Road user charging requires the retrofit of on-board equipment (OBE) to existing vehicles at present, but as charging schemes become more commonplace both in the UK and across Europe, motor vehicle manufacturers will begin integrating technology within their cars to facilitate easier enrolment for scheme users.

This integration will initially comprise the provision of power, antenna and sensor data at a single point within the vehicle for “snap-in” install of a road charging “tag”, be that using GPS, DSRC or both. Later, vehicle manufacturers will deliver cars with “OBE-inside”, most likely once a standard pan-European road user charging system becomes a viable proposition (through the work of EETS in respect of EC Directive 52/2001).

Building Capital already has experience in working with a number of major vehicle manufacturers and component suppliers in respect of retrofitting OBE, utilising existing vehicle systems (such as the CAN-bus and Tachograph), and advising of the likely requirements of present and future charging schemes in respect of technology, ergonomics and opportunity for value added services.

We also provide specialist test and validation services to industry to ensure that whatever in-line manufacture strategy is pursued for “OBE-inside” integration, its future performance is quantifiable and its risk reduced given the costly and protracted process involved on behalf of the motor manufacturer.