ISA2027 Prototype Protection Changes Explained | TISAX®
Learn how ISA2027 restructures the TISAX® Prototype Protection module, what the new requirements mean, and how suppliers can prepare.
ISA2027 SERIES
ISA2027- Prototype Protection Receives Its Biggest Update Yet
Not every company pursuing TISAX® needs Prototype Protection, but for those that do, it is one of the most demanding parts of the assessment.
Organizations responsible for prototype vehicles, confidential components, pre-production parts, or sensitive development projects are expected to protect these assets throughout their entire lifecycle.
With ISA2027, the Prototype Protection module receives its most significant update since it was introduced.
The goal is not to add unnecessary complexity, it is to make expectations clearer while strengthening accountability throughout the automotive supply chain.
What Is Prototype Protection?
Prototype Protection, often referred to as PTS, applies to organizations that handle confidential development projects on behalf of automotive customers.
Examples include:
Prototype vehicles
Pre-production components
Test parts
Engineering samples
Confidential customer projects
Development tools
Vehicles undergoing validation or testing
These assets often represent years of research and development.
Protecting them is not only about physical security, it is also about protecting customer trust and intellectual property.
What Has Changed in ISA2027?
The biggest structural change is the simplification of the Prototype Protection module.
Previously, the catalogue divided Prototype Protection into five separate control groups.
ISA2027 reorganizes these into two broader domains:
Organizational Requirements
Physical and Environmental Security
This new structure makes it easier to understand which controls focus on governance and which focus on protecting physical assets.
The intent is not to lower expectations, but to improve clarity and consistency during implementation and assessment.
New Requirements for Traceability
ISA2027 also introduces stronger expectations around traceability.
Organizations may now be expected to demonstrate better control over protected vehicles, components, and parts throughout their lifecycle.
Depending on the nature of the project, this may include:
Tracking where protected items are located
Recording transfers between facilities
Controlling access to prototype assets
Maintaining accountability throughout development activities
Being able to explain where sensitive items are, who has access to them, and how they are protected becomes increasingly important.
Disposal Is Now Part of the Lifecycle
Another notable addition is the emphasis on proper disposal, recycling, or return of protected items. Prototype components do not stop being sensitive once testing is complete.
Organizations should have clear processes for handling customer requirements related to:
Disposal
Recycling
Return of components
Return of tooling
Secure destruction where applicable
These activities should be documented and supported by appropriate evidence.
Why This Matters in the Americas
Many suppliers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico support global vehicle development programs. Even if the final vehicle is produced elsewhere, prototype work often takes place across multiple countries and facilities.
Organizations involved in engineering, validation, testing, manufacturing support, or prototype logistics should understand whether Prototype Protection applies to their customer relationships.
Understanding these requirements early helps prevent costly changes later in a project.
What Auditors Will Likely Want to See
When Prototype Protection applies, assessors will typically expect evidence that confidential assets are protected throughout their lifecycle.
Examples may include:
Visitor management procedures
Restricted access areas
Badge-controlled facilities
CCTV coverage
Traceability records
Prototype handling procedures
Transportation controls
Disposal or return records
Employee awareness training
Customer-specific handling requirements
As with other TISAX® requirements, assessors are interested in operational evidence rather than documentation alone.
Common Misunderstandings
"Prototype Protection applies to every TISAX® assessment." - No
PTS only applies when required by customer expectations and the defined assessment objectives.
"Prototype Protection is only about fences and cameras." - Physical security is important, but organizational processes, accountability, and lifecycle management are equally important.
"Once testing is complete, the security requirements end." - Not necessarily
ISA2027 reinforces the need to manage protected assets until they are properly returned, recycled, or securely disposed of according to customer requirements.
Practical Steps for Organizations
If your organization supports prototype programs, consider reviewing:
How prototype assets are tracked
Who has physical access
Visitor management procedures
Transportation controls
Storage requirements
Disposal and return procedures
Customer-specific prototype requirements
Small improvements in these areas today can significantly reduce assessment findings tomorrow
Key Takeaways
ISA2027 introduces the largest Prototype Protection update since the module was created
Five control groups have been simplified into two major domains
Greater emphasis is placed on traceability and lifecycle management
Disposal, recycling, and return procedures receive additional attention
Organizations should focus on demonstrating practical implementation supported by evidence
Call to Action
If your organization handles prototype vehicles, confidential components, or sensitive development projects, understanding these changes should be part of your ISA2027 preparation.
At tisaxusa.com, you'll find practical guidance, educational videos, and free TISAX® tools that have already been updated to align with ISA2027, helping organizations in the Americas prepare with confidence.