Glossary
CoP (Conformity of Production)
The regulator's ongoing audit that verifies every car coming off the line still matches the approved type, not just the test sample.
Standard: EU Regulation 2018/858
Definition
Conformity of Production is the regulator's mechanism for checking that vehicles built after type approval still match the type that was approved. Without CoP, a manufacturer could submit a hand-built, optimised sample for type approval and then sell production cars built to cheaper, dirtier, or less safe standards. CoP audits are mandatory under EU Regulation 2018/858 and were materially strengthened after the 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal exposed that pre-existing CoP processes had been too narrow to catch software defeat devices. The 2020 EU framework added in-service surveillance — random checks on cars already in customer hands — and the right for any member state to inspect any other state's type approvals.
Why it matters when buying a used car
CoP is the reason emissions and safety classifications on a used car can change after first registration. A diesel that was Euro 6 at sale can be reclassified after a CoP-triggered software update — relevant for low-emission-zone access in many cities.
Often confused with
Type approval
The certification process that authorises a new vehicle type for sale in a given market. EU type approval (WVTA) is recognised across all EU member states.
CoC
A paper document issued for every new EU-type-approved vehicle, certifying that the unit was built to the approved type. Required for re-registration in another EU country.
OBFCM
EU-mandated on-board device that records real-world fuel consumption on every new car. Data is collected by the European Environment Agency.