Due to a problem with GNSS connectivity, the second-generation smart tachographs do not accurately identify the geographical location of vehicles, which was meant to be a key feature of the device. Tachograph manufacturers have notified European authorities that this connectivity problem causes the tachographs to misidentify vehicle locations, a crucial function for tasks such as automatically recording border crossings.
“As this is a widespread issue affecting all manufacturers, and European authorities are aware, it will be up to the European Commission to determine the appropriate course of action,” reports Fenadismer.
The connection issue is indicated by the error message ‘GNSS anomaly 96’.
Fenadismer also notes that second-generation smart tachographs continue to work reliably for other functions, such as recording drivers’ working and rest times.
Authorities advise to take notes
Beyond Brussels, member states and transport control services have been alerted to the issue through CORTE (EU Road Transport Committee) and the European police organisation ROADPOL. Manufacturers are urging EU countries’ authorities to consider the connectivity problem during roadside inspections and refrain from penalising drivers for violations caused by malfunctioning equipment.
Drivers whose tachographs display the error message should manually record border crossings, as was done with first generation devices.