EU Regulation 168/2013 on the type-approval for the L-category does not exempt pure electric vehicles (‘EVs’) from ‘functional’ OBD requirements (except for L1 and L2). Apart from the exemption from the Type VIII test. Nevertheless, the text of the Regulation is ambiguous and contains inconsistencies when it comes to this topic.

The text of Annex XII of Regulation 44/2014 clearly indicates that only vehicles with combustion engines were considered during the drafting of that regulation.

To solve this issue the European commission had created a task force consisting of the Commission, member states and stakeholders, including LEVA-EU. The objective is to achieve a common interpretation of Regulations 168/2013, 44/2014 and 3/2014 on the topic of OBD and to eventually make the Regulation clearer.

It is obvious that all OBD requirements related to emission control systems and emission thresholds do not apply to electric L-category vehicles. The requirement to report the triggering of any operating mode, which significantly reduces engine torque would be applicable. Furthermore, there are relevant requirements related to access to OBD information, a connection interface, reporting on powertrain faults leading to significantly reduced torque and RMI.

LEVA-EU believes it is essential for electric L-category vehicle producers to be involved in this process and therefore calls upon them to contact LEVA-EU manager Annick Roetynck for further details and consultation: tel. + 32 9 233 60 05, email annick@leva-eu.com