The new legislation for underrun protection, UNECE R58 rev. 3, applies from September 1, 2019. Some people in the business feel it’s far away and have not started to investigate what consequences the new rules will have for their operations, they await to see. Others have come quite far, realizing they need to decide how to approach – and plan for different scenarios.
is it urgent for me?
When legislation is updated in this way, businesses are affected in completely different ways. Thus, everyone should consider how they specifically will be affected.
For one fleet owner it could mean the choice between placing a vehicle order now or wait, while for another it's just a price comparison between "old" and "new" underrun protection devices.
For the bodybuilder, there are completely different considerations to take. With new measures and weight for the underrun protection you might need to take another turn at the drawing board. And, which of the current suppliers will be able to deliver certified products when the new legislation becomes effective?
only you can decide how urgently you must adapt your operations to the new rules.
WHAT APPLIES FOR VEHICLES THAT HAVE EU-WVTA TYPE APPROVAL IN SEVERAL STEPS?
A tip for you who build vehicles with EU-WVTA type approval in several steps (multistage approval): By definition, each step is a new type approval. Are you responsible for underrun protection in your process and manage your part of the type approval after Sept. 1, 2019, then the new rules apply even if the previous step in the process was done before Sept. 1, 2019.
SOME HELP ALONG THE WAY
For some time now, I have been holding seminars at several events where I have explained the new legislation and the consequences it will have. Since it’s basically about improved safety, it's important for both me and VBG to take responsibility and contribute with our knowledge.
My advice to you is to reflect upon which of these changes in the legislation will affect your own business – directly or indirectly.
And, if you are attending Commercial Vehicles 2019 in Birmingham, UK, April 30 - May 2, stop by and have a look at our new underrun protections that are certified according to the new R58 rev. 3.
Welcome!
