1. The Working Party on General Safety Provisions (GRSG) held its 126th session from 10 to 13 October 2023 in Geneva. The meeting was chaired by Mr. A. Erario (Italy). Experts from the following countries participated in the work, following Rule 1 of the Rules of Procedure of the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29) (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/690/Rev.1): Australia, Canada, China, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Zimbabwe, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America and Zimbabwe. Experts from the European Commission (EC) participated. Experts from non-governmental organizations participated: American Automotive Policy Council (AAPC), European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), Federation International de l’Automobile (FIA), International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee (CITA), International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (IMMA), International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), International Road Federation (IRF), International Road Transport Union (IRU) and International Association of Public Transport (UITP).

2. GRSG considered and adopted the agenda (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/17) proposed for the 126th session, the running order (GRSG-126-03-Rev.2) and the annotations (GRSG-126-11-Rev.1). Annex I of this report lists the informal documents that were distributed during the session. Annex VII of this report lists the GRSG Informal Working Groups (IWG).

GRSG-126-03/Rev.2 | GRSG: Running order of the 125th (October 2023) session

GRSG-126-11/Rev.1 | GRSG: Updated agenda for the 126th (October 2023) session

GRSG/2023/17 | GRSG: Annotated provisional agenda for the 126th (October 2023) session

3. The expert from Spain informed GRSG that the Working Party on Passive Safety (GRSP) would consider, at its December 2023 session, a proposal (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSP/2023/30) of revised terms of references (ToRs) for IWG on Safer Transport of Children in Buses and Coaches (IWG-STCBC). The expert from Germany, on behalf of the Chair of IWG-STCBC, introduced a presentation (GRSG-126-05) on the work progress. He confirmed that the new UN Regulation prepared by IWG-STCBC would deal with existing systems used in passenger cars, favouring built-in Child Restraint Systems (CRS) and Enhanced CRS that were type approved according to UN Regulation No. 129 (ECRS). In the meantime, he confirmed that the second phase of the UN Regulation would entail CRS in combination with two-point safety belts. He clarified that separate components on CRS for installation would not be allowed, nor combination of two-point belts and top tether or support leg. Finally, he explained the ongoing and upcoming IWG activities on test procedures. GRSG agreed to resume consideration on this subject at its April 2024 session and endorsed the revised IWG ToR (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSP/2023/30) without amendments. The GRSG Chair encouraged GRSG experts to liaise with GRSP to backup this activity.

GRSG-126-05 | STCBC informal group status report to GRSG

GRSP/2023/30 | Safer Transport of Children in Buses and Coaches: Progress report and new Terms of Reference

4. The experts of UITP introduced a proposal of amendments to UN Regulation (GRSG-126-08) in presentation (GRSG-126-29). The experts from UITP underlined that notwithstanding that more buses had become increasingly accessible, a significant number of passengers with restricted mobility still complain about accessibility. They added that specific tests in real-life situations showed that, even in buses that comply with the latest regulation, the journey of passengers with restricted mobility could remain a challenge. The expert from the United Kingdom underlined that not only large buses should be addressed in this endeavour, but also Class B (vehicles not designed to carry standing passengers) buses used for the purposes of charity. Finally, GRSG agreed to establish a “Task Force on Bus and Coach Accessibility” led by the expert from Germany, and to resume discussion at the April 2024 GRSG session, based on the follow-up work of the Task Force (TF).

5. GRSG noted GRSG-126-28 from the expert of Norway, announcing an assessment study conducted by his country on the extent of bus collisions in Europe. He added that the results of this assessment would then be the basis of a comprehensive technical study, which would include specific proposals to enhance collision safety for buses. GRSG agreed to resume discussion following the study outcome at its April 2024 session.

GRSG-126-28 | Frontal protection in buses

6. Finally, GRSG adopted GRSG-126-36, as reproduced in annex II to the report, on aligning the French translation with the English text of the UN Regulation. GRSP requested the secretariat to submit the proposal as draft Corrigendum 2 to the 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107 for consideration and vote at the March 2024 session of WP.29.

GRSG-126-36 | UN R107: Proposal for a Corrigendum to the 06 through 10 series of amendments Editorial correction to the French version of the Regulation.

7. GRSG noted that proposals had not been submitted.

8. GRSG noted a proposal (GRSG-126-16) from the expert of OICA on an exemption in a specific situation – when safety-belts and an airbag limit head movement – for the mandatory headform test to limit head injuries. The experts from Finland argued that the restraint system could fail, and that safety glazing were also designed for Vulnerable Road Users (VRU). The expert from the Netherlands proposed to limit the exemptions to those vehicles where the changes proposed would be allowed. The expert from Italy shared the concerns of the expert from Finland. The expert from Germany clarified that UN Regulation No. 127 (Pedestrian safety) did provide safety for VRU. He clarified that contact would not occur with the windscreen if the occupants were restrained. He supported the proposed exemptions because UN Regulation No. 21 (Interior fitting) was designed to prevent sharp-edge injuries in case of unrestrained occupants. The expert from France suggested that gaps for these tests should be considered. He added that UN Regulation No. 21 provides set of dummies to check that contact did not occur. He stressed the need to provide evidence that contact did not occur and therefore that occupants were not at risk for any category of vehicle. GRSG agreed to resume discussion based on a revised document. GRSG also noted that if a new replacement proposal was not received by the secretariat, GRSG-126-16 should be confirmed for submission as an official document before the deadline.

GRSG-126-16 | UN R43: Proposal for the 02 series of amendments Proposal for amendments pursuant to the introduction of a headform impact test.

9. The expert from Germany, Chair of TF on UN Regulation No. 46 (Devices for indirect vision) introduced TF status report (GRSG-126-23). He then introduced GRSG-126-24-Rev.1 amending the UN Regulation on those parts agreed so far by TF as a new series of amendments. Many of the experts were in favour of the pendulum with a diameter of 165 ± 1 mm and a 5 ± 1 mm thick rubber covering for the impact test. Finally, GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/23 as amended by GRSG-126-24-Rev.1 and GRSG-126-25-Rev.1. The secretariat was requested to submit GRSG-126-25-Rev.1 as draft Supplement 1 to the 05 series of amendments (as reproduced by annex III to the report) and ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/23 (as amended by annex III to the report) as draft 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 46, for consideration and vote at the March 2024 sessions of WP.29 and AC.1. GRSG agreed that TF work would continue to solve the remaining issues in UN Regulation No. 46.

GRSG-126-23 | UN R46 task force: Status report to GRSG

GRSG-126-24/Rev.1 | UN R46: Proposal for the 06 series of amendments Proposal to modify the definitions of the “external original surface” of the vehicle and the "impact point" relative to the hammer.

GRSG-126-25/Rev.1 | UN R46: Proposal for Supplement 1 to the 05 series of amendments Proposal from the GRSG task force on UN R46 to <ul><li>clarify the diameter of the impact test rig,</li><li>introduce provisions for centre-steered vehicles and corresponding magnification factors and for frameless outside mirrors,</li><li>clarify the possibility of having foldable camera wings,</li><li>exclude Class I CMS camera (mounted on the roof of the vehicle) from the impact test,</li><li>clarify impact positions for the pendulum test,</li><li>remove provisions for surveillance cameras (to be covered under UN R26 and UN R61),</li><li>replace references to "mirror" with "indirect vision device",</li><li>clarify markings for devices capable of displaying more than one field of vision, and</li><li>clarify positioning of pure Class I CMS.</li></ul>

GRSG/2023/23 | UN R46: Proposal for the 06 of amendments Proposal from the GRSG task force on UN R46 to <ul><li>clarify the diameter of the impact test rig,</li><li>introduce provisions for centre-steered vehicles and corresponding magnification factors and for frameless outside mirrors,</li><li>clarify the possibility of having foldable camera wings,</li><li>exclude Class I CMS camera (mounted on the roof of the vehicle) from the impact test,</li><li>clarify impact positions for the pendulum test,</li><li>remove provisions for surveillance cameras (to be covered under UN R26 and UN R61),</li><li>replace references to "mirror" with "indirect vision device",</li><li>clarify markings for devices capable of displaying more than one field of vision, and</li><li>clarify positioning of pure Class I CMS.</li></ul>

10. The expert from EC on behalf of IWG VRU-Proxi, presented GRSG-126-32 to introduce the proposal of amendment (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/20) that would clarify the text of the UN Regulation, and would amend conditions under annex 9 (Test methods for close-proximity rear-view field of vision). GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/20 not amended and requested the secretariat to submit it as draft Supplement 3 to the original version of UN Regulation No. 158, for consideration and vote at the March 2024 sessions of WP.29 and AC.1.

GRSG-126-32 | UN R158: Background on the proposal for Supplement 3

GRSG/2023/20 | UN R158: Proposal for Supplement 3 Proposal from the VRU-Proxi informal group to amend provisions concerning “temporarily modified view” for “automatic change of view” and deletion of related provisions under “deactivation” in order to allow systems providing enhanced visibility during manoeuvres. Additional proposal to permit temporary obstruction of view subject to conditions.

11. GRSG noted that proposals had not been submitted.

12. GRSG noted that proposals had not been submitted.

13. The expert from EC on behalf of IWG VRU-Proxi, introduced through a presentation (GRSG-126-31) ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/21 that would allow vehicles with narrower cabs or A pillars positioned inboard of the edge of the cab to be approved on a reduced limit value, providing a level of safety equivalent to that of the original version of the UN Regulation. Moreover, he added that the proposal also introduced an alternative approach for vehicles with competing objectives (e.g. high-capacity transport, high efficiency, new powertrain technology, impact on freight industry) with direct vision challenges. He also introduced GRSG-126-06 to clarify the term “direct vision”. The expert from the United Kingdom introduced two presentations (GRSG-126-33) and reminded GRSG about the premise that established the method of UN Regulation No. 167 and that highlights a concern with the proposed amendment. He also introduced GRSG-126-35 commenting on the above proposal from IWG VRU-Proxi. He finally introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/19 to define a Subsection Frontal Visible Volume within the area of greatest risk with the aim of ensuring that VRUs directly in front of the vehicle cannot be in a blind spot between direct and indirect vision. Finally, GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/21 as amended by GRSG-126-06 and GRSG-126-07-Rev.1. At the same time, it was agreed to send ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/19 to IWG VRU-Proxi for revision and possible submission of an official document at the April 2024 session of GRSG. The secretariat was requested to submit ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/21 (as amended by annex IV to the report) as draft Supplement 1 to the original version of UN Regulation No. 167, for consideration and vote at the March 2024 sessions of WP.29 and AC.1.

GRSG-126-06 | UN R167: Proposal to amend the original text Proposal to delete the reference to “direct vision” in the paragraph regarding equivalency of approvals under UN R125 to avoid confusion due to its usage in both UN R167 and UN R125.

GRSG-126-07/Rev.1 | UN R167: Proposal for amendments to document GRSG/2023/21 Proposal from the VRU-Proxi informal group to amend its formal proposal to introduce an alternative method for assessment of the frontal visible volume to address future cab designs with narrower distances between A pillars.

GRSG-126-31 | UN R167: Background on Supplement 1

GRSG-126-33 | UN R167: Potential Amendment to Ensure Frontal Direct Vehicle Requirements

GRSG-126-35 | UN R167: A-pillar Distance Measurement and Reduction in Volume by A-pillar distance

GRSG/2023/19 | UN R167: Proposal for Supplement 1 Proposal to define a Subsection Frontal Visible Volume within the area of greatest risk with the aim of ensuring that VRUs directly in front of the vehicle cannot be in a blind spot between direct vision and indirect vision.

GRSG/2023/21 | UN R167: Proposal for Supplement 1 Proposal from the VRU-Proxi informal group to introduce an alternative method for assessment of the frontal visible volume to address future cab designs with narrower distances between A pillars. The current measurement method is dependent on the position of the A pillar. The alternative method is independent of the cab design and would be available for use at the manufacturer’s discretion.

14. On request of the expert from Germany, Chair of TF on UN Regulation No. 26, GRSG agreed to defer discussion on this agenda item to its April 2024 session.

GRSG/2023/22 | UN R26: Proposal for the 05 of amendments Proposal submitted by Germany on behalf of the GRSG task force on UN R46 to address surveillance cameras/mirrors under UN R26 (while removing related provisions from UN R46 on indirect vision).

15. As per agenda item 5(a), GRSG agreed to defer discussion on this agenda item at its April 2024 session.

GRSG/2023/24 | UN R61: Proposal for the 01 of amendments Proposal from Germany on behalf of the GRSG task force on UN R46 to address surveillance cameras under UN R61 (while removing related provisions from UN R46).

16. The expert from the Netherlands, Chair of TF on UN Regulation No. 39, introduced TF status report (GRSG-126-15) and TF ToRs (GRSG-126-21-Rev.1 superseding GRSG-126-01). The expert from IMMA stated that L categories (motor vehicles with two, three or four wheels) had different characteristics and needs from other categories of vehicles, and therefore he supported TF activity. The expert from OICA questioned GRSG about the strategy decided at the 109th session of GRSG in 2015 to postpone the consideration on “anti-tampering measures for electronic vehicle interfaces, such as odometer”, until “the subgroup on ‘Automated Driving’ dealing with this subject” had finalized their work. He asked why GRSG would not respect their strategy to wait to see the effect of UN Regulation No. 155 (cyber security) that clearly deals with protecting mileage data (annex 5, table A1, paragraph 4.3.6., item 20.4) and mitigation solutions (table B5, item 20.4). The expert from OICA also pointed out that the data and studies tabled so far in TF do not justify any need for improvement on odometer accuracy and tampering. Finally, GRSG adopted the ToR (GRSG-126-21-Rev.1) as reproduced in annex V to the report and agreed to resume discussion at its next sessions based on outcome of TF work.

GRSG-126-01 | UN R39: Draft proposal for a GRSG Task Force covering mileage values Proposal to mandate the task force to develop a draft regulatory proposal to amend UN Regulation No. 39, or any other regulatory proposal, with regard to speedometer and odometer equipment including its installation, in respect of mileage values processing.

GRSG-126-15 | UN R39 and Mileage Values: Status report to GRSG

GRSG-126-21/Rev.1 | Draft proposal for a GRSG Task Force on UN R39 covering mileage values

17. The experts from Austria and the Netherlands, introduced GRSG-126-19-Rev.1 superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/18, aimed at clarifying the need to have a support device for centre axle trailers, independent of the type of coupling device. The expert from France suggested the amendment proposed should have gradual transitional provisions. Finally, GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/18 as amended by annex VI to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal as draft 03 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 55 for consideration and vote at the March 2024 sessions of WP.29 and AC.1.

GRSG-126-19/Rev.1 | UN R55: Proposal for the 03 series of amendments Proposal to require a support device for centre axle trailers, independent of the type of coupling device.

GRSG/2023/18 | UN R55: Proposal for the 03 series of amendments Proposal to clarify the need to have a support device for centre axle trailers, independent of the type of coupling device.

18. The expert from the Russian Federation informed GRSG that his delegation had received several comments to his proposal (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/2), and that experts from his country were working on a revision. He also clarified that his country had published a new standard that already reproduces the revised proposal he intended to submit. GRSG agreed to resume discussion on this subject at its April 2024 session.

GRSG/2023/2 | UN R66: Proposal for Supplement 1 to the 02 series of amendments Proposal to allow additional checks on passive safety at the national level when conducting tests of a complete vehicle (such as checking for damage to seat mounts, objects presenting injury risks in the residual space, and operability of hatches).

19. GRSG noted that proposals had not been submitted.

20. The expert from CLEPA introduced GRSG-126-17 to allow different options to fulfil the marking requirements in cases where more than one UN Regulation applies. GRSG requested the secretariat to distribute GRSG-126-17 with an official symbol at its April 2024 session.

GRSG-126-17 | UN R110: Proposal for a new Supplement Proposal to introduce options to fulfil marking requirements in cases where more than one Regulation applies (e.g. avoid duplicating the E-Marking).

21. The expert from the Republic of Korea asked for guidance from the group on the need for a second step for radiant warmer. The expert from the Netherlands explained that some inconsistencies were noted in the UN Regulation on radiant warmers. He clarified, as an example, that rear seats currently allow for higher temperatures at the outlets in the rear where at the same time rear seats are likely to carry vulnerable children. GRSG agreed to resume discussion on this subject based on possible proposals at its April 2024 session.

GRSG-125-33/Rev.4 | UN R122: Proposal for amendments to documents GRSG/2023/8 and GRSG-125-15

22. The expert from the Netherlands on behalf of IWG on Field of Vision Assistant (FVA) of Drivers, introduced the IWG status report (GRSG-126-22). He explained that the IWG work came from two meetings and workshops. He informed GRSG that human-machine interface experts shared the concerns of contracting parties (CPs) about distraction. He finally announced that plans were for another IWG meeting before submission of an official proposal to the April 2024 session of GRSG. GRSG agreed to resume discussion at its next session based on a possible proposal submitted by IWG.

GRSG-126-22 | FVA informal group: Status report to GRSG

23. The expert from the Netherlands on behalf of the IWG on Event Data Recorder/Data Storage System for Automated Driving (EDR/DSSAD) introduced the IWG status report (GRSG-126-12). He explained the background of IWG and the state of play of EDR for Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDVs). He stated that more consideration by IWG was necessary on the “Guidance document on EDR for HDV appropriate for adoption in 1958 and 1998 Agreement Resolutions or Regulations” (ECE/TRANS/WP29/GRSG/2023/14), amended by GRSG-125-08. GRSG agreed to resume discussion at its April 2024 session based on the IWG outcome.

24. GRSG noted that the proposal of 02 series of amendments adopted at its last session in March, had been revised (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/98/Rev.1) for submission to the November 2024 session of WP.29, to fully align it with the provisions introduced by Supplement 2 to the original version and Supplement 2 to the 01 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 160 (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/101 and ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/102). GRSG endorsed this revision.

25. The expert from the Netherlands on behalf of the IWG on EDR/DSSAD, with GRSG-126-12 introduced GRSG-126-02 superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134, which was adopted by GRSG at its March 2023 session and submitted for consideration and vote to the WP.29 session of November 2023. He clarified that IWG had not yet decided on including the last stop trigger. He added that IWG had agreed, that instead of the EDR-HDV requirements, manufacturers may comply with the EDR-Light Duty Vehicles (LDV) requirements for vehicles with maximum mass of 8,000 to 12,000 kg , but had not agreed:

1. whether this should be addressed in the scope or in the approval section (paragraph 4.); and
2. whether for a maximum mass between 8,000 and 12,000 kg, an additional demonstration by the manufacturer to the approval authority is necessary as evidence of effective triggering.

He also introduced GRSG-126-09 for information only, to provide an overview of the potential provisions under EDR Step 2 to be considered by IWG.

26. The expert from EC supported the proposed text of GRSG-126-02, paragraph 1.2.:

He explained that this compromise for vehicles between 8,000 and 12,000 kgs of maximum mass would prevent the risk of a legislative void, while allowing the Parties to ensure that the EDR data will be recorded in case of vehicles from 8,000 to 12,000 kgs. He also declared that an alternative solution (application of the material provisions of UN Regulation No. 160 to type-approval of vehicles between 8,000 and 12,000 kgs under paragraph 4.) would be acceptable as the second best solution only if the manufacturers were required to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the type-approval authority the equivalence of the triggering performance with the triggering performance under the UN Regulation on EDR-HDV. GRSG requested a vote of experts from the CPs of the 1958 Agreement on the term “may” or “shall” in the scope of the draft UN Regulation. Most CPs were in favour of the term “may” as proposed by the expert from EC. However, the expert from Finland raised concerns on possible dis-harmonization risks with the term “may”. The expert from the United Kingdom introduced GRSG-126-37 proposing the deletion of the alternative LDV requirements to EDR-HDV from the scope and the approval sections, and moving it to the specification section. The expert from OICA stated that the text of the scope proposed by GRSG-126-02 was contrary to the principle of mutual recognition of type approvals of the agreement and introduced GRSG-126-38.

27. The expert from AAPC introduced GRSG-126-30 explaining the opinion of his organization on the draft UN Regulation. He reminded GRSG that EDR are data-recording devices used for crash reconstruction to identify potential areas of improvement in safety designs. He added that UN Regulation No. 160 established EDR requirements aligned with the safety designs of the M1 and N1 categories of vehicles. The HDV-EDR UN Regulation addresses heavier vehicles with substantially different safety architectures. He clarified that medium vehicles (N2) derived from light vehicles (N1) have safety designs consistent with UN Regulation No. 160 across the entire range to 12,000 kg. He stated that the proposed HDV-EDR UN Regulation accepts approvals of such vehicles up to 8 tons under UN Regulation No. 160, but introduces additional requirements for such vehicles between 8,000 and 12,000 kg. Therefore, he noted the absence of evidence-based justifications to support the additional requirements. Thus, he questioned the principle that an EDR compliant with UN Regulation No. 160 could be refused approval under UN Regulation No. 160. Moreover, he stated that AAPC opposed the introduction of uncertainty over whether an N2 category vehicle integrating an EDR matched to its safety design could be refused approval or could be required to integrate an EDR inappropriate to its design, based solely on an arbitrary weight limit. Finally, he stated that his organization requested that its objection to the additional requirements for approvals under the draft HDV-EDR UN Regulation of vehicles having a maximum mass of 8,000 to12,000 kg of category N2 derived from N1 vehicles be recorded in the session report.

28. GRSG also considered amendment GRSG-126-02-Rev.1 to ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134 as a compromise proposal by the IWG Chair.

29. The expert from the United States of America stated that in the spirit of harmonization and cooperation, her country has spent significant resources and time providing expert advice to the IWG from the Department of Transportation’s decades of experience with light-duty Event Data Recorders. She clarified that United States Regulation Part 563 serves as the foundation for UN Regulation No. 160. She stated that when the IWG focused on creating a regulation for heavy-duty (H.D.) EDRs under demanding timelines, the United States of America cautioned that the lack of global data and experience with HD EDRs could be a problem. Despite these efforts, the European Commission and European member States chose to focus the UN Regulation on vehicles of 8,000 kg and above, and ignored repeated concerns about the technical deficiencies with the last stop trigger. The United States does not consider the above proposal (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134 as amended by GRSG-126-02-Rev.1) technically ready for endorsement by GRSG. Without additional flexibilities in the regulatory language to reflect that not all medium- and heavy-duty vehicles mirror the types of vehicles in the European market, the draft UN Regulation may potentially create trade barriers for vehicles produced in North America. Further, she stated that the above proposal does not meet the longstanding objectives of WP.29 to promote safety and harmonization, and therefore it should be returned to the IWG for further work.

30. The expert from Canada supported the statement of the expert of the United States of America and the comments from the expert from AAPC regarding the applicability of UN Regulation No. 160 to medium vehicles derived from light vehicles. He believed the adoption of the proposal was premature because of lack of data and time to fully assess it and expressed support for continued technical discussion of the outstanding issues within the IWG. The expert from France suggested that a case-by-case solution could be the best one for a phase approach and that the proposal could be improved in a second step. The expert from Spain agreed with the approach of the expert from France. The GRSG Chair suggested that after data collection in using the UN Regulation, GRSG would have the basis to amend it. The experts from EC and Germany argued that it was requested several times to provide evidence and data about the concerns expressed by the United States of America.

31. Finally, most CPs to the 1958 Agreement adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134 as amended by GRSG-126-02-Rev.1. The secretariat was requested to replace ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134 with ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134/Rev.1 (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/134 as amended by GRSG-126-02-Rev.1) as a proposal of new a UN Regulation for the Approval of Event Data Recorders on Heavy-Duty Vehicles for consideration and vote at the November 2023 sessions of WP.29 and AC.1.

GRSG-126-02/Rev.1 | UN R HD-EDR: Proposal for new regulation for Approval of Event Data Recorders for Heavy-Duty Vehicle Supersedes official document ECE/TRANS/WP29/GRSG/2023/13

GRSG-126-09 | EDR: Step 2 Informational document from the EDR/DSSAD informal group describing potential items for consideration in further work on light and heavy vehicle EDR provisions.

GRSG-126-12 | EDR/DSSAD: Status report to GRSG

GRSG-126-30 | Global EDR

GRSG-126-37 | Heavy-duty vehicle EDR: Proposal for amendments to GRSG-126-02

GRSG-126-38 | Heavy-duty vehicle EDR: Proposal to amend document GRSG-126-02 Proposal to enable EDR approval for vehicles between 8-12t under UN R160 subject to additional verifications.

WP.29/2023/134/Rev.1 | EDR for heavy-duty vehicles: Proposal for a new UN Regulation

32. GRSG recalled that its experts were invited to provide further comments and indications on which UN Regulations would not be affected by the Unique Identifier (UI). GRSG also noted that it was expected to complete a tentative list provided at its previous sessions. The expert from CITA introduced GRSG-126-27 to provide clarity on the use of the different markings of a device corresponding to a single UI.

33. Finally, GRSG adopted GRSG-126-26-Rev.2 tabled by the experts from CITA and CLEPA and agreed to send it to the IWG on Database for the Exchange of Type Approval documentation as the final deliberation of GRSG on this subject.

GRSG-126-26/Rev.2 | 1958 Agreement: Unique Identifier Proposed actions for the IWG on DETA, GRs and WP.29

GRSG-126-27 | Some thoughts about the Unique Identifier

34. The expert from Germany introduced GRSG-126-04, to express support for the proposal from the International Association of the Body and Trailer Building Industry (CLCCR) of assisting driven axles on trailers (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/5). He also informed GRSG about the investigation of the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) in his country on the influence that driven trailers can have on the driving dynamics of combinations compared to non-driven trailers. He added that BASt had concluded that driven trailers did not negatively impact on vehicle safety in certain conditions. Therefore, he stated that these kinds of axles can distribute and use energy storage more efficiently. The experts from CLEPA and OICA supported the CLCCR proposal and expected coordination between the different working groups to introduce type approvals for this new type of trailer. The expert from France supported the proposal and suggested targeting different combinations of these trailers. GRSG agreed to resume discussion on this agenda item at its April 2024 session based on a revised proposal from CLCCR. At the same time, the Chair was requested to report the highlights of the session to the November 2024 session of WP.29 and to seek guidance on a coordinated activity with other working groups.

GRSG-126-04 | RE3: Statement on document GRSG/2023/5 (assisting driven axles on trailers)

GRSG/2023/5 | RE3: Proposal for Amendments to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles Proposal to amend definitions in RE.3 taking into account new technical developments for heavy duty vehicles and battery electric cars.

35. The experts from CLEPA and OICA introduced GRSG-126-39 (GRVA-17-37) introducing consideration on the categorization of automated vehicles. The secretary of the Working Group on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles (GRVA) announced that GRVA was ready to cooperate with GRSG on new categories of vehicles and was seeking the best way to start this activity. He also announced a workshop on this subject before end of the year by the GRVA secretariat. The Chair of GRSG suggested establishing a TF on this subject and the expert from OICA volunteered as TF secretary. At the same time, he suggested a Co-Chair from CPs of the 1998 Agreement since S.R.1 would be amended.

GRSG-126-39 | Considerations on the categorization of Automated Vehicles

36. GRSG agreed to defer discussion on the amendment to S.R.1 based on a revised proposal superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2022/18. In the meantime, the need for a revised proposal to be sponsored by a CP to the 1998 Agreement was reiterated.

37. The secretary of GRVA informed GRSG on the last outcome of work of the group. He underlined that GRVA was in the pre-regulatory phase and that the working group had specific items to liaise with GRSG such as DSSAD, new vehicle categories and amendments to UN Regulations as a follow-up of the Automated Vehicles Regulatory Screening (AVRS). He said that ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRVA/2023/18 indicated that UN Regulations Nos. 43, 107, 160, and R.E.3 and S.R.1 were priorities for amendment by GRSG. The expert from the Netherlands informed GRSG that during the week of 16 to 20 October 2023, the representatives of TF- AVRS would convene in Paris to discuss the way forward. He urged a responsive start of the activities on new categories of vehicles and amendments needed to the above-mentioned UN Regulations and Resolutions. Finally, GRSG agreed to resume considerations on the categorization of automated vehicles and amendments on priority UN Regulations based on the follow-up of the meeting of TF-AVRS representatives.

GRSG-125-34/Rev.1 | AVRS task force: Status report to GRSG

GRVA/2023/18 | Report on the fitness of WP.29 Regulations and Global Technical Regulations for their application to automated vehicles This document summarises the reviews conducted by the GR working parties on the fitness for ADS of UN Regulations and GTR for application to ADS vehicles. This document represents the current opinions of the experts at the time of submission, and the recommendations contained inside may evolve significantly during the next steps of the process of reviewing and amending Regulations.

38. GRSG unanimously elected Mr. A. Erario (Italy) as Chair and Mr. K. Hendershot (Canada) as Vice-Chair for the GRSG sessions scheduled for 2024.

39. GRSG adopted GRSG-126-34-Rev.1 (Priority of work of GRSG stemming from ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2023/1/Rev.2) and agreed to submit it to WP.29 at its November 2023 session.

40. GRSG noted that a revised version of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2023/6 was not yet available and agreed to resume discussion based on the feedback from IWG PTI at the October 2023 session of GRSG.

GRSG/2023/6 | AECS PTI: Proposal for a new Rule (1997 Agreement)

41. The Secretary reported on the highlights (GRSG-126-10) of the 190th (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/1173) session of the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations.

GRSG-126-10 | GRSG: Highlights from the June 2023 WP.29 session

42. The expert from the Netherlands, Chair of TF on three dimensional “H” (3-D "H) point machine, informed GRSG that TF (with the participation of experts of GRSP) had prepared a new addendum (GRSG-126-20) to the Mutual Resolution No. 1 to be discussed at the December 2023 session of GRSP. He explained that the proposal included specifications and the calibration procedure of the 3-D “H”-point machine, the procedure for determining the point “H”, and the actual torso angle for seating positions in motor vehicles which would be used in all referenced UN Regulations and GTRs. GRSG agreed that TF would prepare amendments proposals for the March 2024 session of GRSG to UN Regulations Nos. 35, 43, 46, 125, 166 and 167 and UN GTR No. 6 in the remit of GRSG which would move the references from R.E.3 and from the text of the UN GTR No. 6 to M.R.1. It was also agreed that the authorization to develop the amendments to UN GTRs Nos. 6, 7 and 14 would be coordinated with GRSP would be submitted at the March 2024 session of the Executive Committee of the 1998 Agreement (AC.3). Th aim was to have a complete set of amendments to UN Regulations, UN GTRs and M.R.1 at the November 2024 sessions of WP.29, AC.1 and AC.3.

GRSG-126-20 | MR1: Proposal for Amendment 5 Information document to inform GRSG of the proposal to introduce provisions for the specifications and calibration procedure of the 3-D "H"-point machine and the procedure for determining the "H"-point and the actual torso angle for seating positions in motor vehicles, to be used in all referenced UN Regulations and GTR. The proposal will be formally considered by GRSP in December 2023.

43. GRSG noted that the information had not been submitted for further consideration of the use of windscreen with coloured tint (GRSG-125-23).

GRSG-125-23 | Request for comments on windscreen tints

44. The secretariat introduced the Inland Transport Committee (ITC) climate change strategy (GRSG-126-13-Rev.1) on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in inland transport. He also introduced the inputs and feedback from the Working Party on Pollution and Energy (GRPE) to the outline of the ITC climate change strategy and to the biennial report (GRSG-126-14). He informed GRSG that ITC had requested the secretariat to develop a strategy document for reducing Green House Gas (GHG) emissions in inland transport based on international United Nations legal instruments under the Committee’s purview with priority actions for ITC and all its relevant subsidiary bodies. This would be considered and possibly adopted by the Committee at its eighty-sixth plenary session in 2024. He added that the secretariat had also been requested to report biennially with in-depth reports to the Committee on climate change and inland transport, starting at the Committee’s 2024 session. The expert from the United Kingdom stated that GRSG would have indirect rather than direct contributions to the strategy. He stressed that the protection of children in buses, and cyclists through UN Regulations under its remit, would encourage the shift to green mobility and public transport. He concluded that the strategy rather than limit, should enable people to travel. The expert from OICA remarked that this item should be achieved in cooperation, since specific solutions work better in some countries than in others. He finally encouraged GRSG to view his organization’s website on decarbonization (www.oica.net/oica-releases-global-decarbonization-framework/). The expert from the Netherlands suggested that assisting driven axles on trailers (e-axles) would definitively contribute to the strategy, even though this contribution would be coordinated among other subsidiary bodies. The expert from India informed GRSG about his country’s aim to achieve zero emission by 2070 and how it was fast pacing with measures to achieve this result. He suggested that e-axles and radiant warmers (UN Regulation No. 122) would be a contribution from one side, while on the other, GRSG would contribute to paving the way to use alternative fuels with low-carbon emissions: compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and Flex Fuels. The expert from Germany noted that UN Regulation No. 46 allowed the use of a camera instead of large mirrors to reduce aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption. The expert from IMMA underlined that micromobility as a key factor to downsize vehicles and to reduce the environmental impact of vehicles, was on hold because of regional differences in categorizing subcategories stemming from L7. Finally, the GRSG Chair reported that these conclusions of the group would be highlighted to WP.29 at its session in November 2024.

GRSG-126-13/Rev.1 | Development of the ITC Strategy on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in inland transport

GRSG-126-14 | Inputs and feedback from [GRPE/WP.29] to the outline of the ITC climate change strategy and to the biennial report

45. Referring to a similar proposal submitted under agenda item 9(b) (paragraph 20. above), the expert from CLEPA introduced (GRSG-126-18) to allow different options to fulfil the marking requirements in cases where more than one UN Regulation was applicable. GRSG requested the secretariat to distribute GRSG-126-18 with an official symbol at its April 2024 session.

GRSG-126-18 | UN R118: Proposal for a Supplement Proposal to introduce options to fulfil marking requirements in cases where more than one Regulation applies (e.g. avoid duplicating the E-Marking).

46. GRSG noted that its 127th session was scheduled to be held in Geneva from 15 April (14.30 p.m. CET) to 19 April (12.30 p.m.) 2024. GRSG noted that the deadline for the submission of official documents to the secretariat is 22 January 2024, twelve weeks prior to the session.

GRSG-126-40 | GRSG: Provisional agenda for the 127th (April 2024) session