In a constantly evolving world, where urban mobility is changing day by day, road safety becomes a crucial issue. Recently, more than 250 professionals met in Barcelona to discuss the role of the Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV) in improving road safety and protecting the environment. In addition, the future challenges facing this ever-changing sector were addressed.
The ITV Sector Congress 2023, Organized by the Spanish Association of Entities Collaborating with the Administration in the Technical Inspection of Vehicles (Aeca-ITV), it took place on October 4 and 5 in Barcelona under the slogan "Looking to the future"During this event, representatives from the sector, as well as members of various institutions, met to discuss key issues related to the ITV.
One of the most prominent topics during the congress was the need to adapt the ITV to electric vehicles and, in particular, to personal mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters, which are gaining ground in our cities. In Spain, it is estimated that there are more than a million of these vehicles in circulation, and their safety has become a growing concern. To address this issue, Aeca-ITV has presented a proposal for a specific inspection of these vehicles, with the aim of ensuring their correct operation 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.
