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European automotive regulatory processes, which involve the concept of type approval, may be considered more complex and intimidating by those familiar with only the self certification process used by the US and Canada. The lack of understanding of these European processes can impede efforts to harmonize automotive regulations between these two distinct regulatory systems. This paper describes the regulatory approaches adopted in Europe by the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) and the European Economic Community (EEC), and the international governmental and industry organizations involved in these rulemaking activities. This basic understanding of the European approach to developing automotive regulations can be a significant advantage to industry in its efforts to develop an effective strategy to harmonize these regulations on a worldwide basis.

This paper discusses in some detail the mathematical model input data used by the Vehicular Noise Control Department of the General Motors Environmental Activities Staff to project the effects of various medium and heavy truck noise regulation strategies on future community noise levels. The model projects that, for two typical traffic situations, the reduction of new truck sound levels below current requirements does not result in a corresponding decrease in community noise levels. Furthermore, the potential benefits anticipated from the implementation of new truck noise regulations will not be realized without the effective enforcement of operator in-use standards and the control of truck tire noise.