The approval of new types of vehicles and the periodic testing of vehicles already in service are described for the EU. European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval is designed so that once a vehicle has been approved in one country, it is acceptable to the remainder in the EU. Currently it has been implemented only for passenger cars which must meet the requirements of 44 separate Directives. It is also possible to use equivalent international regulations to obtain EU approval. Exemptions to the procedure are listed. Roadworthiness testing for on-the-road vehicles is also described. This is related to the low numbers of accidents (4%) attributable to vehicle failure in those countries carrying roadworthiness tests. These are recommended after a maximum of 4 years from new for cars and after one year for buses and lorries. Such tests should be effective, simple, quick, cost-effective and inexpensive, and where possible, objective. It is considered best to carry out such tests at licensed stations, rather than at garages or repair stations. Such tests should be impartial and consistent, and not unreasonably stringent so that an incentive is not provided for evasion. Each test result should be recorded. The system used in Luxembourg is described in more detail. Attitudes of vehicle owners to roadworthiness tests are discussed. The training and skill of the testing staff is considered very important.
Abstract