Roadworthiness tests for vehicles, speed limitation devices (consol. and amend. Directive 77/143/EEC)

1995/0226(SYN)
OBJECTIVES: - to test speed limitation devices, the installation and use of which have been compulsory on lorries over 12 tonnes and on buses and coaches over 10 tonnes since 1 January 1994; - to ensure that vehicles are tested and maintained so that they are safe on the road; - to avoid distortions of competition between transporters due to differences in technical tests in the Member States; - to clarify the situation as regards tests on vehicles of historical interest. CONTENT: - the proposal for a Council directive codifies existing directives (Directive 77/143/EEC and its subsequent amendments) and extends their scope; - Member States have the right to set their own testing standards for all aspects of vehicles of historical interest (and not just braking efficiency); - speed limitation devices are included in the list of points which must be tested (the deadlines of the directives replaced have been maintained); - in Annex II, category 4 (taxis and ambulances) have been moved from the left-hand column to the right-hand column (with categories 5 and 6), given that the technical requirements - and hence the points which need to be tested - are the same as for private vehicles.�