WORK, IRIS DENT, KEYSIGHT, MASSAR, NANHUA, OPUS INSPECTION Inc., ROAD TRAFFIC SAFETY AGENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA, TURKA and VSCC.

During the elections, Teemu Toivanen was elected as Public Member of the Bureau Permanent, while Lotte Dijkink was elected as Regular Member. Marcin Barankiewicz was elected as Corporate Members’ Representative.

CITA warmly thanked Mr. Geert Konings, who is retiring, for his longstanding commitment and contributions to the association. Over the years, Mr. Konings has dedicated significant time and energy to supporting the mission and work of CITA, and his efforts have been instrumental in advancing the association’s goals.

The Assembly concluded with closing remarks from President Gerhard Müller and an inspirational speech delivered by Sam Gratton. Participants were also invited to the upcoming CITA Conference and 26th General Assembly, which will take place in Cape Town from 4 to 6 May 2027.

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11May

CITA at the ANSV International Vehicle Safety Congress

The Colombian National Road Safety Agency (ANSV) organised the first International Vehicle Safety Congress in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, from 28 to 30 April 2026. The event brought together national and international experts, authorities, academia and industry representatives to discuss the future of vehicle safety in Colombia and the measures needed to reduce road traffic fatalities.

The Congress focused on three main topics: vehicle safety technologies, Technical Inspection schemes, and vehicle maintenance and spare parts management. The programme included presentations, panel discussions and practical demonstrations showcasing technologies designed to prevent crashes and mitigate their consequences.

The event took place against the backdrop of Colombia’s continuing road safety challenges, with 8,697 road fatalities recorded in 2025. Throughout the event, the ANSV emphasised the importance of aligning Colombia’s vehicle safety framework with international standards and strengthening a Safe System approach to mobility.

A major part of the programme focused on maintaining the safe condition of vehicles already in operation through effective Technical Inspection systems.

In this context, Marcelo E. MARTÍNEZ, CITA RAG LatAm Chairperson participated as a keynote speaker. During his presentation, he addressed “The role of Technical Inspection in vehicle safety” and “Where Technical Inspection is heading”, underlining the importance of PTI as an essential instrument for risk reduction and safer roads.

Martinez highlighted the growing international trend toward more advanced inspection schemes capable of addressing modern vehicle technologies and ensuring that vehicles remain safe throughout their lifecycle. His intervention formed part of a broader discussion on the role of PTI in preventing crashes and reducing the severity of road incidents.

The Congress strengthened technical dialogue and international cooperation on vehicle safety, reinforcing the shared objective of creating safer roads and protecting lives in Colombia.

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29Apr

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.

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28Apr

Cross-Border Exchange on PTI and Driver Testing

A delegation of experts in vehicle inspection and driving licence testing from the regional government of Lower Austria visited TÜV SÜD in Munich on 23–24 May for a two-day exchange of experiences.

The visit aimed to explore differing national approaches within the framework of harmonised European guidelines. In the field of driving licence testing, discussions focused on test procedures, quality assurance, and the supervision of driving schools. Regarding vehicle inspections, the delegation examined practices related to conducting PTI and the assessment of vehicle modifications.

The exchange provided valuable insights into both systems, enabling participants to learn from each other’s approaches while also fostering stronger professional relationships.

The delegation was led by Georg Höning, Head of Technical Vehicle Affairs for Lower Austria, and Linda-Maria Wallner, Head of Driving Licence Tests, Driving Schools and Driving Licence Law. The meeting was hosted by Philip Puls, Head of Regulatory Business at TÜV SÜD Mobility, and Jochen Krebs, Head of Driver Licence Testing at TÜV SÜD Mobility. Gerhard Müller, President of CITA, welcomed the Lower Austrian delegation during their visit.

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22Apr

EVHFCV-Retrofit Systems IWG

Yesterday, CITA had the privilege of being in the French Ministry of Ecological Transition in Paris, as Secretariat of the Informal Working Group on Electric Vehicles (EV) and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCV) Retrofit Systems under UNECE WP.29 for its 8th session.

The discussions focused on advancing a harmonized regulatory framework for the safe and reliable retrofitting of used vehicles with electric and hydrogen powertrains. This work is essential to support the transition to cleaner mobility while ensuring that safety, inspection, and compliance requirements remain robust throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

CITA is proud to contribute to shaping practical and enforceable solutions that will enable sustainable vehicle conversion approval while maintaining roadworthiness and trust in the fleet.

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21Apr

Peru Advances Vehicle Inspection System with CITA Support

The Ministry of Transport and Communications of Peru (MTC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its vehicle inspection system by engaging in an exchange of international expertise with CITA. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving road safety, environmental performance, and the overall efficiency of transport systems.

On 9 April 2026, the MTC convened a technical working meeting bringing together specialists in road safety, transport policy, and service management. The session included participation from key national bodies such as the Directorate General for Transport Authorisations, the Directorate for Road Transport Policies and Standards, and the Superintendence of Land Transport of People, Cargo and Goods (SUTRAN), highlighting the country’s integrated and multi-institutional approach to transport governance.

The meeting featured an exchange with Marcelo Martínez, CITA’s representative for Latin America, who shared international best practices and insights on vehicle inspection systems. Discussions focused on the current state of Peru’s technical vehicle inspection framework and identified key challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Participants agreed on several priority areas for strengthening the system. These include updating the regulatory framework, enhancing institutional governance, streamlining operational processes, and reinforcing enforcement and oversight mechanisms. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of adopting international standards to mitigate road safety risks, reduce vehicle emissions, and improve traffic efficiency in urban areas.

The dialogue provided valuable technical input and global perspectives that will support the ongoing evaluation and modernization of Peru’s vehicle inspection system. It also opened the door to potential technical cooperation initiatives between the MTC and CITA, aimed at building a more robust, transparent, and effective inspection regime.

This initiative aligns with the MTC’s broader objective of promoting a safer, more orderly, and sustainable transport system for the benefit of all citizens. Through continued international collaboration, Peru reinforces its commitment to aligning national practices with global standards and advancing road safety outcomes.

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14Apr

New ISO 17020 Standard Introduced

The international inspection community is entering a new phase with the publication of the revised ISO 17020. The updated standard brings significant changes that reflect technological evolution, strengthen governance requirements, and introduce greater flexibility in operational practices. The revised standard updates core terminology to better reflect today’s inspection environment. The definition of inspection now explicitly combines measurement activities with professional judgment, reinforcing the expertise required in modern inspection processes. New terms such as “client” and “item” are also introduced, providing clearer alignment with real-world operational relationships.

A key structural change is the clear distinction between impartiality and independence:

  • Impartiality is now a universal requirement for all inspection bodies
  • Independence is categorized into Type A and Type Non-A

In addition, organizations must now conduct risk analysis related to liabilities, and implement structured systems for personnel competence management. The updated ISO 17020 reflects the digital transformation of the sector. It introduces requirements for the use of:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Augmented Reality (AR)
  • Remote inspection technologies

Organizations must ensure that all software tools are fit for purpose and that data integrity is fully safeguarded.

The concept of subcontracting has been broadened into “externally provided products and services.” This now includes:

  • Equipment and calibration services
  • IT systems and digital platforms
  • Any external support impacting inspection activities

This change acknowledges the increasingly interconnected nature of inspection operations.

The management system requirements have been modernized to align with current best practices:

  • Mandatory integration of risks and opportunities into planning
  • Stronger emphasis on continuous improvement
  • Removal of the fixed 12-month cycle for internal audits and management reviews

Organizations can now define audit frequency based on their own risk profile and operational needs, enabling more agile and efficient governance.

The revised ISO 17020 represents a major evolution for inspection bodies globally. At the same time, it reinforces trust, competence, and impartiality—the core pillars of inspection activities.

These changes will be further processed and addressed within the new CITA TF Accreditation, where detailed analysis and implementation approaches will be developed. CITA members will be informed in due course about the progress.

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27Mar

CITA at DUSRA 2026

25 March 2026 / Abidjan, Ivory Coast | CITA once again contributed to the Diplôme Universitaire Sécurité Routière pour l’Afrique (DUSRA), a road safety diploma programme led by the Université Gustave Eiffel and developed in partnership with CITA. The initiative aims to strengthen road safety expertise across French-speaking African countries by providing specialized training for professionals working in transport and road safety.

The DUSRA programme addresses the urgent need to improve road safety in regions where road traffic injuries remain a major public health and development challenge. It provides a comprehensive training framework covering public road safety policies, infrastructure and engineering, speed management, risk behaviours, prevention measures, accident data analysis and other key aspects of safer mobility systems.

Representing CITA, Mr. Eduard Fernández, Executive Director, delivered lectures to the programme participants through virtual sessions on 12–13 March 2026, followed by a face-to-face lecture on 25 March 2026 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

His lectures focused on the role of vehicle regulatory frameworks in improving road safety and covered several key topics:

  • Regulations for new vehicles – approval and homologation
  • Regulations for registering new vehicles
  • Regulations for periodic vehicle inspections
  • Regulations for mass transport vehicles
  • Regulations for heavy-duty vehicles

Through these sessions, participants gained insights into the regulatory mechanisms that ensure vehicles entering and operating within the transport system meet safety and compliance requirements.

The DUSRA programme is structured around the five pillars of road safety defined by the World Health Organization—road safety management, safer infrastructure, safer vehicles, safer road users and post-crash response—offering participants a comprehensive and structured understanding of road safety challenges in the specific context of French-speaking African countries.

CITA’s participation in the 2026 edition builds on its continued engagement with the programme. In 2025, Mr. Fernández also contributed to the DUSRA training in Cotonou, Benin, delivering a lecture on best practices in vehicle inspection systems and international cooperation in road safety.

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26Mar

AI in Vehicle Regulation: A CITA Strategic Dialogue

Yesterday, 25 March 2026, CITA organized a webinar titled “AI in Vehicle Regulation: A CITA Strategic Dialogue”, bringing together members to discuss the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in vehicle regulation and its implications for inspection and approval authorities.

Presented by Olivier Pletinckx, CITA Technical Manager, the session provided an overview of the ongoing work within the UNECE Informal Working Group (IWG) on Artificial Intelligence, which aims to support WP.29 in developing guidance on safe and trustworthy AI in vehicles. The group is working towards a risk-based regulatory framework addressing how AI is used in regulated automotive systems and how potential risks can be managed throughout the lifecycle of AI-based technologies.

During the webinar, participants explored how AI is already influencing vehicle technologies and regulatory processes. AI is increasingly embedded in safety-critical vehicle systems, including perception functions for detecting road users and obstacles, planning and motion control systems, and monitoring functions such as driver attention and occupant safety.

The discussion also highlighted the growing relevance of AI for inspection and market surveillance activities. Artificial Intelligence can support inspection processes through technologies such as computer vision for automated visual inspection, analysis of vehicle diagnostics and emissions data, predictive maintenance analytics, and automated anomaly detection during testing procedures. In the future, AI could also enable more advanced concepts such as fully automated inspection lanes, continuous vehicle monitoring through connected data, and AI-based risk prioritisation for inspections.

Participants were also briefed on the broader regulatory discussions taking place within the IWG. The group is examining AI use cases, reviewing existing international standards, and developing a catalogue of potential risks associated with AI systems, including issues related to data quality, robustness, traceability, and lifecycle monitoring. These efforts aim to provide a practical reference framework for regulators and type approval authorities.

A key message from the session was that AI regulation is rapidly becoming a central topic in automotive safety governance, and that inspection, approval and market surveillance authorities must actively contribute to shaping this emerging framework.

As a next step, CITA members discussed the proposal to establish a dedicated CITA Task Force on Artificial Intelligence. The objective of this initiative would be to consolidate expertise within the association, analyse regulatory developments, and coordinate structured contributions to the ongoing work within UNECE WP.29.

The webinar highlighted the importance of ensuring that the inspection community’s perspective is reflected in future AI regulatory guidance, particularly as AI technologies increasingly influence both vehicle safety systems and inspection methodologies.

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23Mar

VERT Forum & Focus Day 2026

On 19–20 March 2026, the VERT Forum and Focus Day took place at the Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) in Bern, Switzerland, bringing together experts from industry, research institutions, testing organisations and regulatory authorities to discuss developments in vehicle emissions control, ultrafine particle measurement and air quality technologies.

The event focused on the latest scientific and technical advances in the measurement and mitigation of ultrafine particle emissions, as well as on the implementation and further development of Particle Number – Periodic Technical Inspection (PN-PTI) systems. PN-PTI continues to demonstrate its effectiveness in identifying high-emitting vehicles and ensuring the proper functioning of emission control systems. The discussions highlighted the importance of continuing the international harmonisation and further development of PN-PTI as part of broader strategies to improve air quality and reduce vehicle emissions.

The first day of the forum addressed nanoparticle pollution and indoor air quality, including new approaches to mitigation through advanced filtration technologies, nanoparticle metrology and innovative air quality solutions.

The Focus Day on 20 March concentrated on the implementation of NPTI worldwide, presenting experiences from early-adopter countries and discussing future developments, including potential expansion to petrol engines and other combustion engine applications.

CITA was strongly represented at the event, with many CITA members participating in the discussions and technical sessions. CITA itself was represented by Alejandro Checa, Technical Director, and Pascal Buekenhoudt, Vice-President Technical Affairs. During the Focus Day, Mr. Checa presented on the evolution of pollution control within PTI, highlighting its role in ensuring the environmental performance of vehicles throughout their lifetime and discussing future inspection approaches, including particle number measurement and digital inspection technologies.

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