The Smart Tachograph 2: A New Era for European Transport & How Evoload Leads the Change
The European transport industry is entering a new phase of digitalization with the introduction of Smart Tachograph 2 (ST2), which becomes mandatory in 2025. This new regulation aims to improve compliance, enhance safety, and streamline operations across borders. But what does this mean for logistics companies, transport operators, and drivers? And more importantly, how does Evoload’s technology align with these changes to help businesses stay ahead?
What is the Smart Tachograph 2?
The ST2 is an upgraded version of the original smart tachograph, designed to ensure better enforcement of driving and resting times, reduce fraud, and facilitate seamless transport operations across Europe. Some of the key features include:
- Automatic GPS Positioning: Tracks vehicles at the start, every three hours, and at the end of a shift.
- Remote Data Transmission: Enforcement authorities can remotely access key data to check compliance without stopping vehicles.
- Secure Communication & Data Protection: Improved encryption and security features to prevent tampering and unauthorized access.
- Mandatory for International Transport: All newly registered commercial vehicles must be equipped with ST2 by August 2025, with retrofitting required for existing vehicles by 2026.
Impact on the Logistics Industry
For transport companies, these regulations will bring both challenges and opportunities:
- Compliance & Legal Assurance: Companies must ensure their fleets are updated with ST2 to avoid fines and penalties.
- Increased Transparency: Real-time tracking and automated reporting reduce administrative burdens and improve operational efficiency.
- Better Driver Management: More accurate data on working hours helps prevent fatigue and ensures compliance with EU driving regulations.
- Cross-Border Efficiency: Seamless data-sharing between EU countries simplifies operations for international carriers.
New Rules from 2025
Significant changes are coming in 2025. Starting from August 2025, Smart Tachograph 2 will be mandatory for all trucks and buses engaged in international transport. This applies to both new and older vehicles. If you are an international driver and fail to meet this requirement after August 2025, you risk hefty fines and, in the worst case, being banned from driving. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:
- Vehicles with a digital tachograph operating in a different EU member state: Must be equipped with Smart Tachograph 2 starting from January 1, 2025.
- Vehicles with Smart Tachograph 1 operating in a different EU member state: Must switch to Smart Tachograph 2 by August 19, 2025.
- International vehicles over 2.5 tons: Must comply with the requirement by July 1, 2026.
Key Deadlines
To clarify the timeline, here’s a summary of the important deadlines for Smart Tachograph 2 implementation:
- Analog tachographs: Must be replaced by December 31, 2024
- Digital tachographs: Must be replaced by December 31, 2024
- Smart Tachograph 1: Must be upgraded by August 18, 2025
- All international vehicles over 2.5 tons: Must comply by July 1, 2026
How Evoload is Adapting & Innovating
At Evoload, we are always at the forefront of industry advancements, ensuring that our platform is not only compliant with new regulations but also enhances the way logistics companies operate. Here’s how our technology aligns with the ST2 implementation:
1. Seamless Integration with Smart Tachograph Data
Our blockchain-powered freight exchange platform can securely integrate ST2 data, allowing shippers and carriers to verify real-time transport information, optimize planning, and ensure compliance with regulations.
2. AI-Powered Route Optimization
With real-time GPS data from ST2, Evoload’s AI algorithms can dynamically adjust routes, helping transporters minimize empty miles, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
3. Digitalized & Automated Transport Orders
Evoload’s automated transport order system can now incorporate ST2 compliance checks, ensuring that all jobs adhere to legal requirements before they are assigned to a carrier.
4. Enhanced Driver & Fleet Management
Through our Evoload Drivers Hub, transport companies can track driver working hours, monitor compliance, and simplify recruitment — all within our platform.
5. Increased Security & Transparency with Blockchain
With immutable records of transport data, Evoload ensures that all transactions, routes, and contracts are securely stored, reducing disputes and enhancing trust between stakeholders.
The Future of Logistics with Evoload & Smart Tachograph 2
The introduction of the Smart Tachograph 2 is a significant step towards a more digital, transparent, and efficient European logistics industry. Evoload is committed to helping businesses not just comply with these regulations but thrive in the new landscape by leveraging advanced technology.
By combining AI, blockchain, and automation, Evoload is shaping the future of logistics — where efficiency, compliance, and sustainability go hand in hand. Are you ready to embrace the change? Join Evoload and lead the way in the next generation of transport innovation.