Swedish MEP Johan Danielsson (S&D) has asked the European Commission to explore a common EU framework for approving caravans and light trailers for speeds up to 100 km/h, aiming to reduce administrative burdens for cross-border travellers while maintaining safety standards. The move would affect EU citizens who tow caravans or light trailers across borders, as well as manufacturers and national road authorities.
In a written parliamentary question dated 1 July 2026, Danielsson noted that several EU countries, including Germany and Denmark, as well as Norway, operate so-called Tempo 100 schemes, which allow certain vehicle combinations to travel at 100 km/h based on technical requirements such as brakes, tyres, stabilisation equipment, weight ratios, and periodic inspections. However, the lack of a common EU framework means travellers often need separate national stickers or certificates, even when technical requirements are similar.
Danielsson pointed to a bilateral agreement between Denmark and Norway, in place since March 2024, under which the two countries recognise each other's Tempo 100 approvals. He suggested this demonstrates that mutual recognition can reduce administrative burden while preserving national control over speed limits.
whether it sees scope for a common EU framework or certificate for Tempo 100 approval; whether it would consider EU-wide mutual recognition of such approvals while leaving member states competent to decide where 100 km/h driving is permitted; and whether it would assess whether such a certificate could reduce administrative burden for cross-border travellers while ensuring that higher speed limits are only authorised for vehicle combinations meeting strict safety requirements.
The question signals a push for greater EU harmonisation in a niche area of road transport regulation, balancing traveller convenience with safety. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will indicate whether it sees merit in pursuing EU-level action or prefers to leave the matter to bilateral arrangements. The initiative could benefit touring caravan owners and the caravan industry by simplifying cross-border travel, but may face resistance from member states that wish to retain full control over speed limits on their roads.