A major step forward was made on 24 June 2020, at the 181st session of the United Nations World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29). Two parallel amendments to UN Regulation No. 78 and GTR No. 3 were adopted, introducing new requirements for state-of-the-art braking technology while keeping aligned both regulations.
The scope of the amendments includes electromagnetic immunity criteria for the anti-lock braking system (ABS), extending ABS performance requirements to include also three-wheeled vehicles, introduction of uniform prescriptions for the Emergency Stop Signal and specify the means and conditions for disabling the ABS, if equipped.
The proposals for the amendments were developed through extensive collaboration, led by experts from Italy and IMMA, with members from the UNECE’s Working Party on Automated/Autonomous Vehicles (GRVA). Prior to presenting the proposals for endorsement by the Global Forum WP.29, the GRVA had concluded discussions with the adoption of the amendments at the September 2019 and February 2020-sessions.
“The adoption of the amendments on motorcycle braking systems, with the GTR No. 3 and UN Regulation No. 78 is an excellent example of global harmonization of vehicle safety requirements, contributing to establishing the highest global safety standards, elimination of trade barriers and further enabling economies of scale for manufacturers. I am particularly grateful for the contributions in this process by GRVA experts from Canada, United Kingdom and the Netherlands.” said Mr Antonio Erario, Chairman of WP.29 and sponsor on behalf of Italy for the GTR. No. 3 amendments.
Mr. Pascal de Jonge, Chairman of the IMMA’s Vehicle Safety Committee said “The GTR No. 3 and UN Regulation No.78 contain the most severe test conditions in the world for motorcycle braking systems and therefore should be applied universally. This milestone significantly increases clarity for manufacturers with regards to type-approval and certification of vehicles equipped with the latest advances of motorcycle braking systems.”
The United Nations WP.29 meets in Geneva three times a year and oversees the development of Global Technical Regulations. Vehicle braking subjects are handled by the Working Party on Automated/Autonomous Vehicles (GRVA).
More information on WP.29 can be found here.