What is GNSS on a Tachograph?

In this article, we tell you everything about the GNSS module on the tachograph. We explain exactly what this module is, which tachographs it is found on, and what the implications of this module are for drivers.

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GNSS Module

What is the GNSS module? The GNSS module enables a connection to a global satellite navigation system, which can be used to determine the location of a vehicle. With GNSS, journeys can be reconstructed even more accurately.

GNSS stands for Global Navigation Satellite System. This module is found in smart tachographs and was already present in the smart tacho 1 and is now also included in the smart tacho 2. In addition to the GNSS for determining vehicle location, the smart tacho 2 also features OSNMA (Open Service Navigation Message Authentication). This is an extra secure signal that can provide authenticated position data.

GNSS Capabilities

The GNSS in the tachograph serves as a second source for recording the vehicle’s location and verifying the authenticity of that location. This makes it significantly harder to manipulate vehicle location data. Manipulation is made more difficult because:

• The module is housed in a secure box within the vehicle
• The location is determined via satellite
• The signal is transmitted using a secured connection between the GNSS receiver and the tachograph (VU)

Recording Location

A smart tacho uses GNSS to transmit the vehicle’s location. This happens at the following moments:

• Automatic location registration every 3 cumulative hours of driving time (based on vehicle, not driver driving time)
• At the start and end of activities
• When a border is crossed (automatic country code registration with Smart Tacho 2, not with Smart Tacho 1)
• When the loading and unloading activity is activated (loading, unloading, or loading and unloading)

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