The process of OBD certification : a comparative study between Euro VI and CARB

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the legal requirements for Euro VI and CARB regarding OBD certification in order to identify the challenges that may come for a manufacturer’s move from Euro VI classified heavy-duty engines to engines that meet the requirements of CARB. Furthermore, the study also aims to identify the effects that these challenges will have on the organisation. Research question: What type of challenges arise for a manufacturing company when developing an OBD certification process according to the requirements from CARB compared to Euro VI and how do these challenges affect the organisation? Method: The nature of this study was qualitative with a deductive method as an approach, where theories and empirical findings interacts. The theoretical framework is divided into two parts, in which the first part is obtained from scientific articles and books and the second part from legislations. The empirical data was gathered from interviews at a case study company and the information was thematically analysed. Conclusion: This study concludes that the movement from Euro VI to CARB standards will result in comprehensive changes for a company’s OBD process itself as well as organisational changes within the company. There will be a need to establish new processes and new ways of working within the organisation which can lead to comprehensive coordination difficulties that should be taken into consideration. In conclusion, it is as important to consider the effects of the changes that this movement will bring on the company and the actors within, as it is with the implementation of the process itself.