RL Automotive launches AutoBrake, an EBPMS solution for heavy duty trailers that meets the DVSA regulations post 2025.

RL’s EBPMS solution is DVSA compliant, low cost and easy-to-fit. This solution from RL is both stand alone and a module with the AutoTrust and TyreWatch platforms.

Trailer brakes are tested using a Roller Brake Test (RBT) during the annual MOT inspection.

DVSA’s Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, Section 5.3, highlights the importance of brake performance testing during safety inspections. Since April 1, 2023, the regulations mandate that a trailer must undergo brake testing at least four times a year, with one test required on a fully laden trailer during the MOT, and the other tests being strongly advised to be fully laden.

From April 2025, all four required brake performance tests must either be undertaken on a fully laden trailer on a RBT, or 3 tests of the 4 tests can use an EBPMS report whilst the 4th test, being the MOT, must use a RBT. Any additional safety inspections, if more than four per annum, will be required to include brake testing fully laden on a RBT, or an EBPMS report provided.

EBPMS is a solution that is supported by the DVSA. EBPMS monitors in-service braking performance and provides detailed reports. These reports can be used during a safety inspection in place of an RBT. RL’s EBPMS reports comply with the current DVSA requirements (as set out in the DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness) and can reduce RBT tests from four to one per year.

RL Automotive offers a DVSA compliant EBPMS solution that continuously monitors the brakes using data collected from the Electronic Braking System (EBS), combined with our telematics system to generate real-time data reports. RL’s EBPMS reports are generated on a daily basis. Reports are easily accessible via mobile phone or our portal, allowing operators to identify potential braking issues well before scheduled maintenance.

RL Automotive also provides, with its EBPMS solution, trailer tracking, speed, distance, hours operated, axle load and real time EBS brake warning indicators.

DVSA update 18th April 2023:

From April 2025, laden roller brake tests or electronic brake performance monitoring systems (EBPMS) will, with some exceptions be the only accepted methods for brake testing. To prepare for this change, we strongly advise that a laden roller brake test is carried out at every safety inspection. The guide now includes more detail of how to use EBPMS and has more advice on brake testing. A brake performance assessment can be carried out no more than 7 days before the safety inspection date.