A tachograph manufacturer has launched a new booklet that aims to end the confusion over whether or not light commercial vehicles need a device fitted. 

With VOSA issuing £200 on-the-spot fines for vehicles that do not have a tachograph installed and operational, now is the time to ensure fleets are fully aware of the legal requirements regarding tachographs.

Paul Jennings, of Continental Automotive Trading, the manufacturer of the VDO tachograph, said: “Ever since the introduction of tachographs into the heavy goods market, there has always been a great deal of misunderstanding and confusion by both operators and drivers alike when it comes to their usage in the 4x4 and the light commercial vehicle market. 

“In short, any 4x4 vehicle or van towing a trailer used for the carriage of goods (except those exempted under the drivers’ hours rules) requires a tachograph to be installed and used in accordance with the EU regulations, if the combined maximum permissible weight of the vehicle and trailer exceeds 3500 kg. 

“Vehicles that are towing and the total gross combination weight of the vehicle and trailer is in excess of 3,500 kg the vehicle legally has to be fitted with a tachograph. This also means that the operator requires an operator company card and a driver’s card to be legal on the UK roads.” 

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