Starting from 21 August 2023, the second version of the smart tachograph, known as “4.1”, will be introduced. This latest version will become mandatory for all newly registered vehicles over 3.5 tons, with the aim of combating irregularities in cabotage operations and the international posting of professional drivers.
But what exactly will change with the new tachograph? Here are the advantages:
- Automatic border crossing recording
It will automatically record border crossings. Currently, this operation is semi-automatic, but from 21 August the driver will no longer need to do anything. Starting from 2024, the position will also be certified via satellite.
- Automatic recording of loading and unloading locations
The place where goods are loaded and unloaded will be stored automatically, enabling more precise enforcement of the rules introduced by the new Mobility Package.
- Retrofit obligation
The tachograph 4.1 introduces a “retrofit” concept: all companies operating vehicles used for international transport—therefore crossing borders—must replace their current tachograph with the new 4.1 version by 31 December 2024.
A short extension is granted for vehicles equipped with a 4.0 tachograph, which can be upgraded by 19 August 2025.
- Improved movement detection
It will be possible to verify whether the vehicle is in motion not only through the satellite or motion sensors, but also directly via the tachograph itself.
- More detailed remote checks
Thanks to integration with the DSRC antenna, enforcement authorities will be able to obtain information not only about the vehicle, but also about the driver.
