Uzbekistan Suspends Certification of Leapmotor Vehicles Due to Safety Violations
Uzbekistan has halted the certification of Leapmotor vehicles due to excessive electromagnetic interference detected in the C16 model. The Technical Regulation Inspection emphasized that non-compliant vehicles will not be allowed entry into the country. Leapmotor is investigating the issue and continues selling its vehicles, though certification applications for all its models have been suspended pending resolution.
Uzbekistan has temporarily suspended the certification process for Leapmotor (China) passenger cars following tests indicating that the C16 model exhibited excessive “broadband electromagnetic interference.” As a result, vehicles that do not comply with local regulations are discouraged from entering the country while the company investigates this matter.
The Technical Regulation Inspection has confirmed that the acceptance of applications for certification of Leapmotor vehicles has been halted. Vehicles failing to meet these technical standards will be barred from entry into Uzbekistan, ensuring adherence to compliance and safety requirements.
On March 28, testing center Euro Prof Test reported that the Leapmotor C16 model (VIN LFZ93AN96RD091431) was found to exceed acceptable limits of electromagnetic interference. The following clarification from the inspection indicated that tests at the Scientific and Testing Center for Quality Control of Uzbekistan on March 10 showed severe non-compliance with international safety standards laid out by the UN.
Specifically, the electromagnetic interference levels recorded were 16 times higher than permissible limits, posing potential risks to electronic system operation. Due to these findings, the certification body was requested to suspend the acceptance of applications for all Leapmotor models until corrective actions are undertaken.
In response to inquiries, the inspection authority has urged consumers to prioritize vehicles meeting international safety standards purchased from official dealers. Certification processes for vehicle compliance in Uzbekistan are guided by technical regulations established by a Cabinet resolution in April 2017.
Leapmotor representatives in Uzbekistan stated they are currently addressing the issue, but could not provide detailed comments at this time. Despite the suspension, the company’s vehicles are still available for sale at showrooms within the country. The Customs Committee clarified that there are no restrictions on importing specific car brands but emphasized the need for a certificate of conformity for all vehicles.
Additionally, the Agency for Technical Regulation has changed the vehicle inspection process for imports, moving testing from customs facilities to a dedicated site. This may inadvertently create conflicts of interest, according to some industry stakeholders. The new rules, effective for both individual importers and private entrepreneurs, have resulted in extended wait times for technical inspections and complaints regarding unofficial fees. Discrepancies in import data have also been reported, as some vehicles await processing and certification.
Leapmotor, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Hangzhou, specializes in electric vehicle technology and production, including smart and autonomous driving systems. The C16, a full-size SUV, was introduced in April 2024 at the Beijing International Auto Show, with pricing in Uzbekistan starting at 459.8 million soums ($35,889).
In summary, Uzbekistan’s suspension of Leapmotor vehicle certification underscores the importance of adhering to safety standards, particularly regarding electromagnetic interference. The company faces scrutiny as it investigates the non-compliance issue identified in the C16 model, which has led to a broader suspension of all models. This situation exemplifies the regulatory challenges within the automotive industry while emphasizing consumer safety and international compliance standards. Leapmotor continues its operations amidst these developments, underscoring the dynamics of automotive regulations in the region.
Original Source: www.gazeta.uz
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