New Automotive Policy Announced by the European Commission
The new automobile policy announced by the European Commission focuses on strengthening the competitiveness of the European automotive industry by implementing an effective internal market regulatory framework and international harmonization of technical requirements, as well as enhancing co-ordination of policy areas affecting the sector.
The EC Whole Vehicle Type-Approval system had become mandatory for all passenger type cars in January 1998, for 2 and 3 wheeled motor vehicles in June 2003 and for new agricultural and forestry tractors in July 2005. Since 29 April 2009, manufacturers may also apply for EC whole vehicle type approval for commercial vehicles. The policy further states that between now and 29 October 2012, EC whole vehicle type approval will gradually become compulsory for new types of all these categories of vehicles. The need for such kind of regulations on safety and environmental protection has long been felt by concerned citizens.
Another obvious aim of the policy is to further improve the competitiveness of the European auto industry by trying to promote the globalization of the technical regulation through the United Nations Economic Council for Europe.
The European Commission is known to bring out policies on regulating the auto industry for the benefit of the public in general, beginning with the Pedestrian Protection directives to the one regulating emissions from heavy duty vehicles. It is time that the other countries learn a lesson from the EC. Though the auto industry is among one of the top revenue earning industries in Europe, the EC has refused to compromise on the safety and security norms of the masses by showing any leniency to the auto industry. It is indeed sad to see that at a time when most developed countries are taking the safety of its people as a priority, there are other countries that are yet to implement some basic norms and regulations on traffic control.
