Top global manufacturer VDO is expected to join ROADPOL in its Masterclass on Smart Tachograph Evolution and tackling fraud.

ROADPOL is set to host two master classes in 2025 to train police officers and road inspection experts in detecting and preventing tachograph manipulations in trucks and buses. The master classes, scheduled for 24-28 March and 20-24 October, will focus on digital tachograph manipulation. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of digital tachograph generation 2, the EU Mobility legislative package, and various methods to detect and prove both hardware and software manipulations. The program will include presentations and hands-on workshops where participants will analyze documents, prints, and perform physical measurements of tachograph senders and vehicle units.

Experts

The master classes will once again be led by Sven Killian from the police of the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate and Frederic Martin of the Belgian Federal Police. Both have been ROADPOL’s permanent trainers and experts on tachograph fraud detection since 2016. Experts from Euro Contrôle Route (ECR)—a European transport inspection collaboration—will also join the training.

The classes will take place in Hasselt, Belgium. Each session starts with introductions to ROADPOL, ECR, and the course agenda. The following days will be dedicated to technical presentations and practical workshops. Participants will receive a secured link to download learning materials at the end of the training. The course will conclude with a farewell on Thursday.

Special Guest

A highlight of the March 2025 master class will be a special visit from VDO, a leading brand in tachograph technology. Experts from VDO will present on the newest generation of tachographs, including the recently approved DTCO 4.1a. The session will cover its functionalities, current challenges, and the implications of the mandatory retrofits. Attendees will also engage in discussions on tachograph fraud detection and enforcement challenges with VDO specialists. „VDO is one of the two largest tachograph manufacturers alongside Stoneridge. With the full implementation of the Smart 2 tachograph, it is essential to have VDO on board to discuss updates, challenges, and enforcement strategies,” explains Frederic Martin.

Trainees

The master classes are open to police officers and road inspectors, preferably with a basic understanding of tachographs and driving/rest periods. Both groups can apply for participation through their national ROADPOL/ECR points of contact. Due to high demand, available spots are allocated to ensure representation from multiple countries. The participants are equally divided between police and road inspection personnel.

“For the past decade, we have successfully conducted around 20 master classes. We constantly update our content to reflect the latest regulations and manipulation techniques. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive,” says Martin.

Sigificance

Digital tachographs play a crucial role in road safety and fair competition. By accurately recording driving and resting times, they help prevent fatigue-related accidents. However, some drivers and transport companies attempt to bypass these regulations, endangering road users and distorting competition.

“ROADPOL remains fully committed to equipping our enforcement officers with the latest knowledge and tools to combat tachograph fraud. By strengthening inspections, we enhance road safety and uphold fair competition within the transport sector,” Martin concludes.

The master classes are supported by the STRIDER III project, co-funded by ROADPOL and the European Union.