The Smart #3 EV has received the UNECE R155 cybersecurity and R156 software upgrade VTA E1 certification, becoming the first domestic vehicle in China to achieve this recognition.

The certification, issued by the German Ministry of Transport (KBA), signifies that smart's vehicle network security and software upgrade technology adhere to international market regulations, meet the European Union's requirements for new vehicles, and provide technical compliance assurances for the brand's global operations between China and Europe.

What are the regulations for?

UNECE Regulations No. 155 and No. 156 are a set of rules that outline how vehicles should handle cybersecurity and software updates. These regulations make it mandatory for vehicle manufacturers to have a system in place to manage cybersecurity and software updates.

It's an important part of the process where vehicles are approved to be sold, and it ensures that the vehicles meet certain legal requirements to protect against cybersecurity threats and keep their software up to date.

Also read: Smart EV could receive a USD 200m investment from China's Tianqi Lithium

Mr. Yang Jun, Vice President of Research and Development at smart Automobile, expressed his satisfaction with the certification, stating that it highlights the brand's technical prowess in complying with the latest EU market regulations for cybersecurity and software upgrades. He emphasised the importance of continuously upgrading products throughout the vehicle lifecycle, particularly in the era of "software-defined vehicles."

Also read: Proton confirms Smart #3 will be launched in Malaysia, Smart #1 on track for Q4 2023 launch

Mr. Ren Jun, President of TÜV NORD Asia-Pacific, congratulated smart on being the first in China to be awarded the UNECE R155 and R156-VTA E1 certification: “The certification represents that smart's technical strength in cybersecurity and software upgrades is officially recognized by mainstream European certification authorities, and complies with the latest international regulatory requirements, which is seldom seen anywhere in the world currently.

“Meanwhile, now in the era of intelligent networking, this certification is the leading standard in the field of vehicle network security and software upgrades, contributing to the joint advancement of industry technology and regulation,” he added.

In Malaysia, the Smart #3 has been confirmed for Malaysia. Proton announced that its subsidiary Pro-Net will be launching the Smart #1 by Q4 2023, followed by the Smart #3 after the model is launched in China and Europe. EON and Hap Seng have also been appointed as dealers.

Also read: Also coming to Malaysia, priced like a Honda CR-V: 2023 Smart #3 EV launched in China