Brussels, 14/07/2003 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission on Monday adopted a proposed directive to improve road safety and the functioning of the internal market, by imposing new harmonised technical provisions for motor vehicles, coaches and buses on Community territory. These measures will be brought in as of January 2006 and phased in up to 2010, depending on the category of the vehicle, in order to allow manufacturers to adapt to the obligatory provisions. This new proposal, which modifies directive 70/156/EEC, will mean that all new vehicles will be subject to harmonised construction standards which currently apply only to cars.
The proposal will apply to all road vehicles: trucks, vans, tractors, semi-trailers, trailers, buses and coaches. Among the provisions to be made obligatory on new vehicles, there will be: - ABS (anti-blocking system for wheels when braking); - new mirrors such as the front mirror; - improved light-signalling; - side protection to prevent cyclists or pedestrians from being dragged under the vehicle; - anti-splashing devices for tyres. Towing systems, tyres, windows, etc, will be approved according to stricter standards. The proposal also provides for specific measures for buses and coaches. These must be fitted with emergency exits commensurate with the vehicle's transport capacity, provide easy access for persons with limited mobility, and suitable places for persons travelling in wheelchairs. New vehicles will be issued with a certificate of conformity.