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In the automotive industry, vehicle approval processes are conducted through homologation tests. In this article, we provide an in-depth examination of homologation tests in automotive certification processes.
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Automotive Certification Requirements
Certification is essential whenever a product is manufactured in the automotive sector. While certification opens the way for component manufacturers to become approved suppliers, it also allows vehicle manufacturers to sell their products in the relevant market.
Manufacturers are required to meet multiple certification standards. Among the most prominent are automotive standards like IATF 16949 or quality management systems such as ISO 9001.
These certifications are focused on quality-related processes.
Another type of certification involves the homologation process, which is necessary for the mass production of a vehicle or component.
Certification Requirements for Components
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) require components to undergo the necessary homologation tests to be included in their supply chain. Component manufacturers, therefore, carry out certification processes tailored to the needs of their products.
For example, an automotive glass manufacturer must conduct homologation tests in compliance with the UN ECE R43 regulation to be part of a vehicle manufacturer’s supply chain. Production must align with the regulatory requirements. After completing this, the product can either be sold across the industry or targeted at a specific manufacturer.
Another example is air conditioning systems for buses. Depending on the needs of bus manufacturers, the air conditioner must meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements under the UN ECE R10 regulation. If the component is a heater, it must comply with both UN ECE R10 and UN ECE R122.
By meeting these requirements, the manufacturer not only enhances its competitive advantage in the sector but also improves the quality of its processes and products.
Homologation Tests for Vehicle Manufacturers
Vehicle manufacturers are obligated to complete certification processes based on the mandatory regulations applicable to their vehicles. This is a complex and long-term process, which typically requires either an internal homologation team or collaboration with a consultancy firm.
The first step is to determine which homologation tests are required based on the vehicle category.
For example, a caravan manufacturer in the O2 category must comply with approximately ten regulations. These include topics such as rear registration plates, mudguards, glass, EMC, brakes, couplings, mandatory labels, lighting, Rear Underrun Protection (RUP), tires, and general safety. These requirements may vary depending on the vehicle design.
A comprehensive information document must be submitted to an accredited technical service for evaluation under the applicable regulations.
Following the inspections carried out by the accredited technical service and the assessments conducted by the approval authority, the certification process is completed.
The accredited technical service performs the homologation tests either in a laboratory or at the manufacturer’s location, depending on the need.
Homologation Tests for Conformity of Production (COP)
Manufacturers of components or vehicles must conduct homologation tests periodically or on specific production batches as part of Conformity of Production (COP) requirements.
For example, a brand that produces 1,200 vehicles per year might plan to conduct homologation tests on 12 vehicles annually.
In COP processes, a 1% testing ratio is generally accepted for vehicle manufacturers. A more detailed article will cover all the requirements related to COP.
Who Can Conduct Homologation Tests?
The homologation process involves multiple stakeholders, primarily laboratories and accredited technical services.
Technical services authorized by approval bodies to perform specific tests are responsible for conducting homologation tests. It is crucial to ensure that the technical service is authorized to carry out the specific test required.
For instance, if a technical service is not authorized to conduct ECE R10 tests, it cannot perform those tests.
Laboratories are classified as either accredited or non-accredited. Tests can be conducted in accredited laboratories with the participation of technical service personnel. In non-accredited laboratories, technical services conduct inspections before tests are performed, subject to approval by the approval authority.
Personnel authorized within technical services are generally given the title of “homologation expert,” based on their competencies.
Authorized Technical Services by Country
Vehicles can be approved under both United Nations and European Union regulations. In this context, some regulations are classified under EU regulations, while others fall under UN regulations.
To proceed, manufacturers must identify the approval bodies authorized to grant approval in these respective jurisdictions.
A component manufacturer can sell products within UN territories with a type approval certificate obtained from outside the EU. However, a vehicle manufacturer cannot sell vehicles within the EU with an approval obtained from outside the EU.
For a list of technical services authorized by the European Union, click here.
For a list of technical services authorized by the United Nations, click here.
Advantages of Consulting Services in Automotive Certification and Homologation Processes
If a manufacturer does not have an internal homologation team, it would be advantageous to seek consultancy services. Even OEMs are encouraged to consult experts for homologation processes in areas outside their expertise.
The primary advantage of hiring a consultant is the expertise and industry knowledge they bring. With their guidance, manufacturers can save both time and costs.
Consultants can also ease the workload by closely monitoring processes, and their know-how ensures higher-quality certification outcomes.
