The features and benefits of the intelligent tachograph

The new intelligent tachograph has been compulsory for hauliers since last August. Are you obliged to install it in your truck, and is it necessary to operate outside Spain? Read on, because in this article we tell you all about it!

Smart tachograph: who should use it?

The incorporation of the intelligent tachograph (SmartTach2) has become mandatory in the equipment of newly registered trucks over 3.5 tonnes. This new tachograph model represents a technological advance over digital tachographs in the freight transport sector.

Both companies and the self-employed that carry out national or international transport services, and more specifically to the United Kingdom or European countries such as Norway and Switzerland, must have this new technological implementation.

Although this update may lead to some confusion, it should not cause any complications for hauliers, as the challenge lies with the manufacturers of this type of vehicle.

However, hauliers should remember the mandatory tachograph update, bearing in mind that the European Commission indicates that the first-generation smart tachographs installed in vehicles operating on international routes will have to be replaced by 19 August 2025.

New features of the intelligent tachograph

This new version of the digital tachograph has many advantages compared to the first-generation digital tachograph, which has been in use until now. The functional improvements are:

• A higher accuracy in data recording, as it uses a global positioning system (GPS) through which the location of the truck is recorded. In this way, it allows a more accurate calculation of the driver's driving and rest hours.
• It is a clear improvement in terms of safety, detecting and warning of dangerous or risky situations, such as speeding.
• It is easier to use than the first-generation digital tachograph, as its screen is not only touch-sensitive, but its menus are also more intuitive and easier to use.

Penalties and recommendations

Infringements in relation to tachographs can lead to significant financial penalties. We therefore advise you to comply with the new smart tachograph regulations in the transport sector and to take the following measures into account:

• Driver training is a major factor in ensuring the correct use of the new tachograph.
• Upgrade first generation digital tachographs to new ones in trucks operating international routes.
• Install the intelligent tachograph in all newly registered vehicles with a load exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

Thanks to this obligation, we have a new opportunity to improve the efficiency and safety of our fleet of trucks and, therefore, of our freight transport services on both national and international routes.