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Vehicles increasingly evolve after initial approval. Software-defined functions, connected systems and over-the-air updates introduce new dynamics into compliance and assessment. In today’s digital and internationally connected mobility landscape, homologation is no longer static. It evolves through legislation, technical expertise and practical implementation. On 8 and 9 September 2026, RDW brings these perspectives together during the biennial Summer Conference.
Traditional homologation was built arount clearly defined approval moments and stable vehicle configurations. Today, vehicles may change throughout their lifecycle. Continuous monitoring, digital verification and data-driven assessment are becoming integral to type approval and testing. Regulatory interpretation and technical implementation must therefore remain closely aligned.
Homologation is shifting:
From static approval to continuous lifecycle compliance
From physical inspection to digital verification
From hardware assessment to software and data evaluation
From nationally applied frameworks to stronger international harmonisation
From separated roles to shared accountability.
As Type Approval Authority with over 75 designated Technical Service providers (including our own), RDW oversees the full homologation landscape: from regulatory framework to practical application. Manufacturers drive innovation. Technical Services ensure independent and robust assessment. The future of homologation depends on how effectively these perspectives align, ensuring safety, sustainability and compliance in an efficient and reliable way.
Two conference days. Tailored focus.
The RDW Summer Conference is not about observing change. It is about influencing how that change takes shape. Each day is designed for its designated stakeholder group, enabling focused and in-depth exchange. Discussions explore how innovation and compliance can progress together within an evolving regulatory framework.
At this moment we are finalising the programme. Below you will find the provisional outline. As soon as all speakers have confirmed, we will publish the detailed programme.
Programme
This is an invitation-only event. If you did not receive an invitation but are interested in joining, please email us at [email protected].
8 September exclusively for technical services 9 September exclusively for vehicle and component manufacturers
09:00am: Doors open
09:30am: Key note presentations from our management board, industry leaders working at the European Commission, Joint Research Centre and global consultancy firm Roland Berger
12:00pm: Lunch and networking time with industry peers
01:00pm: Inspiring breakout sessions, led by our senior policy experts
04:30pm: Exclusive museum experience: explore the world's oldest private car collection
05:30pm: Walking dinner and networking opportunities
Venue and location
The conference will take place at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, the Netherlands. Surrounded by more than 130 years of automotive innovation, we explore the next chapter in homologation.
Leidsestraatweg 57
2594 BB The Hague
9:00AM – 6:00PM
A dinner will be offered to all attendees at the end of the conference program.
Would you like to stay overnight? You can book your own room at Van der Valk Wassenaar. We have arranged a 10% discount on the Best Available Rate for conference attendees. This flexible rate may vary per day, but guarantees the best price available at the time of booking. To make your own reservation, please use the link below and enter the booking code DHW‑RDWEVENT (subject to availability): Accommodation Booking.
Previous edition
The RDW Summer Conference is a biennial event focused on relevant developments in type approval and testing. Curious about the previous edition? Watch the aftermovie of the 2024 conference below.
Moving forward together
Ensuring safe, compliant and future-proof mobility requires collaboration across the entire homologation ecosystem. The choices we make today influence how homologation will function tomorrow.
Will you join the conversation shaping that future? Please use the registration button below to sign up. If you are unable to attend, you may nomiate a colleague by formwarding the registration link Summer Conference 2026 or sending their name and email adress to [email protected]. For any questions, please feel free to contact us at this address.
