What is a Smart Tacho 2?

In this article, we explain what a Smart Tacho 2 is, what changes with the introduction of this new tachograph, which new features to expect, and which deadlines you need to be aware of.

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Smart Tachograph

The Smart Tacho 2 is the second version of the smart tachograph. The digital tachograph was the predecessor of the smart tachograph. The first smart tachograph (Smart Tacho 1) became mandatory on 15 June 2019. All vehicles registered after that date had to be equipped with a Smart Tacho 1. It is called ‘smart’ because it includes new features not found in older models, such as GNSS, DSRC, and ITS. These functionalities make tachograph manipulation even more difficult.

Retrofit Deadlines

The Smart Tacho 2 will soon be mandatory for all internationally operating vehicles. Replacing the old tachograph with the new one is known as the retrofit. The retrofit deadlines are:

• Analogue tachograph: by 31 December 2024.
• Digital tachograph: by 31 December 2024.
• Smart Tacho 1: by 18 August 2025.

As of 1 July 2026, the Smart Tacho 2 will also be mandatory for internationally operating vehicles from 2.5 tonnes (currently 3.5 tonnes). It is already mandatory for vehicles registered after 21 August 2023.

New Features of the Smart Tacho 2

The Smart Tacho 2 introduces several new features:

• Automatic country code registration
• New loading and unloading function
• Extended inspection period from 28 to 56 days
• Enhanced GNSS signal security
• Improved DSRC module
• Built-in Bluetooth via ITS interface

Automatic Country Code Registration

The most notable new feature is the automatic registration of the country code at border crossings. The country code still needs to be entered manually at the start and end of a shift, but when crossing a national border, this now happens automatically. With a Smart Tacho 1, the tachograph suggests the country, but this suggestion still had to be confirmed manually.

Loading and Unloading Function

The loading and unloading function allows you to indicate whether you are loading and/or unloading. When activated, the vehicle’s location is automatically recorded. There is no law requiring the use of this function, but correctly recording your activities is mandatory.

From 28 to 56 Days

The Mobility Package has been updated: during a roadside inspection, more days are now reviewed. Previously, 28 days were checked; as of 31 December 2024, this has been extended to 56 days.

GNSS Module

The Smart Tacho 2 features an improved GNSS module (Global Navigation Satellite System). This signal records the vehicle’s location every 3 hours and when the driver card is inserted or removed, making manipulation even harder.

DSRC Module

The DSRC module (Dedicated Short Range Communication) allows inspectors to read tachograph data remotely. The second version enables inspectors to check more data remotely than the first version.

Bluetooth

The Smart Tacho 2 can be connected via Bluetooth through the ITS interface. Since 2012, VDO tachographs could already be operated via Bluetooth, but separate hardware was required. This is now built in as standard.

Watch the Smart Tacho 2 video on the Roadsoft Academy.