The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced its vision for GB Type Approval.

The type approval process ensures that vehicles meet safety and environmental standards before being placed on the market.

While the UK was in the EU, type approval was administered by the EU Commission. However, the UK’s departure from the EU has placed type approval regulatory framework back under the jurisdiction of the UK Government. 

In a written statement to Parliament, transport secretary Mark Harper, said: “Following our departure from the EU, we have the freedom to rethink the ‘type approval’ rules which apply to all cars, vans, motorcycles and other vehicles sold in the UK.

“Whilst maintaining our high standards of safety and environmental protection, wherever possible we will reduce the administrative burden of demonstrating compliance with regulations.”

The DfT says it will build the framework based on three key principles: use international standards wherever possible – making regulation cheaper to follow for importers and exporters; deregulate low risk areas and accept alternative national standards where international standards do not exist or aren’t suitable; and introduce UK-specific rules only where necessary, for example to introduce new technology more quickly.

Harper added: “In the short term, we will implement these principles with a three-year programme of reform to retained EU regulations.

“This will include options for future emission regulation and plans to introduce new safety technologies, such as automated lane keeping, and regulation to strengthen cyber security.”

Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK, welcomed the announcement from the DfT on its vision for GB Type Approval.

“It is crucial that the Government works closely with key industry stakeholders on GB Type Approval to ensure a fine balance is struck particularly addressing the delicate position of Northern Ireland and ensuring the UK market remains attractive to European car manufacturers,” she said.

“NFDA looks forward to working and engaging with the Government in developing a GB Type Approval which works for franchised dealers.”

To view the DfT’s vision for GB type approval, click here.