Stoneridge urges Smart 2 tachograph action
Tachograph manufacturer Stoneridge has urged fleets operating vehicles internationally to ensure compliance with the forthcoming tachograph retrofit deadline, to avoid potential fines and operational disruption.
The requirement, a consequence of the EU Mobility Package, means that analogue and 1B digital tachographs need to be replaced with a Smart 2 tachograph on goods vehicles engaged in cross-border transport with a permissible total weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes by 31 December 2024.
“It’s essential for fleet operators to ensure their tachographs comply with the latest regulations,” said Stoneridge.
“As time runs out, pressure is mounting on companies to take action.”
With millions of vehicles across Europe requiring retrofits, workshops are already experiencing scheduling backlogs, warns the manufacturer.
“Stoneridge recommends planning your retrofit in advance to avoid last-minute delays,” it said.
“Aligning retrofit appointments with regular maintenance or inspections is an efficient way to minimise vehicle downtime. Fleets that haven’t yet started preparing for the mandatory Smart 2 upgrade are urged to act immediately.”
To help fleets stay compliant, Stoneridge has developed the SE5000 Smart 2 tachograph, which it says provides a wide range of features that make it easier for drivers and fleet managers to comply with the EU Mobility Package I standards and manage their vehicles more effectively.
While the new Smart 2 tachograph is mandatory, it also serves as a valuable tool for enhancing operations, says the firm.
“Stoneridge’s SE5000 Smart 2 tachograph offers numerous features designed to benefit both drivers and fleet managers.”
These include new features like GeoFix and position authentication via Galileo OSNMA.
“This enables automated border crossing, reducing the need for manual inputs, and minimising stops when driving through the EU. To expedite roadside cabotage checks, the tachograph features a quick input button for manually registering the position during loading and unloading. This enables roadside officers to swiftly verify compliance, minimising interruptions for the driver.”
Interacting with the SE5000 Smart 2 tachograph is effortless due to its user-friendly interface and simplified manual entry procedure, the firm adds.
“Stoneridge is known for its driver friendliness and the easiest manual entry procedure in the market. To maintain a smooth driver experience, the SE5000 Smart 2 features a seamless transition through a familiar menu structure…
“The SE5000 Smart 2 is designed to enhance the efficiency and compliance of commercial vehicle operations. One of its standout features is the ability to automatically record departure and destination details when the driver’s card is left inserted overnight.”
Meanwhile, driving and rest times can be recorded accurately with Stoneridge’s Driver Timer Display, designed to record operations outside regular DDS calculations by drivers. Stoneridge’s SE5000 Smart 2 also prioritises adaptability, the company says, with software updates for future legislative changes and new functionalities, ensuring compliance and leveraging the latest tachograph technology.
“Stoneridge has over 5.000 importers, dealers and Service Centers all over Europe, all trained and qualified to service Stoneridge products,” it added.
Operators can locate their nearest Service Centers and schedule retrofits via the website.
