Electronic fee collection – Evaluation of on-board and roadside equipment for conformity to EN 15509 – EN 15876:2025

EN 15876:2025 is a European standard that pertains to electronic fee collection (EFC) systems, specifically focusing on the evaluation of on-board equipment (OBE) and roadside equipment (RSE). This standard is crucial for ensuring interoperability among various manufacturers’ equipment, which is essential for the seamless operation of electronic toll collection systems across different regions and countries.

Scope of EN 15876:2025

The primary aim of EN 15876:2025 is to establish a comprehensive framework for testing and evaluating the conformity of OBE and RSE to the requirements set forth in EN 15509. This is particularly important in the context of electronic toll collection, where different systems must work together efficiently to facilitate the collection of tolls without the need for manual intervention. The standard outlines the necessary test suite structure and the specific test purposes that must be adhered to during the evaluation process.

Key Components of the Standard

1. Test Suite Structure: EN 15876:2025 provides a detailed description of the test suite structure that must be followed when evaluating EFC systems. This structure is designed to ensure that all relevant aspects of the equipment are tested, including functionality, performance, and interoperability. The test suite is organized in a way that allows for systematic testing of various components, ensuring that all necessary criteria are met.
2. Test Purposes: The standard specifies various test purposes that must be addressed during the evaluation of OBE and RSE. These test purposes are designed to assess the equipment’s compliance with the requirements of EN 15509, which includes aspects such as communication protocols, data exchange, and overall system performance. By clearly defining these test purposes, EN 15876:2025 helps to ensure that all equipment is evaluated consistently and thoroughly.
3. Interoperability: One of the primary goals of EN 15876:2025 is to promote interoperability among different manufacturers’ equipment. In the context of electronic toll collection, interoperability is essential for ensuring that vehicles equipped with OBE can communicate effectively with RSE, regardless of the manufacturer. This is particularly important in regions where multiple tolling systems may be in operation, as it allows for a seamless user experience for drivers.
4. Compliance and Certification: The standard also outlines the processes for compliance and certification of OBE and RSE. This includes the requirements for testing laboratories and the qualifications necessary for personnel conducting the evaluations. By establishing clear guidelines for compliance and certification, EN 15876:2025 helps to ensure that only equipment meeting the necessary standards is deployed in the field.
5. Updates and Revisions: As technology evolves and new challenges arise in the field of electronic fee collection, EN 15876:2025 is subject to updates and revisions. This ensures that the standard remains relevant and continues to address the needs of the industry. Stakeholders, including manufacturers, operators, and regulatory bodies, are encouraged to participate in the review process to provide input and feedback on potential changes to the standard.

Importance of EN 15876:2025

The implementation of EN 15876:2025 is vital for the successful operation of electronic toll collection systems across Europe. By providing a clear framework for testing and evaluation, the standard helps to ensure that all equipment is reliable, efficient, and capable of working together seamlessly. This not only benefits manufacturers and operators but also enhances the overall user experience for drivers, who can travel through tolling areas without the need for manual payment.

In conclusion, EN 15876:2025 plays a critical role in the electronic fee collection landscape by establishing a standardized approach to the evaluation of on-board and roadside equipment. Its focus on interoperability, compliance, and systematic testing ensures that EFC systems can operate effectively and efficiently, meeting the needs of both operators and users alike. As the industry continues to evolve, adherence to this standard will be essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of electronic toll collection systems across Europe.