For the last two years, an international agreement to develop globally uniform vehicle standards under the aegis of the United Nations has been approved and waiting for ratification from the requisite eight countries. Russia is the eighth country to ratify it, following the U.S. (the first to sign), Canada, Japan, France, England, the European Union, Germany and Russia. The Republic of South Africa and Spain have signed the agreement, but still have to ratify it.
The goal is to develop worldwide standards that increase energy efficiency and vehicle safety while reducing manufacturing costs. The agreement ensures the regulations developed will incorporate the best available, cost-effective technology and public health benefits. The resulting regulations will be available for any country to adopt and will be carried out according to that country’s regulatory process.
The regulations cover all vehicles including farm equipment and will include standards for alternative fuel vehicles. The working group meets next this January in Geneva, Switzerland. Motorcycle emissions, electric vehicles, ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and fuel quality are among the items on the agenda.
World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations
Loading...