JRC supports new generation of tachographs

A new EU regulation on smart tachographs, which allow for better enforcement of driving and resting times, has been approved.

The JRC will support the preparation of new technical specifications and will define new security cryptographic mechanisms to maintain the appropriate security level of smart tachographs. This technical package (specifications and new security mechanisms) is expected to be proposed by the Commission to EU member states in early 2015.

The smart tachograph will make full use of new technological opportunities such as satellite positioning, short range communication for road enforcers and interconnection with other telematics applications (such as smart parkings or pay as you drive apps), through a harmonised Intelligent Transport System (ITS) interface. The new tachograph will also allow automatic recording of start and final location and will enable remote filtering, via wireless data transmission to control authorities, for easier detection of possible misuse or manipulation.

The smart tachograph is based on a 2011 European Commission proposal, which included significant technical support by the JRC; for example through its participation in the impact assessment board.

During the past ten years, the JRC has been providing its technical expertise for the design and implementation of this device. It has become responsible for two essential services: the European Root Certification Authority (ERCA) and the Laboratory for Interoperability Certification (IOT). ERCA generates and distributes the ‘European encrypted root key’ to all national authorities. The root key is the secret code used in authentication processes.