THE NEWS
Starting from July 1, 2026 the obligation to install and use the digital tachograph — in the smart second generation (GEN2V2) version — on board vehicles used for the transport of goods with a maximum authorized mass between 2,500 kg and 3,500 kg, when used in international transport operations.
The provision is based on Article 2, paragraph 1, letter a), of Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006, as amended by Regulation (EU) No. 2020/1054, which lowered the weight threshold for the applicability of the driving and rest time regulations, while simultaneously extending the obligation under Regulation (EU) No. 165/2014 to this category of vehicles.
WHO IT APPLIES TO
The new regulation applies to drivers who, in the context of international professional transport activities, operate vehicles falling within the aforementioned weight category.
The exemption regimes provided for in Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006 are preserved, including, by way of example, vehicles used for own account transport and where driving does not constitute the main activity of the driver.
SANCTIONS
From a sanctioning point of view, the violation of the obligation to install or use the tachograph exposes the driver and the transport company to the application of the penalties provided for by art. 179 of the Highway Code.
CONCLUSIONS
The imminent entry into force requires operators in the sector — particularly companies managing fleets of light vehicles used for the transport of goods within the community — to promptly initiate the technical and administrative adjustment procedures.