Proposal to update the definition of “key” in line with technological progress and clarifying that a “key” is specifically a means for access, not an anti-theft system.

52. The expert from OICA presented GRSG-117-31 amending ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2019/07 to amend the definition of keys that take account of innovative vehicle alarms systems, such as silent alarm or door-unlocking using smart phone. GRSG agreed that further work was needed and to this end considered establishment of a task force. Experts of France, Germany, Netherlands and United Kingdom showed interest in this work.

Proposal to redefine “key” to include “physical device or electronic solution”. At the same time, the proposal excludes “hardware (e.g. smartphone) provided by other than car manufacturer” from this definition.

48. The expert from OICA introduced ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2019/7 to amend the definition of keys that take account of innovative vehicle alarms systems, such as silent alarm or door-unlocking using smart phone. She underlined the need to distinguish between a key as an electronic solution and as hardware/software used to transfer this electronic solution. Several experts raised concerns on security issues of already existing keys and locking systems. GRSG agreed on the urgent need to work on cybersecurity issues of such new innovative keys for locking/unlocking. The Chair invited all experts to share their thoughts with the expert from OICA and to send her their proposals. GRSG agreed to resume consideration of this subject at its next session based on a revised official document by OICA which took account of the comments received.

52. The expert from OICA presented GRSG-117-31 amending ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2019/07 to amend the definition of keys that take account of innovative vehicle alarms systems, such as silent alarm or door-unlocking using smart phone. GRSG agreed that further work was needed and to this end considered establishment of a task force. Experts of France, Germany, Netherlands and United Kingdom showed interest in this work.

37. The expert from Germany introduced document GRSG-118-10, containing the position of Germany concerning the objectives of UN Regulation No. 116, including the proposal for supplement 7 to UN Regulation No. 116 as proposed through document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/GRSG/2019/7, presented at a previous session of GRSG, and its interlinkages with the upcoming regulation on cyber security. He invited GRSG to request an assessment of the expected significance of the upcoming cyber security regulation for the envisaged amendments to UN Regulation No. 116 via the GRVA Secretary at the Task Force on R116 Key.

38. The expert from OICA informed GRSG about the progress of work and discussions that had taken place at meetings of the Task Force on R116 KEY. She recommended that document GRSG-117-31-Rev.1 is issued as an official document for consideration at the next meeting of GRSG in October 2020.

39. Following detailed technical discussions, further comments from experts from Germany, Netherlands, Sweden and OICA, GRSG invited the Task Force on R116 KEY to proceed with the activities at its next session in September 2020, invited Contracting Parties to provide leadership to the Task Force, agreed to continue discussions concerning this matter at upcoming GRSG sessions and requested the secretariat to issue GRSG-117-31-Rev.1 as an official document for consideration at its next session in October 2020 as well as to consult GRVA on the questions at hand, as proposed by the representative of Germany, at the upcoming session of GRVA in September 2020.

53. The expert from OICA presented GRSG-117-29 providing an overview of the splitting of UN Regulation No. 116 into three new regulations on (i) anti-theft and alarm systems, (ii) on devices against unauthorized use and (iii) on approvals of immobilizers and vehicle with regards to its immobilizer.

54. GRSG agreed to resume consideration on this item at its next session in March 2020.