Earlier this month, we attended a working conference in Canberra to discuss further improvements the recently updated Rover Portal (where OEMs submit applications for new vehicle types/variations to existing vehicles types). The portal has been subject to widespread automotive industry criticism over the last three years.

An expert group of nine representatives across bus, truck and car sectors determined a priority list to further improve the portal. This focused on two key areas. RVD (Road Vehicle Descriptor) and Data Sheets.

How does this help our industry?

For suppliers: The proposed re-introduction of datasheets provides a more transparent method to share information on the variations offered under a Vehicle Type Approval or Component Type approval. For example, different drivetrain power or transmission options, rather than just the highest power option. Currently, the system only permits the highest option to be seen. This makes it easier when registering the vehicle as the registering authority can view the data sheet for options, rather than questioning or rejecting a registration.

For operators: Registration is less likely to be delayed. Importantly, should the vehicle be modified at some point during its lifetime (e.g., bulbar, trailer, etc.), this can be facilitated easier. How? The modifying engineer can easily see required information for a modification in the Rover portal, thus removing in many cases weeks or months of chasing down data from suppliers.

Next steps
The government is now assessing these priorities as a body of work with timing to introduce.

Left: Rover Portal proposed prioritie