In a constantly evolving world, where urban mobility is transforming daily, road safety has become a crucial issue. Recently, more than 250 professionals met in Barcelona to discuss the role of vehicle inspections (ITV) in improving road safety and protecting the environment. They also addressed the future challenges facing this constantly changing sector.
The 2023 Vehicle Inspection Sector Congress, organized by the Spanish Association of Entities Collaborating with the Administration in Vehicle Technical Inspections (Aeca-ITV), took place on October 4th and 5th in Barcelona under the theme "Looking to the Future ." During this event, representatives from the sector, as well as members of various institutions, met to analyze fundamental issues related to vehicle inspections.
One of the key topics discussed at the congress was the need to adapt vehicle inspections (ITV) to electric vehicles, and in particular to personal mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters, which are becoming increasingly common in our cities. In Spain, it is estimated that more than one million of these vehicles are in use, and their safety has become a growing concern. To address this issue, Aeca-ITV presented a proposal for a specific inspection process for these vehicles, with the aim of ensuring their proper functioning and reducing the risks they may pose to other road users.
Another important challenge discussed at the congress was the high rate of absenteeism at the MOT, which currently stands at 36,4% in Spain. To address this problem, various proposals were put forward, such as the use of low-emission zone (LEZ) cameras to monitor vehicles with expired MOTs, the requirement of the MOT for contracting, renewing or subrogating vehicle insurance policies, and the promotion of road safety courses and awareness campaigns on the importance of the MOT for road safety and the environment.
In addition to these challenges, the digitalisation of technical inspection stations was discussed. The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) announced upcoming actions, such as the digitalisation of type A ITV cards and improvements in data communication between the DGT and ITV stations.
In summary, the 2023 ITV Sector Congress reveals the determination of the ITV sector to adapt to changes in mobility and ensure safety on Spanish roads. The inspection proposal for personal mobility vehicles and the initiatives to reduce absenteeism at the ITV show a solid commitment to road safety and environmental protection in a world in constant motion.
