IMDS Newsletter 66 brings essential updates on upcoming system releases, regulatory changes, working group initiatives, and global industry insights. The focus remains on improving data quality, transparency, and preparing suppliers for sustainability, chemical, and circular economy requirements.

IMDS Release 15.2 – Launch on 21 January 2026

The new IMDS Release 15.2 will go live on 21 January 2026, offering enhanced regulatory accuracy, improved usability, and greater system transparency. Suppliers should prepare early to leverage these improvements.

Functional Changes

Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) Update

Ceramics and glass (IMDS category 7.2) are now exempt from BPR reporting.

Supplier Benefits:

  • Reduced reporting workload
  • Lower risk of incorrect BPR alerts
  • Better alignment with EU regulations
“Rest” Field Restrictions

The “Rest” field cannot be used for substances listed in GADSL or REACH SVHCs. All regulated substances must be declared with proper IDs and concentrations.

Search Result Enhancement

A new column, “Date of Last Status Change,” will be visible in search results, allowing users to:

  • Track recent updates in MDS
  • Monitor supplier changes
  • Manage supply chain data efficiently

Check Message Update

System messages now clarify that passing a check does not guarantee full compliance with customer or legal requirements, emphasizing the difference between validation and compliance.

IMDS Working Groups

IMDS Working Groups (WGs) are expert teams formed under the IMDS Steering Committee to improve how the IMDS system works and how well it supports regulatory compliance, data quality, and future sustainability needs in the automotive industry.

The members of Working groups:

IMDS Working Groups typically include:

  • OEM representatives (automotive manufacturers)
  • Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers
  • Material and chemical experts
  • IMDS system specialists
  • Industry associations (e.g., CLEPA, AIAG)
The Actions of the working group:
  • Faster MDS Updates: Speed up updates for changing substance classifications, regulatory lists, and legal rules.
  • Recycled Content Reporting: Improve accuracy and integration with Digital Product Passports (DPP).
  • RoHS & Regulatory Support: Enhanced support for EU RoHS compliance, exemption tracking, and regional substance regulations.
  • Standard Part Names & AI: Standardized naming and AI suggestions to improve data quality and searchability.

AIAG Hybrid IMDS Conference – October 2025

Topics included Digital Product Passports, EU Battery Regulation alignment, Product Carbon Footprint reporting, and supplier challenges. Presentations from CLEPA and other organizations highlighted sustainability-driven compliance trends.

Common Supplier Questions

  • Homogeneous Material Definition: Declared as a single material; coatings, platings, and treatments must be reported separately.
  • OEM IMDS Coordinators: A global directory is available to clarify requirements, resolve validation issues, and guide acceptance criteria.

Strategic Takeaways for Suppliers & OEMs

  • Prepare early for Release 15.2
  • Avoid improper use of the “Rest” field
  • Monitor working group updates on recycled content and RoHS
  • Align processes with sustainability and circular economy requirements

Conclusion

IMDS is evolving from a material reporting system into a central platform for compliance and sustainability data. Early adaptation ensures readiness for future regulations, customer demands, and digital product passport integration.

Source: imds-newsletter66

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