The Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER) is a European Union (EU) law that allows car manufacturers to appoint authorized dealerships to sell and service their vehicles within the EU. This regulation provides competition rules that permit car manufacturers to use selective distribution systems while ensuring that independent repairers have access to the technical information and spare parts they need to carry out repairs and maintenance.
The European Commission has recently announced a five-year extension to the MVBER, which was set to expire in 2023. This means that car manufacturers can continue to use selective distribution systems, and car owners can continue to choose where they take their vehicles for repairs and maintenance. The extension also includes some changes to the regulation, such as requirements for more access to technical information for independent repairers.
What does this mean for drivers?
For drivers, the MVBER means that they have the freedom to choose where to take their car for servicing and repairs. They can choose to take their vehicle to an authorised dealership or an independent repairer, which may be more convenient or cost-effective. This can help to lower the cost of repairs and increase competition in the market, which can ultimately benefit drivers.
In addition, the MVBER helps to ensure that drivers have access to high-quality repairs and maintenance services. The regulation requires that both authorized dealerships and independent repairers have access to the technical information and spare parts needed to carry out repairs and maintenance on vehicles. This means that drivers can be confident that their car will be serviced and repaired to a high standard, regardless of where they choose to take it.
Overall, the MVBER provides drivers with more choice and ensures that they have access to high-quality repair and maintenance services, which can help to lower costs and increase competition in the market.