New rules could be introduced for major car brands across the UK which aim to make vehicles safer for motorists.
A new consultation launched by the Department for Transport seeks views on proposals to mandate approval to two internationally recognised technical regulations.
The changes would fall under the GB type approval scheme which is a requirement for manufacturers who wish to place vehicles and components on the market in Great Britain.
The Vehicle Certification Agency outlines that the GB type approval scheme is based on EU legislation and was retained when the UK left the European Union on December 31, 2020.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
The new proposals would put an emphasis on the safety of vehicles
PA
Proposals in the consultation call for two new regulations to be included, namely R.155 (cyber-security and cyber-security management systems) and R.156 (software updates and software update management systems).
The DfT said the changes were being made to ensure robust processes are in place for manufacturers to mitigate and manage cyber-security threats.
Most vehicles are now far more technologically advanced than in previous decades, with connected cars becoming more popular than ever.
The consultation highlights this, noting how important it is for new vehicles to have the ability to have the latest over-the-air software updates.
Great Britain's vehicle standards are in line at an international level through the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations.
This promotes consistent road safety, security and environmental standards, facilitates international trade and reduces design and testing burdens.
The consultation states: "Increasing vehicle connectivity and automation promotes road safety, reduces environmental impacts and optimises efficient travel.
"However, stringent regulation is required to protect against cyber-security threats and ensure the safe deployment of software updates.
"We propose making approval for R.155 and R.156 compulsory for new vehicles under the GB vehicle type approval scheme."
The proposals suggest that approval for the R.155 and R.156 measures would fall under GB type approval from February 1, 2026.
It states that this would avoid any issues with vehicles being classed as new types when transitioning from the provisional type approval scheme to the permanent GB scheme.
If the scheme is given the green light, all manufacturers would need to upgrade GB certificates of conformity for new vehicle types within 12 months.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Aston Martin to cut 170 jobs as British brand delays electric vehicle rollout amid 'company challenges'
- Elon Musk blamed as Tesla sales plummet 45% across Europe with drivers put off from buying EVs
- New number plate changes to be rolled out this week could see drivers fined £1,000 for breaking major rules
If approved, the measures would be introduced over the coming years
PAThe consultation, which launched earlier today, will end on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11.59pm.
The Department for Transport said it would publish a summary of responses, including the next steps, within three months of the consultation closing.
