1. The Working Party on General Safety Provisions (GRSG) held its 109th session from 29 September to 2 October 2015 (morning) in Geneva. The meeting was chaired by Mr. A. Erario (Italy). Experts from the following countries participated in the work, following Rule 1(a) of the Rules of Procedure of the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29) (TRANS/WP.29/690, ECE/TRANS/WP.29/690/Amend.1 and Amend.2): Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russian Federation, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK). An expert from the European Commission (EC) also participated. Experts from the following non-governmental organizations participated: European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), European Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association (AEGPL), International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association (IMMA), International Road Transport Union (IRU), International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International Road Transport Union (IRU) and International Association for Natural Gas Vehicles (NGV Global). Upon the special invitation of the Chair, an expert from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the International Association of the Body and Trailer Building Industry (CLCCR) and the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) participated.

2. GRSG considered and adopted the agenda proposed for the 109th session (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/19 and Add.1).

GRSG/2015/19 | Provisional agenda for the 109th GRSG session

GRSG/2015/19/Add.1 | Annotated provisional agenda for the 109th GRSG session

3. GRSG also adopted the running order for the session as proposed by the Chair in GRSG-109-01. GRSG noted the main decisions of the World Forum WP.29 taken during its session of June 2015 (report ECE/TRANS/WP.29/1116).

4. The informal documents distributed during the session are listed in Annex I of the 109th session report. The GRSG informal working groups are listed in Annex VIII of the report.

5. Recalling the adoption at the previous GRSG session of a revised proposal for the introduction of automatic fire suppression systems in the engine and/or heater compartment of buses and coaches and its submission to WP.29 for consideration at the November 2015 session (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/88), the expert from Sweden introduced GRSG-109-02 and GRSG-109-05 proposing to correct some editorial corrections. GRSG endorsed the proposed corrections.

GRSG-109-02 | Corrigendum to the proposed Supplement 4 to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Editorial corrections to document WP.29/2015/88 proposing to introduce fire suppression systems for buses and coaches upon detection of fire in the engine and/or heater compartment.

GRSG-109-05 | Proposal for the 07 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to correct that apparent omission of paragraph 7.5.1.5 in Annex 3 in the formal proposal to introduce mandatory fire suppression systems in certain buses and coaches (document GRSG/2015/32).

WP.29/2015/88 | Proposal for Supplement 4 to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to introduce mandatory requirements for fire suppression systems for Class III buses and coaches (and optional requirements for other classes) activated upon detection of fire in the engine and/or heater compartment. This proposal also extends the treatment of rear-view mirrors to any camera-monitor systems used in place of rear-view mirrors.

6. Upon the request of GRSG at its previous session, the expert from OICA presented ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/32 aimed at mandating fire suppression systems on vehicles of Classes I and II as a new 07 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107. GRSG noted a number of concerns by France, Germany, Italy, Poland, United Kingdom, IRU and UITP on the scope and the proposed transitional provisions. Recalling its commitment of the last session (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/87, para. 6), GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/32 as reproduced in Annex II to the report and requested the secretariat to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft 07 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG/2015/32 | Proposal for the 07 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to mandate fire suppression systems on vehicles of Classes I and II as a new 07 series of amendments to UN R107. It is mainly based on ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2014/6/Rev.1, amended as reproduced in GRSG-108-51, submitted to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their November 2015 sessions, as draft Supplement 4 to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/88).

7. The expert from Germany introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/20 clarifying the provisions on the height of steps in vehicles which comply to Annex 8. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/20 as reproduced in Annex III to the report and requested the secretariat to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG/2015/20 | Proposal for amendments to the 05 and 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to clarify the requirements concerning the height of steps in vehicles which comply with Annex 8.

8. The expert from Romania introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/21 proposing to clarify the requirements on seat spacing. GRSG noted study reservations by the experts from the Czech Republic and Germany. The expert from OICA announced to further clarify the provisions of the measurement method. The Chair invited all experts to send their comments to the expert from Romania who volunteered to submit to the secretariat a revised proposal for a final review at the next GRSG session.

GRSG/2015/21 | Proposal for amendments to the 05 and 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to redefine the measurement criteria for determining appropriate seat spacing in order to address observed cases where adequate spacing is not achieved even though the current criteria are fulfilled. The type approval authorities of the member states of the European Union (TAAM) discussed the proper interpretation of the text of the Regulation in the case of seats with a central recess (sunken area) and decided that the text of the Regulation needed to be modified in order to provide an adequate method to measure the H dimension.

9. The expert from Germany also introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/31 correcting an error in the text of Regulation No. 107 and restricting the mandatory application of the requirements on pram spaces to vehicles of Class I. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/31 as reproduced in Annexes III and IV to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as part (see para. 7 above) of draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments and draft Supplement 5 to the 05 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG/2015/31 | Proposal for a Corrigendum to the 05 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 The aim of this corrigendum is to correct the text of the Regulation and to restrict the mandatory application of the requirements on dedicated areas for prams and pushchairs to Class I vehicles.

10. The expert from OICA presented ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/33 proposing amendments to the provisions on the activation of a fire alarm system. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/33 as reproduced in Annex III to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as part (see paras. 7 and 9 above) of draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG/2015/33 | Proposal for amendments to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Pursuant to the proposal to enable the use of autonomous compressed natural gas (CNG) heaters for the purpose of heating the engine coolant under UN R110, this proposal would require that the alarm system and fire suppression system (required through paragraph 7.5.1.5. as amended by Supplement 4 to 06 series of amendments) be activated as soon as the heater is in function and even if the engine is not operational.

11. The expert from UK presented ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/34 amending the safety prescriptions for buses and coaches to ensure that all occupants of exposed seats, and not just those at risk of being thrown forward into a step well, were provided with a means of protection. The expert from CLCCR underlined the need to also clarify the provisions for standing passengers. The experts from Canada and OICA endorsed that position. Following the discussion, GRSG noted general support on the proposal. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/34 as reproduced in Annex III to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as part (see paras. 7, 9 and 10 above) of draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107. GRSG agreed to resume, at its next session, consideration of updated provisions for standing passenger on the basis of a proposal by the expert from CLCCR.

GRSG/2015/34 | Proposal for amendments to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Incident reports confirm that occupants of exposed seats have been thrown forward during heavy braking or vehicle impact conditions, often sustaining head injuries from contact with the vehicle floor or other hard structure. Seats particularly affected are those located immediately to the rear of an open wheelchair or buggy space. This proposal aims to reduce this risk by extending existing requirements for exposed seats adjacent to step wells to apply to other exposed seats where there is a risk of the occupant being thrown forward.

12. The expert from Germany introduced GRSG-109-16 amending the requirements concerning the driver’s view on devices for indirect visions and permitted intrusions, based ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/14. GRSG adopted the proposed text as reproduced in Annexes III and IV to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as part (see paras. 7, 9, 10 and 11 above) of draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments and as part (see para. 9) of draft Supplement 5 to the 05 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG-109-16 | Proposal for amendments to the 05 and 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 UN R107 includes a provision to prevent a folding seat used by the crew from obstructing the view of the exterior rear-view mirror. GRSG approved the Netherlands proposal (document GRSG/2015/14) to apply this restriction to rear-view camera monitors. Germany submits, however, that because the positioning of monitors inside the vehicle differs from that of exterior mirrors, direct application of these requirements may result in positioning below the line of sight and therefore proposes to clarify the requirement to ensure safe installation of rear-view monitors and mirrors.

GRSG/2015/14 | Proposal for Supplement 3 to the 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 UN R107 includes a provision to prevent a folding seat used by the crew from obstructing the view of the exterior rear-view mirror. In light of the proposed amendment to introduce camera-monitor systems into UN R46 (indirect vision), this proposal would extend the same treatment to CMS used in the place of rear view mirrors.

13. GRSG welcomed a presentation by the expert from Hungary on the importance of statistical studies and the collection and evaluation of information on bus accidents (GRSG-109-03 and GRSG-109-26).

GRSG-109-03 | Brief introduction to statistical study of bus accidents Discussion of the state of accident statistics and other data to support the development of coach and bus safety requirements.

GRSG-109-26 | Introduction to the statistical study of bus accidents-Are the buses safe or not?

14. Recalling the purpose of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/18 presented at the previous GRSG session, the expert from Germany introduced GRSG-109-11 proposing revised provisions on emergency controls at service doors, specifically on the deactivation of emergency door controls when the vehicle moves to prevent doors from being opened. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/18 as reproduced in Annex III to the report and requested the secretariat to submit it to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as part (see paras. 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12 above) of draft Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 107.

GRSG-109-11 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal to clarify provisions concerning the deactivation of emergency door controls to prevent doors from being opened while the vehicle is in motion. The proposal specifies the focus on interior controls and would reduce the speed threshold for deactivation from 5 km/h to 3 km/h based on reports from bus operators.

GRSG/2015/18 | Proposal for amendments to the 05 and 06 series of amendments to Regulation No. 107 Proposal for a new paragraph 7.6.5.2. in Annex 3 to clarify that deactivation of emergency controls at speeds lower than 5 km/h should be permitted taking into consideration that the opening in emergency is ensured according to the provisions of paragraph 7.6.5.1. Paragraph 7.6.5.2. is renumbered and amended to correct the speed at which the control has to be reactivated. The amended paragraphs align the requirements to those on overnight-locking systems.

15. The expert from Japan presented ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/25 amending the requirements for fire prevention under certain conditions in the event of a rear collision. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/25 as reproduced below and requested the secretariat to submit it to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 1 to the 03 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 34.

Annex 4, paragraph 2.5.4., amend to read:
“2.5.4. At the moment of collision the velocity of the centre of percussion of the pendulum shall be between 48 and 52 km/h.”

GRSG/2015/25 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 34 Proposal to correct an oversight by aligning the “alternative procedures” provisions of the regulation with the previously adopted amendment of the regulation that raised the rear-impact speed to between 48 and 52 km/h (03 series of amendments).

16. The expert from India introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/26 proposing to harmonize the scope of UN Regulation No. 34 and to amend the total permissible mass limit to read “2.5 tonnes” instead of “2.8 tonnes”. The expert from Japan raised concerns in the absence of evidence on the need for such an amendment. GRSG endorsed the suggestion by the expert from EC to review the proposal by India, once the application of the 03 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 34 would become mandatory in the European Union. GRSG agreed to remove, in the meantime, this item from the agenda.

GRSG/2015/26 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 34 Proposal to align the draft 03 series (document WP.29/2014/65) with other UN Regulations and Indian standards by limiting the upper weight threshold of the total permissible mass of M1 and N1 vehicles to 2.5 tonnes (rather than the current 2.8 tonnes).

17. Referring to the role of his organization, the expert from FIA recalled the purpose of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/16 proposing further provisions on the protection against mileage fraud. He introduced GRSG-109-04 justifying the need to establish an informal working group (IWG) on anti-tampering measures for electronic vehicle interfaces, such as odometer, and underlining the need to cope, in a more general manner, with risks of in-vehicle technologies and cyber security. His proposal to set up an IWG received the support of a number of experts. However, some other experts felt it was too premature to set up such an IWG as WP.29 already established, under its IWG on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), a subgroup on “Automated Driving” dealing with this subject among others. Therefore, they preferred to start on the basis of an expert group first. The expert from FIA volunteered to organize in the near future a Task Force meeting in Paris. Thus, he invited all interested experts to contact him (lpascotto@fia.com).

GRSG-109-04 | Comments on informal document GRSG-108-38 on Regulation No. 39 FIA responses to question raised by OICA's critique of the proposed odometer requirements and the ensuring discussion during the May 2015 GRSG session.

18. The expert from EC presented GRSG-109-13 proposing to amend the requirements for numeric displays of speedometers. GRSG noted general support of the proposal. The expert from UK stated that some vehicles of category L should be added. GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session on the basis of an official document to be submitted by the expert from EC, taking into account the comments received.

GRSG-109-13 | Proposal for amendments to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 39 Proposal to allow for the approval of speedometers and odometers that display figures either in km/h or mph (but not both simultaneously) provided that the driver is enabled to select between the metric or imperial measurement display modes.

19. Recalling the discussion on ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/3 at the previous GRSG session, the expert from CLEPA announced his intention to submit, jointly with OICA and for consideration at the next GRSG session, a revised set of provisions for a well-defined vision zone of vehicles of categories M and N other than M1, aimed at allowing a better transmission of electromagnetic signals.

GRSG/2015/3 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 43 Proposal to define a reduced vision zone I for vehicles of categories M and N other than M₁.

20. The expert from Hungary presented GRSG-109-10 justifying the amendments to UN Regulation No. 43, proposed in ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/4 and aimed at clarifying the use of thick glass panes for multiple glazed units. He especially wondered why the headform test was applicable for multiple glazing, but not necessarily for single pans. The expert from Germany explained that the mechanical properties of single pans of safety glazing were different than those of multiple-glazed pans and, therefore, the single pans did not necessarily need to be tested for critical values in case of head impacts. Following the discussion, GRSG agreed to remove ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/4 from its agenda.

GRSG-109-10 | Supplement to document GRSG/2015/4 (UN Regulation No. 43) Clarification that the proposal to exclude multi-layer glazed windows from the head impact requirements of UN R43 does not directly relate to the work or recommendations of the Informal Group on Plastic Glazing.

GRSG/2015/4 | Proposal for a Supplement to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 43 This proposal aims to enable the use of thick glass panes for multiple glazed units which, in turn, requires exempting such configurations from the head-form test.

21. Referring to the discussion at the previous session of GRSG, the expert from Hungary introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/22 clarifying the requirements on the abrasion test machine. The experts from Germany informed GRSG about the status of work in ISO and announced that the corresponding ISO standard was in the process of being finalized and would hopefully be published by the end of the year. GRSG agreed to resume consideration of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/22 at its next session in April 2016.

GRSG/2015/22 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 43 Proposal to clarify the specification of the abrasion test machine.

22. GRSG noted that the draft amendments to UN Regulation No. 46 introducing the optional replacement of mirrors of Classes I to IV by camera-monitor systems has been submitted as ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/84 to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their November 2015 sessions. Thus, the secretariat reported that the Working Party on Passive Safety (GRSP) considered and adopted the proposal for corresponding amendments to UN Regulation No. 94 (Frontal collision protection) and its submission to WP.29 and AC.1 at their November 2015 sessions. GRSG also noted that the Working Party on Brakes and Running Gear (GRRF) considered and adopted the proposal for corresponding amendments to UN Regulation No. 79 (Steering equipment) and its submission to WP.29 and AC.1 at its March 2016 sessions and that the Working Party on Lighting and Light-Signalling (GRE) was expected to consider ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRE/2015/35 proposing amendments to UN Regulation No. 10 (Electromagnetic compatibility) at its forthcoming session in October 2015.

23. The expert from OICA introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/23 proposing to clarify the provisions for fully integrated surveillance mirrors. GRSG adopted the proposal and requested the secretariat to submit it to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 3 to the 04 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 46.

GRSG/2015/23 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 46 Proposal to clarify that fully integrated surveillance mirrors may be mounted below 2 metres in cases where they are integrated in a housing including one or more Class II or III mirrors.

24. The expert from Japan gave a presentation on the results of a national study on fatal accidents of pedestrians with motor vehicles at low speed (GRSG-109-20). He concluded that a possible solution to avoid such accidents could be new requirements to ensure the driver’s view on the proximity area of his vehicle. On behalf of the Task Force (TF) on UN Regulation No. 46, he reported on the progress made during the recent TF meeting held prior to the GRSG session. He informed GRSG about the TF decision to go forward with a two-step approach: (i) fully harmonize UN Regulation No. 46 without the close proximity vision area and (ii) subsequently develop new requirements for the close proximity vision area. He announced the intention of Japan to continue to further study accident data and to share the results with the TF. GRSG welcomed the detailed information received. GRSG endorsed the decision of the TF and agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session in April 2016.

GRSG-109-20 | Study of pedestrian fatalities in low-speed vehicle accidents in Japan Presentation on low-speed vulnerable road user accidents, especially to the sides and rear of the vehicle, suggesting need for rear-view countermeasures (e.g., UN R46).

25. The expert from UK recalled the purpose of GRSG-108-32 on exemptions in UN Regulations Nos. 58 and 73. He announced to revert back to GRSG at its next session with a concrete proposal for amendments to UN Regulation No. 73 to ensure that as many vehicles as possible were fitted with rear underrun protection and side guards. GRSG agreed to remove the agenda item and to resume, at the next session, consideration of this subject under the corresponding agenda item on UN Regulation No. 73.

GRSG-108-32 | Draft amendments to UN Regulations Nos. 58 and 73 UN Regulations Nos. 58 and 73 contain exemptions which can be applied by an approval authority and we are concerned that a vehicle which is correctly approved using such an exemption cannot then be required to have an RUPD or sideguards. The UK seeks the views of GRSG on how the wording of the exemptions may be improved to ensure that as many vehicles as possible are fitted with RUPD and sideguards.

26. Recalling the discussion on this subject (GRSG-108-47) at the previous session of GRSG, the expert from IMMA introduced GRSG-109-18 amending the requirements for the identification of controls, tell-tales and indicators on two-wheeled motorcycles and mopeds. He underlined the urgent need to align in this way the provisions of UN Regulation No. 60 with those of UN Regulation No. 121. On an exceptional basis, GRSG adopted the proposal as reproduced in Annex V to the report and requested the secretariat to submit it to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their June 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 5 to UN Regulation No. 60, subject to a final review by GRSG at its next session in April 2016.

GRSG-109-18 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 60 Revised proposal, taking into account comments from the previous GRSG session, to allow for small variations in the presentation of motorcycle telltales and control symbols that do not deviate to such an extent as to cause confusion.

27. The expert from AEGPL gave a presentation (GRSG-109-15) justifying the insertion into UN Regulation No. 67 of new provisions to prevent a flow of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) into the petrol or diesel tank, and vice versa (ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/35). The expert from Spain raised concerns on the possible interpretation of the new provisions and preferred clear test requirements. The experts from France and Sweden endorsed that position. The expert from Germany introduced GRSG-109-12 proposing some improved text to ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/35. He raised concerns on the possible leakage of the different fuel types and questioned the need to install redundant valves.

28. Following the discussion, the expert from AEGPL introduced GRSG-109-21 superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/35. The experts from France and Spain raised a study reservation. Thus, GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session on the basis of a revised proposal by AEGPL, taking into account the comments received.

GRSG-109-12 | Proposal for amendments to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 67 Proposal to revise the AEGPL proposal concerning dual fuel systems (GRSG/2015/35). The proposal introduces ISO 26262:2011 (functional safety of electric/electronic systems) as the basis for assessing safety functions. Germany proposes to require resistance against diesel fuel in addition to petrol fuel (Annex 18). Furthermore, the proposal would require manufacturers to provide a full listing of the parts incorporated within the system to ensure that testing services and approval authorities have a clear understanding of any elements that may be safety-related.

GRSG-109-15 | AEGPL presentation on the proposed 01 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 67 Presentation on the proposal to allow for limited flows of petrol into the LPG tank of dual fuel vehicles.

GRSG-109-21 | Proposal for amendments to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 67 Proposal to amend UN R67 to allow for limited flows of petrol into the LPG tank of dual fuel vehicles, taking into account comments received during the 109th GRSG session.

GRSG/2015/35 | Proposal for amendments to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 67 Proposal to amend UN R67 to allow for limited flows of petrol into the LPG tank of dual fuel vehicles.

29. The expert from ISO presented GRSG-109-14 on the progress of work within the ISO working group on refueling connector and fuel components for vehicles propelled by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). He underlined the request from original equipment manufacturers to update UN Regulation No. 67 with respect to LPG fuel lines and welding requirements.

GRSG-109-14 | ISO/TC22/SC41: Specific aspects for gaseous fuels

30. Recalling the purpose of GRSG-108-32 presented at the previous session of GRSG as well as the discussion of GRSG under agenda item 7 (para. 24 above) on UN Regulation No. 58, the expert from UK introduced GRSG-109-17 proposing to delete paragraph 1.2.2. from the scope of the Regulation to ensure that as many vehicles as possible were fitted with a lateral protection device. The proposal received general support on the principles. However, a number of experts raised concerns on the application of a number of exemptions for special purpose vehicles listed in the Regulation. GRSG noted that such vehicles could be exempted by national/regional legislation.

31. GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session and requested the secretariat to circulate GRSG-109-17 with an official symbol.

GRSG-109-17 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 73 Proposal to delete the exclusion of "vehicles designed and constructed for special purposes where it is not possible, for practical reasons, to fit lateral protection devices" from the text. The UK submits that paragraphs 13 and 16 provide specific provisions that address this situation whereas the exclusion clause allows for a broader interpretation that unnecessarily limits the use of lateral protection devices.

32. Referring to his presentation (GRSG-109-14) given under agenda item 8 (para. 28 above), the expert from ISO volunteered to submit for the next GRSG session an official document proposing to amend the provisions of Annex 4B of UN Regulation No. 110, including the correction of some errors in Annexes 4A and 4H.

GRSG-109-14 | ISO/TC22/SC41: Specific aspects for gaseous fuels

33. The expert from Japan introduced GRSG-109-08 (superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/27) proposing to remove from UN Regulation No. 110 the provisions for welded constructions of compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders or metal liners, including high-strength steel CNG cylinders. The proposal received a number of comments on the need for performance oriented requirements and the transitional provisions. Instead of adopting the proposal as a new 03 series of amendments, GRSG preferred to defer the adoption by WP.29 of the draft 02 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 110 (currently on the agenda of the November 2015 session of WP.29 as ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/90) to its March 2016 session to insert the amendments proposed by Japan. GRSG endorsed the submission of a new consolidated proposal for the 02 series of amendments as reproduced in GRSG-109-22-Rev.1.

34. In this respect, GRSG adopted the proposed text as reproduced in Annex VI to the report. The secretariat was requested to submit the proposal to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as a new draft 02 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 110 (superseding ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/90).

GRSG-109-08 | Draft amendments to document GRSG/2015/27 Amendments by Japan to its proposal to remove the provisions for welded constructions of compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders or metal liners, including high-strength steel CNG cylinders.

GRSG-109-22/Rev.1 | Proposal for amendments to the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 110 Revised proposal as adopted by the 109th GRSG session to revise the provisions for welded constructions of compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders or metal liners, including high-strength steel CNG cylinders. This proposal has been integrated with the proposal to regulate the discharge direction of pressure relief devices on CNG containers adopted by the 108th session. This document will be submitted as a revision to WP.29/2015/90 at the November 2015 World Forum session.

GRSG/2015/27 | Proposal for the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 110 Proposal to remove the provisions for welded constructions of compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders or metal liners, including high-strength steel CNG cylinders.

35. The expert from OICA shortly introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/36 on autonomous CNG heaters for the heating of the engines, but he preferred to have a detailed consideration of the proposal at the next session of GRSG. GRSG endorsed that suggestion.

GRSG/2015/36 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 110 Proposal to enable the use of autonomous CNG heaters for the heating of engines before the vehicle is in service.

36. GRSG noted that the draft amendments to UN Regulations Nos. 97 and 116, aimed at removing additional vehicle lighting not in compliance with UN Regulation No. 48, had been submitted as ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/87 and ECE/TRANS/WP.29/2015/91 to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their November 2015 sessions.

37. Recalling the purpose of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/7 tabled at the previous GRSG session, the expert from OICA announced his intention to provide further evidence on this subject for consideration at the next session of GRSG. GRSG agreed to reconsider GRSG-108-49 under agenda item 17 (para. 51 below).

GRSG/2015/7 | Proposal for draft amendments to Regulation No. 116 UN R116 specifies operating voltages and voltage limits. Current technology and intelligent battery management systems allow for precise control and definition of these parameters. This includes “intelligent” operating ranges in order to optimize energy management (CO2 emission reduction). Fixed operating voltage ranges are therefore unnecessary or even may hinder efforts for CO2 emission reduction in the future. This proposal would allow varying operating voltage ranges according to the battery technology used to remove this restriction impact such advanced designs.

38. The expert from Germany introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/29 and Corr.1 aimed at clarifying the scope and updating the reference to ISO standards as well as the test requirements for electric cables in UN Regulation No. 118. The expert from Finland proposed to correct a reference error in Annex 4, Appendix 1 (GRSG-109-06).

39. GRSG adopted both proposals and requested the secretariat to submit them to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 2 to the 02 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 118.

GRSG-109-06 | Proposal for Corrigendum to the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 118 Correction to the type-approval communication form. Paragraph 6.6.2. does not exist in the Regulation No. 118. The form evidently should read Paragraph 6.2.2.

GRSG/2015/29 | Proposal for Supplement 2 to the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 118 Proposal to clarify the scope and the application of the regulation. The proposal clarifies that the provisions concern any cable used in the entire vehicle, not only to those in the interior compartment, engine compartment and separate heater compartment. The proposal also clarifies that the regulation applies not only to electric cables, but also to cable sleeves or cable conduits and it updates the reference to paragraph 5.22. of ISO 6722-1:2011. Specifically, the proposal would apply testing to electric cables, cable sleeves, and cable conduits that exceed a length of 100 mm.

GRSG/2015/29/Corr.1 | Corrigendum to the proposal for Supplement 2 to the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 118 Editorial corrections to the proposal to clarify the scope and the application of the regulation with regard to cable provisions.

40. The expert from Germany also introduced GRSG-109-09 (superseding document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/28) proposing to insert, as a further improvement of the provisions of UN Regulation No. 118, new test requirements for electric cables sleeves and cable conduits. The proposal received a general support. The expert from OICA suggested clarifying the proposed text of paragraph 1.2. GRSG agreed to have a final review of the proposed transitional provisions at the next session of GRSG and requested the secretariat to circulate GRSG-109-09, as revised, with an official symbol.

GRSG-109-09 | Proposal for the 03 series of amendments to Regulation No. 118 This proposal supersedes document GRSG/2015/28 which would apply testing only to any electric cables, cable sleeves, and cable conduits that exceed a length of 100 mm. Germany's proposal is for the World Forum to first adopt the sister proposal in document GRSG/2015/29, clarifying the scope and application of UN R118 with regard to cables, and then adopt this present proposal in a subsequent stage as a new series of amendments to UN R118.

GRSG/2015/28 | Proposal for the 03 series of amendments to Regulation No. 118 Proposal to clarify the scope and the application of the regulation. The proposal clarifies that the regulation applies to “the burning behaviour of electric cables and cable sleeves or cable conduits used in the vehicle” and it updates the reference to paragraph 5.22. of ISO 6722-1:2011. Specifically, the proposal would apply testing to electric cables, cable sleeves, and cable conduits that exceed a length of 100 mm.

41. The expert from OICA withdrew ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2014/12.

42. On behalf of the IWG on Accident Emergency Call Systems (AECS), the expert from the Russian Federation introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/24 proposing to insert into UN Regulation No. 121 a new symbol for the emergency call control and tell-tale. The expert from OICA announced his intention to submit, for consideration at the next GRSG session, a clarification of the proposed symbol.

43. GRSG agreed to keep the document on the agenda and to have a final review of ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/24 at the April 2016 session. It was also agreed to submit the proposal to amend UN Regulation No. 121 in parallel with the new draft Regulation on AECS (para. 50 below).

GRSG/2015/24 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 121 Proposal to add a telltale and symbols for “Accident Emergency Call System (AECS)”.

44. Referring to GRSG-108-33, the expert from UK announced to present, at the next session of GRSG, the results of an investigation on the in-use provisions and the absence of an appropriate field of view requirement for drivers of N1 vehicles. GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session.

GRSG-108-33 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 125 An accident occurred where an N1 security vehicle fatally injured a child who was crossing the entrance to a supermarket car park. The vehicle had been modified from the original specification of the manufacturer by the removal of the side windows and the fitting of plastic glazing on both sides of the driver’s cab area, and a frame of strengthening material fitted to the replacement glazing. This reduced the side vision for the driver of the vehicle. Since UN R125 applies to M1 vehicles, the UK seeks guidance from GRSG on the application of UN R125 provisions to N1 vehicles.

45. The expert from Germany presented GRSG-109-23-Rev.1 (superseding document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/8) introducing new requirements for the indirect view of the driver in case vehicles were equipped with camera-monitor systems. GRSG adopted ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/8 as reproduced in Annex VII and requested the secretariat to submit it to WP.29 and AC.1 for consideration at their March 2016 sessions, as draft Supplement 1 to the 01 series of amendments to UN Regulation No. 125.

46. In this respect, GRSG intended to promote the introduction of camera-monitor systems (CMS) in vehicles of category M1 also by allowing for a temporary period an obstruction in the direct field of view of the driver by the installation of a monitor in place of a mirror. GRSG agreed to remove this temporary exemption such that the Contracting Parties shall not be obliged to accept, as from 1 September 2021, approvals based on the new paragraph 5.1.3.2. of UN Regulation No. 125.

GRSG-109-23/Rev.1 | Proposal for a Supplement to the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 125 Revised proposal, pursuant to the discussions at the 109th GRSG session, to modify UN R125 in line with the proposed amendment to UN R46 (indirect vision) that introduces the use of camera-monitor systems (CMS) in place of rear-view mirrors (i.e., document GRSG/2015/2). This proposal is part of a package of proposals to amend the UN Regulations impacted by the amendment to UN R46 and would extend the provisions for rear-view mirrors to CMS devices.

47. The expert from the Russian Federation, chairing the IWG on AECS, reported on the work results achieved by the group (GRSG-109-24). He informed GRSG about the decision of the IWG to limit the scope of the new draft UN Regulation on AECS, not covering the telecommunication functionalities. He added that the IWG would resume consideration of the manual triggering of the AECS. In this respect, he sought the advice of GRSG on the possibility to switch-off AECS and to mandate or permit in the installation requirements a switch-off button. He announced the intention of the IWG to submit a first proposal of the draft UN Regulation at the next GRSG on the basis of an informal document.

48. With respect to the possibility to switch-off AECS, GRSG was of the opinion to permit the installation of a switch-off button only in very limited cases, e.g. maintenance purposes, and not directly accessibly from the passenger compartment. The expert from EC informed GRSG on the still ongoing discussion in his organization on the same question but related to the European Union “eCall” system. He offered to keep GRSG and AECS informed once an agreement was found in Brussels.

49. As the mandate of the IWG on AECS was limited to October 2015 and due to the delay in the development of the new Regulation, the AECS Chair requested an extension of the mandate by one year, until October 2016. GRSG endorsed that request. The Chair of GRSG announced his request to seek the endorsement of WP.29 at the forthcoming November session.

50. GRSG recalled its discussion under agenda item 14 (paras. 42-43 above) on a new symbol for the emergency call control and tell-tale. Finally, GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session, awaiting a first proposal of the draft UN Regulation on AECS.

GRSG-109-24 | Progress report of GRSG informal group on Accident Emergency Call Systems (AECS)

51. The expert from OICA, in his capacity of GRSG Ambassador to the IWG on IWVTA, informed GRSG about the progress made during the recent meetings of the IWGs (GRSG-109-25). He recalled the remaining open issue of the clarification of the scope of UN Regulation No. 116 (GRSG-104-39-Rev.3 and GRSG-108-49).

52. A number of experts were of the opinion that the installation on vehicles of categories M1 and N1 of an immobilizer or antitheft devices was mandatory, but the installation of the alarm systems was considered as optional. As paragraph 1.8. of UN Regulation No. 116 (including its recommendation under footnote 3/) was subject to the choice of application by the Contracting Parties and therefore not clear, GRSG welcomed the suggestion by the expert from OICA to set up a specific Task Force to clarify this subject. The Chair invited all interested experts to contact the GRSG Ambassador (e-mail: ofontaine@oica.net). GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session in April 2016.

GRSG-104-39/Rev.3 | Priority of Discussion on Technical Requirements for IWVTA under the purview of GRSG

GRSG-108-49 | Proposal for amendments to Regulation No. 116 Proposal developed by the IWVTA informal group to highlight concerns over the ambiguity of Regulation No. 116, especially with regard to whether the installation of vehicle immobilizer systems is mandatory. IWVTA is requesting WP.29 for clarification and resolution of the ambiguous provisions and interpretations.

GRSG-109-25 | Report to GRSG from ambassador to IWVTA

53. The expert from IMMA rapidly introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2015/30 proposing to insert into the R.E.3 a definition of “twinned wheels”. He added that his organization was still considering the categories of vehicles concerned and he suggested deferring the discussion on this subject. He announced the submission of an informal document with further details for consideration at the next GRSG session.

GRSG/2015/30 | Proposal for amendments to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles Proposal to introduce a definition for "twinned wheels".

54. Recalling the discussion on this subject at the previous GRSG session, the expert from UK acknowledged that the use of Event Data Recorder was probably not the correct terminology and could be misleading. GRSG noted the ongoing discussions in WP.29 on “autonomous vehicles” and the progress of work done by the IWG on ITS and specifically by its subgroup on Automated Driving (ITS/AD). The expert from Germany underlined the importance to exchange view in GRSG on this specific subject. He stressed the need to develop a new Regulation on optional installation on vehicles of such devices and to define the technical parameters to be stored, including the access and security of the data. GRSG endorsed that position and agreed that such an activity should be coordinated with ITS/AD and other Working Parties involved in automated driving activities, such as GRRF.

55. The expert from UK volunteered to prepare a concrete proposal on the possible distribution of these tasks within the subsidiary bodies of WP.29, for consideration at the next GRSG session. GRSG noted that the forthcoming meeting of ITS/AD was scheduled to be held in Geneva on 3 November 2015 (afternoon only).

56. The expert from the Republic of Korea, chairing the IWG on Panoramic Sunroof Glazing (PSG), reported on the outcome of the second meeting held in Geneva on 28 September 2015. He added that all the working papers as well as the meetings minutes were available on the website (www2.unece.org/wiki/display/trans/2nd+PSG+meeting). He informed GRSG that the group had agreed to supplement the Terms of Reference (adopted by GRSG at its previous session and reproduced in Annex V of the report ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/88) as follows:
Paragraph 3.1.(d), amend to read:

“(d) Develop amendments to UN GTR No. 6 and a complementing proposal to UN Regulation No. 43 in order to further clarify appropriate methods of testing and evaluating the mechanical strength of toughened glass with a focus on safety glazing and to specify the full scope of glass applications.”

57. GRSG welcomed the progress of work done by the IWG on PSG and endorsed the above-mentioned amendment to the Terms of Reference. Thus, GRSG agreed to only clarify the current scope of the Global Technical Regulation (GTR) and that there was no intention to enlarge the scope of the GTR, e.g. to include plastic glazing.

58. GRSG noted the intention of the IWG to convene again on 24 February 2016. It was agreed to resume consideration of this subject at the next GRSG session.

59. The expert from Germany informed GRSG about recent negotiations with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to obtain detailed drawings and technical specifications referred to in UN regulations. He added that a further meeting was scheduled to be held in October 2015 and that he would keep WP.29 informed about the final conclusion at its November 2015 session. He concluded that GRSP would resume, at its December 2015 session, consideration on harmonized specifications of the 3D H-point machine and that he would report back to GRSG on this subject at its next session.

60. In compliance with Rule 37 of the Rules of Procedure (TRANS/WP.29/690 as amended by Amendments 1 and 2), GRSG called for the election of officers on Wednesday afternoon, 1 October 2015. Mr. A. Erario (Italy) was unanimously re-elected as Chair and Mr. K. Hendershot (Canada) was unanimously elected as Vice-Chair for the GRSG sessions scheduled for the year 2016.

61. GRSG noted the information by the secretariat about the forthcoming workshop for sustainable mobility and the mitigation of climate change, scheduled to be held in Bordeaux (France) on 7 October 2015 (GRSG-109-07).

GRSG-109-07 | ITS workshop on sustainable mobility and the mitigation of climate change UN co-sponsored conference in Bordeaux, France on the application of intelligent transport systems and mobility services to increase transport efficiencies and road safety.

62. The expert from Germany informed GRSG about the outcome of a study carried out by the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) on blind spot accidents of heavy goods vehicles. GRSG welcomed the information and the results of the study. GRSG noted general support to develop a new regulation on the installation on heavy goods vehicles of driver assistance systems to avoid blind spot accidents.

63. The expert from Germany announced his intention to submit to GRSG a proposal for such a new regulation, for consideration at the next GRSG session. GRSG agreed to keep GRSG-109-19 as a reference document under a new agenda item on the development of a new regulation on Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS).

64. GRSG noted that Mr. Masahito Yamashita (Japan) would no longer attend the sessions and acknowledged his continued support during the recent years of participation in GRSG. GRSG wished him all the best for his future activities.

65. Learning that Mr. Matyas Matolcsy (Hungary) was retiring, GRSG thanked him for his considerable contributions over the last four decades to the activities of GRSG and especially his dedication since 2001 as Vice-Chair of GRSG. GRSG recognized his commitments with a long applause and wished him a long and happy retirement.