Czech Republic
EU New Battery Regulation
What is the EU New Battery Regulation?
The EU New Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 came into force on 17 August 2023. The regulation pursues three main objectives:
• Strengthening the functioning of EU internal market (covering products, processes, waste battery management and recycling); • Promoting a circular economy; and • Reducing environmental and social impacts throughout all stages of battery life cycle.
The regulation sets binding requirements applicable to all batteries placed on the EU market (except for military, space, and nuclear purposes). Those requirements cover sustainability and safety, labelling, marking and information, due diligence, waste battery management, battery passport, etc. The regulation specifies obligations of the manufacturer, importer and distributor of batteries and products containing batteries, also establishes conformity assessment procedure and market surveillance requirements. Manufacturers of cells, modules, battery packs, energy storage system, electric vehicle (“EV”) battery systems and end products shall pay high attention to the regulation.
In terms of functionality, the regulation applies to both rechargeable and disposable batteries. In terms of design, it covers individual cells, battery modules and complete battery systems. Specific safety requirements are defined for stationary battery systems intended for energy storage.
Furthermore, the new regulations introduce specific requirements on battery design and performance, such as performance and durability requirements for general-purpose portable batteries; performance and durability requirements for rechargeable industrial batteries, LMT batteries, and EV batteries.
Who do the EU New Battery Regulation apply to?
EU Regulation 2023/1542 applies to both legal entities and natural persons, though with varying scope and conditions based on their role in the battery lifecycle, namely: • Manufacturers; • Importers; and • Distributors of batteries and products containing batteries.
For legal entities and self-employed individuals, the regulation imposes comprehensive obligations if they engage in battery manufacturing, importing, distribution, or waste processing. These economic operators must comply with all requirements corresponding to their position in the supply chain, including due diligence, documentation, labelling, carbon footprint declarations, and end-of-life management responsibilities.
For consumers, the regulation applies indirectly. Consumers are not subject to most regulatory obligations but do have the right to receive specific information about batteries they purchase. They also have the obligation to properly dispose of waste batteries at designated collection points. The regulation's impact on average consumers manifests mainly through improved battery information transparency, better collection infrastructure, and the requirement to properly dispose of batteries. Unlike economic operators, consumers are exempt from requirements related to supply chain due diligence, technical documentation, and most compliance procedures that apply to businesses involved in the battery market.
What are the requirements?
The EU New Battery Regulation introduces comprehensive requirements covering the entire battery lifecycle. The key requirements are:
- Registration and authorisation processes: Producers must register in national registers before placing batteries on the market and provide complete documentation about their products. Collection and recycling facilities need to notify authorities before starting operations and obtain necessary permits with simplified procedures established by the regulation.
- Financial guarantees and insurance: Producers are required to provide financial guarantees when registering to cover the costs of collection, treatment, and recycling of waste batteries they place on the market. Battery processors must maintain appropriate insurance coverage for potential environmental and health liabilities arising from their operations.
- Due diligence: Economic operators must implement supply chain due diligence policies for raw materials used in batteries, including risk assessment and third-party verification no less than once every 12 months.
- Sustainability and carbon footprint: Manufacturers must calculate, declare and limit the carbon footprint of industrial and EV batteries throughout their life cycle. The regulation also mandates increasing percentages of recycled materials in new batteries, with specific targets for cobalt, lead, lithium, and nickel starting from 2031.
- Performance and durability: Batteries shall meet minimum performance and durability requirements and ensure that EV batteries retain at least 80% of their original capacity after a certain number of cycles/years and that the declared capacity is not less than 90% of the rated capacity.
- Labelling and information: All batteries must carry standardised labels with QR codes linking to detailed information and battery passports containing comprehensive composition and performance data, with 100% of EV batteries required to have an electronic battery passport from 1 January 2026.
- Waste battery management: The regulation sets progressive collection targets for waste batteries and mandates specific recycling efficiency rates with material recovery targets. Extended producer responsibility ensures that producers are financially responsible for the collection, treatment and recycling of the batteries they place on the market.
- Circular economy provisions: The regulation facilitates the use of batteries at the end of their second life by requiring a 100% reuse assessment of EV batteries, with an indicative target of at least 15% of reusable batteries being ready for reuse instead of recycling. Requirements for reuse, refurbishment and reduction of hazardous substances should promote longer battery life and safer recycling processes.
Who enforces the EU New Battery Regulation?
The enforcement of the EU New Batteries Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) in the Czech Republic is guided by the EU-wide framework and is integrated into national structures. The Czech Trade Inspection Authority (ČOI) serves as the primary market surveillance authority and cooperates with other specialised authorities such as the Czech Environmental Inspectorate (ČIŽP). These authorities are responsible for conducting inspections, product testing, and enforcement within the Czech Republic.
CO2 emission standards for new vehicles Regulation (EU) 2019/631
What is the CO2 emission standards for new vehicles Regulation (EU) 2019/631?
The EU Regulation 2019/631 came into force in January 2020. The main purpose of the regulation is to:
- Set CO2 performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles;
- Ensure decarbonisation of the transport sector; and
- Achieve the EU targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Stricter CO₂ rules will cut average emissions from new cars by 55% by 2030 and 100% by 2035. From 2035, only zero-emission vehicles can be registered.
In terms of EV batteries, this regulation indirectly promotes the development and use of EVs and their batteries through emission targets. This regulation, together with EU Regulation 2023/1542 on batteries, creates a comprehensive regulatory framework to support the transition to low-carbon mobility in Europe.
Who do the regulations apply to?
The primary subjects directly affected by the regulation are the Automotive Manufacturers. These include:
- All manufacturers registering new M1 passenger cars in the EU.
- All manufacturers registering new N1 light commercial vehicles in the EU; and
- Groups of companies that can be considered as one manufacturer for the purposes of meeting the targets.
The regulation distinguishes between different types of manufacturers based on their registration volumes. Large manufacturers (over 300,000 registrations annually) must meet standard targets without relief. Niche manufacturers (10,000-300,000 registrations annually) may apply for specific targets tailored to their situation. Small manufacturers (fewer than 10,000 registrations annually) may apply for exemption from meeting the targets.
Importers of vehicles into the EU may also be responsible for the emissions of imported vehicles, so they are also covered by the regulation. Those indirectly affected are automotive suppliers, in particular vehicle developers and powertrain manufacturers, who must adapt to changing requirements. Battery manufacturers for EVs are indirectly stimulated by the growing demand for low emission vehicles.
What are the requirements?
EU Regulation 2019/631 on CO2 emission standards for new vehicles does not contain direct specific requirements related to EV batteries, as it primarily focuses on regulating CO2 emissions of vehicles. However, there are indirect links and implications that affect the EV battery sector, such as:
- Support for electromobility to achieve emission targets: Strict CO2 emission limits effectively force car manufacturers to increase the share of EVs in their fleet, which increases demand for more powerful batteries and stimulates their development.
- ZLEV incentive mechanism: The preferential treatment of zero and low-emission vehicles indirectly supports the development of vehicles with more advanced battery systems that enable longer range and better user characteristics.
- Emission calculation for hybrid vehicles: For plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), battery capacity and efficiency have a direct impact on officially measured CO2 emission values, motivating manufacturers to use higher quality batteries.
- Vehicle lifecycle: Although the current version of the regulation only considers tailpipe emissions, revisions planned under the "Fit for 55" initiative are moving toward including emissions from the entire vehicle lifecycle, which could bring requirements for environmental parameters of batteries in the future.
Compared to EU Regulation 2023/1542 on batteries and waste batteries, which contains specific detailed requirements directly for batteries (their composition, performance, recycling, etc.), Regulation 2019/631 does not contain direct technical requirements for EV batteries. Its influence is rather indirect by creating market conditions and incentives that stimulate the production and use of EVs, and thus battery development.
Who enforces the regulations?
The enforcement of EU Regulation 2019/631 on CO2 emission standards in the Czech Republic involves a multi-level governance structure with clearly defined responsibilities. The Ministry of Transport serves as the primary national authority responsible for implementing this regulation in the Czech Republic, working in close coordination with the Ministry of Industry and Trade. These ministries ensure that the European requirements are properly incorporated into the national regulatory framework.
Regarding sanctions, while the European Commission directly imposes the €95 per g/km excess emissions premium on manufacturers at the EU level, the Czech authorities can enforce additional national measures. These include the possibility of withdrawing type approvals for non-compliant vehicles, imposing administrative fines for incorrect reporting, and restricting market access for vehicles that do not meet requirements.
The Czech Republic's National Action Plan for Clean Mobility also includes complementary measures that indirectly support enforcement by incentivising the purchase of low-emission vehicles through tax benefits and subsidies, making compliance with the regulation economically advantageous for manufacturers selling vehicles in the Czech market.
Act No. 542/2020 Coll., on end-of-life products
What is Act No. 542/2020 Coll., on end-of-life products?
Act No. 542/2020 Coll., on end-of-life products came into force in January 2021. The main purpose of this Act is to:
- Regulate the take-back of selected products (electrical equipment, batteries or accumulators and tires) and the handling of end-of-life vehicles,
- Establish the rights and obligations of persons who place products on the market when they are placed on the market, as well as the obligation to take back, use and recycle waste, and
- Set out the obligations of persons involved in take-back and waste processors.
The law is particularly important given the rapid development of electro-mobility and the expected future need to address end-of-life disposal of first-generation charging stations.
Who do the regulations apply to?
Act No. 542/2020 Coll., on end-of-life products, applies to entities which are involved in the life cycle of selected products in the Czech Republic, in particular:
- Manufacturers who place electrical equipment, batteries and accumulators, tyres or vehicles on the Czech market;
- Importers of these products into the Czech Republic;
- Distributors and retailers who supply these products to end users;
- Last sellers who have taken-back obligations;
- Operators of take-back points and collective schemes;
- Processors of waste from selected products;
- Operators of facilities for the collection or treatment of end-of-life vehicles;
- Municipalities participating in the take-back system;
- Service technicians for electrical equipment and batteries or accumulators;
- Operators of charging stations for EVs who must ensure the management of batteries; and
- Operators of solar power plants in terms of panel management.
The law specifically regulates the obligations for the management of batteries for EVs, which is relevant for the infrastructure of charging stations. Operators of this infrastructure must ensure that used batteries are properly collected and treated in accordance with this law, which implements the European Battery and Accumulator Directives.
What are the requirements?
Act No. 542/2020 sets out the following key requirements for the charging infrastructure for EVs and related batteries:
For manufacturers and importers of batteries for EVs:
- Registration obligation in the List of Manufacturers maintained by the Ministry of the Environment;
- Obligation to ensure a minimum take-back efficiency (target of 65% for portable batteries in 2023);
- Labelling of batteries and accumulators with standardised symbols including capacity information;
- Obligation to fund a public information campaign on take-back;
- Joining a collective scheme or setting up an individual compliance scheme; and
- Regular annual reporting on the quantity of batteries placed on the market and how the obligations are met.
For charging station operators:
- Providing a collection point for used batteries if they service or replace batteries;
- Obligation to hand over collected batteries only to authorised persons;
- Prohibiting the dismantling of batteries and disturbing their integrity;
- Keeping an ongoing record of batteries and how they are disposed of; and
- Separate storage of batteries from other waste regarding their hazardous properties.
For processors of batteries from EVs:
- Obligation to process and recycle batteries only in facilities with the appropriate permit;
- Achieving a minimum recycling efficiency (e.g. 50% for lead-acid, 75% for nickel-cadmium batteries);
- Separate treatment of lithium-ion batteries regarding specific safety risks; and
- Compliance with specific procedures for the dismantling and treatment of EV batteries.
Specific requirements for lithium-ion batteries used in EVs:
- Analysis of the possibility of refurbishment and second life of batteries before recycling;
- Safe storage regarding fire risk (separate rooms, fire protection measures);
- Monitoring and cooling systems for storage of damaged batteries; and
- Competence of personnel to handle high voltage systems.
Operators of facilities with charging infrastructure shall:
- Establish facility operating procedures that include procedures in the event of a release of hazardous substances;
- Ensure the professional handling of batteries at the end of their useful life;
- Maintain documentation on the transfer of batteries to authorised persons; and
- Provide information to end-users on how to manage used batteries.
All operators must comply with the waste hierarchy, giving priority to waste prevention, reuse, recycling and other recovery over disposal.
Who enforces the regulations?
In the Czech Republic, the primary authority responsible for enforcing Act No. 542/2020 Coll., on End-of-Life Products, is the Czech Environmental Inspectorate (CEI). The Inspectorate may impose a fine of up to CZK 10,000,000 for violations of this Act, depending on the severity of the offence.
Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels
What is Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels?
Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels came into force in September 2006. The main purpose of this Act is to:
- Establish the regulatory framework for the distribution, sale, and quality control of fuels in the Czech Republic;
- Set requirements for the operation of fuel dispensing stations, including EV charging stations, and establishes mandatory quality standards for fuels; and
- Define the obligations for fuel suppliers and operators of fuel dispensing points to ensure consumer protection and environmental standards are met.
Originally focused on traditional petroleum-based fuels, the legislation has been amended over time to incorporate alternative fuels, including electricity for EVs.
For EV charging infrastructure specifically, the law defines electric charging stations as "fuel dispensing points" and establishes the legal framework for their operation. It provides definitions of charging points, regulates the information that must be provided to consumers, and sets certain technical requirements.
The legislation also implements European Union directives on alternative fuels infrastructure, particularly Directive 2014/94/EU, into Czech national law. This includes provisions for interoperability of charging stations, standardisation of connectors, and requirements for providing clear information to EV users about availability, pricing, and payment methods.
Furthermore, the act establishes a system of monitoring and control mechanisms to ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements, defines administrative offenses related to non-compliance, and stipulates penalties for violations.
Who do the regulations apply to?
The regulations contained in Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels, apply to entities which are involved in the fuel supply chain, including those dealing with EV charging infrastructure:
- Operators of Charging Stations (Entities that own or operate public EV charging stations are directly regulated. This includes energy companies, charging network operators, retail businesses offering charging services, and parking facility operators with charging points).
- Fuel Distributors and Sellers (Companies that distribute or sell fuels, including electricity specifically marketed for EVs, must comply with the requirements outlined in the legislation).
- Importers of Fuel (Organisations importing fuels, including specialised electrical equipment for EV charging).
- Manufacturers of Charging Equipment (Companies producing charging stations for the Czech market must ensure their equipment meets the technical specifications outlined in the law and related regulations).
- Property Developers (In some cases, developers of new commercial properties or parking facilities that include charging infrastructure).
- Service Providers (Third-party companies providing services related to EV charging, such as payment processing, user interfaces, or maintenance services).
- Infrastructure Operators (Operators of transportation infrastructure (highways, public parking) that include charging stations).
- Local Authorities (Municipal authorities that operate public charging facilities or grant permits for their installation).
The legislation applies primarily to publicly accessible charging stations, though certain provisions may extend to semi-public or private charging facilities depending on their nature and use case. The regulations create a differentiated framework where obligations vary based on the type of entity and the scale of their operations.
What are the requirements?
Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels, establishes several key requirements for EV charging infrastructure operators and related entities: Registration and Reporting Requirements:
- Operators must register their charging stations with the Ministry of Industry and Trade before commencing operations
- Regular reporting of operational data, including volumes of electricity dispensed, number of charging sessions, and any quality-related issues
- Obligation to maintain records of charging station operations for at least five years
- Duty to report any significant technical issues or safety incidents to regulatory authorities
Technical Specifications:
- Charging stations must comply with technical standards specified in related implementing regulations
- Mandatory use of standardised connectors as defined by EU Directive 2014/94/EU (Type 2 for AC charging and CCS Combo 2 for DC fast charging)
- Installations must comply with electrical safety standards and undergo regular safety inspections
- Smart metering capabilities to accurately measure electricity dispensed
- Technical capability to connect with central monitoring systems for data collection
Consumer Information and Transparency:
- Clear display of pricing information before charging commences
- Transparent information about charging speed and power output
- Instructions for use must be visible and provided in Czech and English at minimum
- Contact information for technical support must be displayed on each charging point
- Operators must provide real-time information about station availability and operational status
- Ad hoc charging must be available without requiring long-term contracts
Payment Systems:
- Charging stations must offer at least one common payment method (credit/debit card or contactless payment)
- Payment systems must issue receipts or electronic evidence of transactions
- Price components must be clearly broken down (electricity cost, service fee, etc.)
Quality Control:
- Regular testing and verification of charging equipment accuracy
- Compliance with electricity quality standards
- Maintenance protocols to ensure consistent service quality
Accessibility Requirements:
- Compliance with physical accessibility standards for persons with disabilities
- Logical placement with adequate lighting and weather protection
- Clear signage directing users to charging locations
Environmental and Grid Integration:
- Some provisions for load management to prevent grid instability
- Requirements related to environmental protection during installation and operation
- Proper handling of electrical components and compliance with waste management regulations
Emergency Procedures:
- Emergency shutdown capabilities
- Safety protocols for electrical hazards
- Procedures for reporting and addressing malfunctions
The legislation also references secondary regulations and technical standards that provide more detailed specifications for compliance, particularly regarding electrical safety, metering accuracy, and interoperability requirements.
Who enforces the regulations?
Enforcement of Act No. 311/2006 Coll., on Fuels, regarding EV charging infrastructure is primarily conducted by the Czech Trade Inspection Authority (ČOI), which has the legal authority to impose fines up to CZK 1,000,000 on operators of charging stations, fuel distributors, or sellers (including electricity for EVs) for violations. The Ministry of Industry and Trade can revoke registrations from the official registry of charging station operators for serious non-compliance. The Energy Regulatory Office has enforcement powers to suspend or revoke licenses for electricity trading activities related to charging services and impose separate penalties for violations of electricity quality standards. The Czech Metrology Institute can mandate remedial actions for inaccurate metering equipment, while the Customs Administration may impose additional penalties related to fuel taxes and duties. Sanctionable offenses include operating unregistered charging stations, failing to meet technical standards, missing consumer information, or not providing required data to authorities. For repeated or severe violations, these authorities can order temporary closure of non-compliant facilities or mandate implementation of specific remedial measures, with all enforcement actions coordinated through an integrated information system.
Act No. 87/2025 Coll., Amendment to Energy Act
What is Act No. 87.2025 Coll., Amendment to Energy Act?
The part of Energy Act No. 87/2025 Coll. concerning charging stations for electric vehicles came into force on 1 August 2025. The main purpose of this Act is to:
- Regulates electricity distribution for charging stations.
- Sets conditions for connection to the distribution system.
- Establish the rights and obligations of charging station operators; and
- Regulate licensing requirements for electricity trading.
The law supports the development of EV charging infrastructure by clearly defining charging stations and setting transparent rules for their operation. It ensures public access, price transparency, and technical safety, making it a key legal foundation for the expansion of sustainable mobility. This legislation is crucial for aligning national infrastructure with EU climate goals and enabling broader adoption of electric vehicles.
Who do the regulations apply to?
This act applies to entities which are involved in the life cycle of selected products in the Czech Republic, in particular:
- Operators of public EV charging stations who must ensure transparent pricing, one-time charging access, and compliance with technical and interoperability standards.
- Municipalities and cities who are required to install charging infrastructure on public properties and parking areas in line with building and energy regulations.
- Real estate developers and construction companies who are obligated to include charging points and cabling infrastructure in new or renovated buildings with parking spaces.
- Owners of non-residential buildings who were required to install at least one charging station by 1 January 2025, if the building has more than 20 parking spaces.
- Energy companies and aggregators who are allowed to integrate EV charging stations into energy flexibility services and consumption aggregation.
- Government and regulatory authorities (e.g. ERÚ, Ministry of Industry and Trade) who are responsible for oversight, registration of stations, and enforcement of technical and operational standards.
The 2025 amendment to the Czech Energy Act introduces clear obligations for public and private stakeholders involved in EV charging infrastructure. It affects municipalities, developers, building owners, and energy companies by requiring transparent access, technical compliance, and integration into the energy system. This legal framework is essential for accelerating the deployment of charging stations and supporting the transition to sustainable mobility.
What are the requirements?
Act No. 87/2025 sets out the following key requirements for the charging infrastructure for EVs and related batteries:
For Public Charging Station Operators:
- Provide access for one-time charging without requiring registration
- Publish transparent pricing and technical specifications
- Ensure interoperability and data accessibility for users and grid operators
For Municipalities and Cities:
- Support the deployment of charging infrastructure on public land and facilities
- Apply for subsidies to install EV chargers and purchase electric vehicles
- Align local regulations with national energy and mobility strategies
For Real Estate Developers and Building Owners:
- Include EV charging infrastructure in new and renovated buildings with parking spaces
- Comply with technical standards and grid connection rules
For Energy Companies and Aggregators:
- Integrate EV chargers into energy flexibility and aggregation services
- Hold a general electricity trading license to participate in aggregation
- Possibility of use EV charging stations as part of demand-side management strategies
For Government and Regulatory Authorities (e.g. ERÚ, Ministry of Industry and Trade):
- Monitor compliance and maintain a registry of public charging stations
- Ensure consumer protection and enforce technical and operational standards
Who enforces the regulations?
In the Czech Republic, The Energy Regulatory Office (ERÚ) enforces compliance with the Czech Energy Act, including rules for EV charging. Violations can lead to fines, with recent penalties reaching up to CZK 6 million. Operators must ensure transparent data access and non-discriminatory network use or risk losing their license.
ADR regulations
What are the ADR regulations?
The European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) is a key regulation for the transport of dangerous materials, which is implemented in the Czech Republic by Decree No. 64/1987 Coll. and Act No. 111/1994 Coll., on Road Transport.
The main purpose of this Act is to:
- Set out a comprehensive set of rules for the safe transport of dangerous goods, including their classification, packaging, labelling, documentation and vehicle requirements; and
- Minimise the risks associated with the transport of hazardous materials on the road.
For EV charging infrastructure, ADR is particularly relevant for the transport of lithium-ion batteries and accumulators, which are classified as dangerous goods of Class 9 (other dangerous substances and articles).
The Agreement is regularly updated every two years to reflect technological developments and new safety knowledge.
For the carriage of batteries used in EVs and charging stations, the ADR sets out specific packaging, labelling and documentation requirements that vary according to the size, condition and type of battery. Special provisions apply to damaged or defective batteries and to the transport of batteries for recycling or disposal. The ADR also defines exemptions for the transport of smaller quantities of batteries.
Who do the regulations apply to?
The ADR regulations apply to the following entities in the context of charging infrastructure for EVs in the Czech Republic:
- Transporters of lithium-ion batteries and accumulators (companies providing physical transport of dangerous goods by road)
- Battery shippers (entities that prepare battery shipments for transport, including manufacturers, distributors or charging station operators shipping used or damaged batteries)
- Consignee of shipments (waste processors, recycling facilities or service centres receiving batteries)
- Transporter (companies operating vehicles transporting dangerous goods)
- Packers (responsible for the correct packaging of lithium-ion batteries according to the regulations)
- Fillers (if filling containers with hazardous substances)
- Tank vehicle operators (relevant for certain chemicals used in battery manufacture)
- ADR safety advisors (experts that companies involved in the transport of dangerous goods must have)
- Drivers of vehicles carrying dangerous goods (who must have special training certificates)
- Manufacturers of packaging for the transport of dangerous goods (who must ensure that the packaging is certified)
- EV service and repair shops (transport of high voltage batteries)
- Charging infrastructure manufacturers and distributors (for deliveries containing battery systems)
- Rescue services and emergency services (intervening in the event of an accident)
ADR regulations apply to all participants in the transport chain and impose specific obligations on each according to their role in the transport of dangerous goods.
What are the requirements?
The ADR regulations set out the following key requirements for the transport of lithium-ion batteries used in EVs and charging infrastructures:
Classification and identification:
- Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods of Class 9 (UN 3480 for lithium-ion batteries, UN 3481 for batteries contained in equipment)
- Damaged or defective batteries have a special classification (UN 3480 with special provisions)
- Batteries intended for disposal or recycling may be transported under special provisions
Packaging:
- Use of approved packaging materials corresponding to packaging group II
- Batteries must be packed in such a way that they are protected against short circuits (contact insulation)
- Large batteries must be secured against movement inside the packaging
- Stricter requirements apply for damaged batteries, including fireproof and airtight packaging
- Each package must pass a drop test from a height of 1.2 m
- Large batteries may require special shipping containers with ventilation holes
Labelling and documentation:
- Each shipment must be marked with a Class 9 label and the appropriate UN mark
- Transport requires a properly completed transport document with a description of the dangerous goods
- Special provision 188 for batteries meeting exemptions must be indicated on the transport document
- Written instructions to the driver according to ADR
- For damaged batteries, a special marking "DAMAGED/DAMAGED LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES" is required
Requirements for vehicles and drivers:
- Vehicles carrying large quantities of batteries must be marked with orange plates
- Drivers transporting batteries above the limit quantity must have an ADR certificate
- Vehicles must be equipped with the prescribed fire-fighting equipment
- Personal protective equipment must be available in the vehicle in case of accidents
- No smoking during cargo handling
Operating procedures:
- Securing the cargo against movement during transport
- Prohibition of carriage together with incompatible materials
- Supervision of vehicles when transporting large quantities of dangerous goods
- Compliance with transport restrictions in tunnels (category E)
- Obligation to train all persons involved in transport
Exemptions and concessions:
- Low-energy batteries may be transported under less stringent conditions
- Exemption for limited quantities (LQ) according to Chapter 3.4 of the ADR
- Exemptions for batteries contained in personal use equipment
- Possibility of using exempted quantities (EQ) for very small batteries
Emergency procedures:
- Obligation to have established procedures in case of an accident
- Specific extinguishing procedures for lithium batteries (use of large quantities of water)
- Contact details for professional assistance in the event of an accident
These requirements are continuously updated with each new edition of the ADR regulations and reflect developments in technology and safety standards.
Who enforces the regulations?
In the Czech Republic, compliance with ADR regulations is mainly monitored by the Police of the Czech Republic. Failure to comply with ADR regulations when transporting lithium-ion batteries can lead to on-the-spot fines up to CZK 5,000, administrative penalties up to CZK 1,000,000 for more serious infractions, and potential criminal prosecution in cases resulting in harm to life or health. Authorities can also withhold drivers' ADR certificates, impose temporary driving bans, or revoke dangerous goods transport licenses for repeat offenders. To ensure compliance, regulatory bodies conduct regular targeted preventive inspections specifically focused on dangerous goods transportation, with particular attention to lithium batteries due to their unique hazards.
Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on the Conditions of Operation of Vehicles on Roads
What is the Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on the Conditions of Operations of Vehicles on Roads?
Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on the Conditions of Operation of Vehicles on Roads came into force in July 2001. In relation to charging infrastructure, the Act is particularly relevant in the following aspects: • Regulation of technical requirements for EVs compatible with charging infrastructure • Introduction of a labelling system for alternative fuel vehicles (e.g. "EL" emission plaques for pure EVs) • Enabling the registration of the vehicle drive type in the vehicle register for the management of the charging infrastructure • Defining the conditions for the conversion of EVs, including the approval process.
The law has been amended several times to respond to the development of electric mobility. The latest amendments reflect European directives aimed at reducing emissions and promoting alternative propulsion.
Who do the regulations apply to?
Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on conditions for operating vehicles on roads, applies to the following entities in the Czech Republic in relation to electromobility and charging infrastructure:
• Owners and operators of EVs (who must comply with specific requirements for registration and technical condition of their EVs), • Manufacturers and importers of EVs (responsible for vehicle type approval, including charging systems), • Manufacturers and distributors of vehicle components (including manufacturers of batteries and in-vehicle charging systems), • Auto services and repair shops (which perform repairs and maintenance of EVs), • Technical Inspection Stations (performing regular inspections of the technical condition of EVs), • Companies performing vehicle conversions (specialising in converting conventional vehicles to electric propulsion), • Importers of used EVs (who must ensure their individual approval for operation in the Czech Republic), • Insurance companies (providing liability insurance for damage caused by vehicle operation), • Vehicle dealers (who must ensure that EVs sold comply with legal requirements), • Fleet operators (including companies and institutions operating EVs), • Municipalities with extended powers (maintaining the vehicle register including records of propulsion type), and • Testing laboratories and technical services (conducting testing and homologation of EVs).
The law does not directly affect charging station operators, but indirectly influences the entire electromobility ecosystem, of which charging infrastructure is an integral part, especially through the regulation of vehicles that use this infrastructure.
What are the requirements?
Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on conditions for operating vehicles on roads, establishes the following key requirements in relation to EVs and related aspects of charging infrastructure:
Registration of EVs:
• Obligation to register all EVs in the road vehicle register • Need to indicate the type of propulsion as "electric" in the register (code ED for pure EVs) • European vehicle type approval or declaration of conformity (COC) must be documented during registration • For imported vehicles from third countries, individual technical approval is required • Registration includes a record of battery capacity and maximum vehicle range
Technical requirements for EVs:
• Compliance with electromagnetic compatibility limits according to UN ECE Regulation No. 10 • Safety requirements for high-voltage components according to UN ECE Regulation No. 100 • Special requirements for the construction of battery systems and their protection in the event of impact • Need for an acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS) for quiet vehicles • Marking of vehicle charging ports with standardised pictograms according to connector type
Technical inspections:
• Mandatory regular technical inspections of EVs (first after 4 years, then every 2 years) • Specific procedure for checking high-voltage systems at STK • Checking the functionality of regenerative braking systems • Verification of battery system integrity and absence of damage • Checking for absence of operating fluid leakage from the battery cooling system
Vehicle conversions:
• Need for approval of vehicle conversion to electric propulsion by the regional authority • Obligation to provide technical documentation of the conversion • Evidence of homologation of electrical components used • Protocol from technical testing laboratory on the safety of the conversion • Recording the propulsion change in the vehicle's technical certificate
Handling damaged EVs:
• Special procedures for handling crashed EVs • Requirement for professional dismantling of high-voltage systems before vehicle disposal • Procedure for deactivation of battery systems during long-term vehicle storage • Specific requirements for towing services for EVs
Vehicle marking:
• Possibility to obtain a special EV registration plate (EL) for vehicles with pure electric propulsion • This type of plate allows the use of benefits such as reserved parking spaces or other benefits established by local authorities • Visual marking of high-voltage components in the vehicle
The above requirements primarily concern vehicles but have a direct impact on compatibility with charging infrastructure, safety during charging, and the overall regulatory framework for electromobility in the Czech Republic.
Who enforces the regulations?
In the Czech Republic, enforcement of Act No. 56/2001 Coll., on conditions for operating vehicles on roads, is carried out by several key authorities: municipal authorities with extended powers (which maintain the vehicle register and determine technical eligibility), Technical Inspection Stations (STK) that conduct regular inspections, the Ministry of Transport as the central authority, Czech Police performing roadside checks, and regional authorities approving vehicle conversions. Violations of this Act can result in fines up to CZK 50,000 for individuals and up to CZK 10,000,000 for legal entities. Additional penalties include operating bans for non-compliant vehicles, revocation of authorisations to perform technical inspections or conversions, and in serious cases where safety is endangered, criminal prosecution may be pursued.
