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Do you ever cross borders with your truck but still don't have a smart tachograph? Pay attention: starting in August 2025, the use of the Smart Tacho 2 will be mandatory for all trucks and buses that transport goods internationally within the European Union. This new tachograph, often referred to as a "tacho," comes as part of European legislation. Its aim is to improve road safety, ensure fair competition, and simplify enforcement for authorities. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the new Smart Tacho 2, when you need to install it (retrofit), and what the costs will be.
The Smart Tacho 2 is an advanced version of the digital tachograph installed in trucks and buses to record drivers' working and rest times. The data collected is used to verify compliance with the law. Its predecessor, the Smart Tacho 1, was introduced in 2019 to efficiently and securely gather data. Due to new EU regulations, the demand for an even more accurate and advanced system emerged, leading to the development of the Smart Tacho 2.
With the introduction of the Smart Tacho 2, several new features are now available. There are notable differences between Smart Tacho 1 and Smart Tacho 2. Below, we highlight the key new functions of the Smart Tacho 2:
The automatic registration of country codes: In the latest tachograph with the new driver card (G2V2), a country code is automatically registered when crossing a border. At the beginning and end of a shift, the country code still needs to be entered manually, but when crossing a national border, this now happens automatically. So stopping is no longer necessary. Older driver cards, such as the G2V1, also work with the Smart Tacho 2, but with those, stopping at the border is still required.
Direct data exchange with authorities: Thanks to new DSRC technology, the Smart Tacho 2 can be read remotely. This means authorities can check data without having to stop the vehicle.
Improved fraud protection: The Smart Tacho 2 includes enhanced security measures to prevent fraud.
More accurate satellite positioning: The new software uses GNSS to capture more precise location data.
New loading and unloading function: With this feature, you can indicate when you are loading or unloading. While it’s not mandatory to use, it is required to properly log your activities.
One of the most important features is that authorities can now read the Smart Tacho 2 remotely. The remote reading of the Smart Tacho 2 is made possible by the DSRC functionality. This means trucks no longer need to stop for roadside checks as often. Additionally, as an owner or fleet manager, you can also read the tachograph data yourself using specialized software. This allows you to easily monitor your drivers’ working and rest times, helping you comply with regulations and avoid potential violations.
There will be several changes starting in 2025. As of August 2025, all trucks and buses will be required to have a Smart Tacho 2 installed. This applies to both new and older vehicles. If you are a driver operating internationally and do not meet this requirement by August 2025, you risk hefty fines or, in the worst case, a driving ban. Let’s dive deeper into when you are required to use the Smart Tacho 2, as it depends on the type of vehicle.
Vehicles with a digital tachograph operating in a country other than their registration country: from January 1, 2025, they must be equipped with the Smart Tacho 2.
Vehicles with a Smart Tacho 1 operating in a different member state: from August 19, 2025, they must switch to the Smart Tacho 2.
International vehicles over 2.5 tons: starting July 1, 2026, the requirement also applies to this group.
To make all the information clearer, we’ve listed the deadlines for the Smart Tacho 2 below. For vehicles registered after August 21, 2023, the Smart Tacho 2 is already required. For others, the following deadlines apply:
If you’re unfamiliar with the new tachograph, recognizing it might be a challenge. To check if your vehicle is equipped with a Smart Tacho 2, you can look at the device's specifications, such as the model number and available features. Additionally, you can also ask an authorized workshop to verify whether your tachograph meets the new requirements. Would you like to have your truck inspected for a Smart Tacho 2? Mike (Manager Inspection at BAS World): "When purchasing a vehicle, the tachograph can be replaced at BAS World. Do you want to come in to have your tachograph replaced? Then you need to visit Bas Truck Center."
The Smart Tacho 2 at VDO is version R4.1. At VDO, you can easily tell if it’s a Smart Tacho 2 by the Bluetooth logo on the front of the tachograph. You can also confirm by removing the tachograph itself.
The Stoneridge Smart Tacho 2 is version Stoneridge SE5000-8.1. For this version, it’s more difficult to recognize whether it’s a Smart Tacho. You will always need to remove the tachograph to check. If you see "SE5000-8.1" on the top, it means it is a Smart Tacho 2.
Are you the owner of a truck? Then it's essential to know where to buy a Smart Tacho 2. The Smart Tacho 2 is available from certified suppliers and tachograph specialists. Be sure to purchase it from a reliable source, as there are strict legal requirements you must meet. The installation must also be done by an authorized workshop qualified to install and calibrate tachographs. Mike (Manager Inspection at BAS World): "We inspect all our trucks for the type of tachograph so the customer always knows whether they still need to replace their tachograph."
Costs can vary depending on the supplier and the type of vehicle in which the system is installed. Generally, the cost including installation ranges between €1700 and €2200. It might seem like a significant investment, but when compared to high fines and potential driving bans, the Smart Tacho 2 can ultimately save you money. Mike (Manager Inspection): "A new tachograph is a costly investment, so it is important to pay attention to the type of tachograph when buying a new/used truck."
Our tip: don’t wait until the last minute to make the switch! As mentioned above, it will be mandatory from August 2025. By that time, workshops are likely to be extremely busy, as everyone will need to switch simultaneously. By making the change now, you can avoid fines and downtime.
Would you like more information about what’s best for your truck? Contact us, and our experts will be happy to assist you!