Further to our update on BIVA Consultation where we spotted that the EU were looking into restriction on chip tuning: -

”We will keep the situation under review during the implementation period and maintain contacts with stakeholders to identify any new or emerging evidence. The European Commission also plan to regulate certain items fitted in the aftermarket (such as engine management “chips”) and we will await their proposals.“

It appears that Germany has already jumped the gun and imposed a blanket ban on their fitment whilst they review the situation.

Link to the SEMA Article LinkNOW Dead

From SEMA eNews, Vol. 11, No. 36 - Sep 04, 2025

“GERMANY ENACTS BAN ON CHIP-TUNING MODIFICATIONS

The German government has notified the automotive technical approval services in Germany that, effective immediately, they are prohibited from approving engine-management software (‘chip tuning’) modifications. The government has cited lack of knowledge on the effects these modifications have on exhaust emissions, as well as other vehicle systems, such as braking and steering.

Unofficially, the technical services are suggesting as a temporary measure to use the current tests utilized by the technical services to test aftermarket engine-management hardware modifications and engine tuning in general (headers, valves, engine swaps).

This recommendation would involve the generation of a test report (short of a product approval) and then consumers would be required to take this test result and apply for a ‘one-off approval’ for that particular vehicle.”