Tachographs expand to more vehicles: see who is affected

From 1 July 2026, new European regulations will come into force requiring thousands of light commercial vehicles to use a second-generation smart tachograph.

The measure is part of the European Union’s Mobility Package and will apply to goods vehicles weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes that carry out international freight transport.

Until now, this requirement was mainly associated with heavy goods vehicles, but from July many vans used in international operations will also be subject to the same rules.

What is a tachograph?

A tachograph is an electronic device installed in a vehicle that automatically records various data related to the vehicle and the driver's activity.

The information recorded includes:

• driving times

• breaks and rest periods

• vehicle speed

• distance travelled

• vehicle location

In the latest versions, known as smart tachographs, some of this information can be transmitted remotely to authorities during roadside inspections.

Who will be affected?

The new requirement applies to light commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of more than 2.5 tonnes and up to 3.5 tonnes that carry out international road freight transport, including cross-border operations within the European Union.

In addition to installing the tachograph, drivers will also have to comply with rules regarding maximum driving times, mandatory breaks and rest periods, similar to those already imposed on heavy goods vehicle drivers.

Why is the European Union introducing this measure?

According to European legislation, the objective is to improve road safety, reduce driver fatigue and ensure fairer competition between transport companies.

The European Union believes that many light commercial vehicles are now carrying out activities similar to those of heavy goods vehicles and should therefore be subject to equivalent rules regarding driving and rest times.

Pay attention to potential fines

Companies affected by the new rules should check in advance whether their vehicles require the installation of the new equipment.

Failure to install a tachograph when legally required may result in fines and penalties during roadside inspections, both in Portugal and in other European Union countries.

For many transport operators, this will be one of the most significant changes affecting the road transport sector in 2026.

Sources: ACP, IMT, ANTRAM, Pplware