EU expands tachograph mandate to light commercial vehicles

Effective 1 July 2026, an EU regulation extends the digital tachograph requirement to light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of 2.5–3.5 tonnes that operate on cross‑border routes. The aim is to improve monitoring of driving and rest periods and to provide better control of trans‑European freight movements.

The rule, designed for commercial freight, also impacts non‑commercial horse transport. The German horse‑sport federation warns that private riders could be classified as commercial carriers and face fines or vehicle immobilisation. Dr. Klaus Miesner said, “The regulation was primarily created to address problems in commercial freight… it does not compare with horse transport,” and the association is seeking a clear legal distinction or a certification to prove non‑commercial status.