What does the tachograph record?

The device shown in the image is a tachograph. It is used in commercial vehicles to record various parameters related to driving and vehicle operation. Primarily, it tracks the driving period and the speed traveled, which are essential for ensuring compliance with regulations regarding driving hours and rest periods outlined in German and EU traffic laws.

The driving period data helps monitor how long a driver has been on the road, promoting road safety by preventing driver fatigue. The speed data can be crucial for understanding driving behavior and ensuring adherence to speed limits.

While some tachographs may also offer additional information like fuel consumption, the core functions important for regulatory compliance focus on the driving period and speed. Hence, both these elements are critical to the overall purpose of the tachograph in monitoring and managing road safety and driver conditions.