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Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/535 of 31 March 2021 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2019/2144 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards uniform procedures and technical specifications for the type-approval of vehicles, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles, as regards their general construction characteristics and safety (Text with EEA relevance)

Type Implementing Regulation
Publication 2021-04-06
Last updated 2025-01-01
State In force
Department European Commission, GROW
Source EUR-Lex
articles 14
Reform history JSON API
  • 3.1.A minimum of three upper legform to frontal protection system tests shall be carried out on test points between the Upper and Lower Frontal protection System Reference Lines. The test points shall be at positions judged by the technical service to be the most likely to cause injury. Tests shall be carried out to different types of structure where they vary throughout the area to be assessed. The points tested by the technical service shall be recorded in the test report.
  • 3.2.For vehicles with a lower frontal protection system reference line height equal to, or greater than, 500 mm the requirements of this Section shall apply.
4. For vehicles with a lower frontal protection system reference line height which is equal to, or greater than, 425 mm and less than 500 mm the manufacturer may choose to apply either this test or the test set out in Section D.
  • 4.1.The state of the vehicle or subsystem shall comply with the provisions in Section C. The stabilised temperature of the test apparatus and the vehicle or separate technical unit shall be 20° ± 4 °C.
  • 4.2.The upper legform impactor is described in Annex 4 to UN Regulation No 127.
  • 4.3.The test impactor shall be stored and handled in accordance with paragraphs 2.2. and 2.3. of Annex 5 to UN Regulation No 127.
  • 4.5.The tests shall be carried out in accordance with paragraphs 2.6. and 2.7. of Annex 5 to UN Regulation No 127.
Section F
Child/Small Adult headform to frontal protection system test
1. Specific requirements
  • 1.1.All the tests shall be performed at an impact speed of 35 km/h using a 3,5 kg headform test impactor for the child/small adult. The HPC calculated from the resultant of the accelerometer time histories shall not exceed 1 000 in all cases.
2. General
  • 2.1.The child/small adult headform impactor for the frontal protection system tests shall be in 'free flight' at the moment of impact. The impactor shall be released to free flight at such a distance from the frontal protection system that the test results are not influenced by any contact of the impactor with the propulsion system during rebound of the impactor.
  • 2.2.In all cases the impactors may be propelled by an air, spring or hydraulic gun, or by other means that can be shown to give the same result. The headform impactor shall be certified pursuant to paragraph 3. of Annex 6 to UN Regulation No 127.
3. Specification of the test
  • 3.1.A minimum of three headform impact tests shall be carried out at positions which are judged by the technical service to be the most likely to cause injury. Tests shall be to different types of structure, where these vary throughout the area to be assessed. Points tested by the technical service shall be recorded in the test report.
  • 3.2.Test points for the child/small adult headform impactor shall be chosen on parts of the frontal protection system where the frontal protection system wrap around distance exceeds 900 mm with the vehicle in its normal ride attitude or with the frontal protection system mounted on a test frame representing the vehicle to which it is to be fitted as if in its' normal ride attitude.
4. Test procedure
  • 4.1.The state of the vehicle or subsystem shall comply with the provisions in point 1 of Section C. The stabilised temperature of the test apparatus and the vehicle or separate technical unit shall be 20 °C ± 4 °C.
  • 4.2.The child/small adult headform impactor is described in Annex 4 to UN Regulation No 127.
  • 4.3.The impactor shall be mounted and propelled as specified in points 2.1. and 2.2.
  • 4.4.The tests shall be carried out in accordance with paragraphs 3. to 3.3.1. and 4.4. to 4.7. of Annex 5 to UN Regulation No 127.

PART 3

Section A
EU TYPE-APPROVAL CERTIFICATE (SEPARATE TECHNICAL UNIT)

Communication concerning granting / extension / refusal / withdrawal ([^E0025]) of type-approval of a type of separate technical unit with regard to frontal protection systems in accordance with the requirements laid down in Annex XII to Regulation (EU) 2021/535, as last amended by Regulation (EU) No …/…

Number of the EU type-approval certificate:

Reason for extension / refusal / withdrawal (25) :

SECTION I
(To be completed in accordance with Section I of the template of Model C in Annex III to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/683)
SECTION II
(To be completed in accordance with Section II of the template of Model C in Annex III to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/683)

Addendum

to EU type-approval certificate number …

  • 1.Additional information:
  • 1.1.Method of attachment:
  • 1.2.Assembly and mounting instructions:
  • 2.List of vehicles on which the frontal protection system may be fitted, any usage instructions and necessary conditions for fitting:
  • […]
  • 5.Remarks
  • […]
  • 6.Test results according to the requirements of Part 2 of Annex XII of Regulation (EU) 2021/535.
Test Value recorded Value recorded Value recorded Pass/Fail
Lower legform to frontal protection system — three test positions (where performed) Bending angle … degrees
Lower legform to frontal protection system — three test positions (where performed) Shear displacement … mm
Lower legform to frontal protection system — three test positions (where performed) Acceleration at tibia … g
Upper legform to frontal protection system — three test positions (where performed) Sum of impact forces … kN
Upper legform to frontal protection system — three test positions (where performed) Bending moment … Nm
Child/small adult headform (3,5 kg) to frontal protection system HPC values (at least three values)
Section B
EU type-approval mark of separate technical unit
  • 1.The EU type-approval mark for separate technical units referred to in Article 38(2) of Regulation (EU) 2018/858 shall consist of:
  • 1.1.A rectangle surrounding the lower-case letter ‘e’, followed by the distinguishing number of the Member State which has granted the type-approval for the component or separate technical unit:
1 for Germany
2 for France
3 for Italy
4 for the Netherlands
5 for Sweden
6 for Belgium
7 for Hungary
8 for the Czech Republic
9 for Spain
13 for Luxembourg
17 for Finland
18 for Denmark
19 for Romania
20 for Poland
21 for Portugal
23 for Greece
24 for Ireland
25 for Croatia
26 for Slovenia
27 for Slovakia
29 for Estonia
32 for Latvia
12 for Austria
34 for Bulgaria
36 for Lithuania
49 for Cyprus
50 for Malta
  • 1.2.In the vicinity of the rectangle, two digits indicating the series of amendments laying down the requirements with which this separate technical units complies, ‘00’ at present, followed by a space and the five-digit number referred to in point 2.4. of Annex IV of Regulation (EU) 2018/858.
  • 2.The type-approval mark of the separate technical units shall be indelible and clearly legible.
  • 3.An example of an EU separate technical unit type-approval mark is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1
Example of EU separate technical unit type-approval mark

Image omitted; see official source

Explanatory note:

  • LegendThe EU separate technical unit type-approval was issued by Bulgaria under number 00646. The first two digits "03" indicate that the separate technical unit was approved according to this Regulation. The letter ‘X’ means that the frontal protection system is intended for fitting only to vehicles of categories M1 or N1 which do not comply with either Regulation (EC) No 78/2009, Directive 2003/102/EC or UN Regulation No 127.

ANNEX XIII

MASSES AND DIMENSIONS

PART 1

Section A
Information document for EU type-approval of a motor vehicles and their trailers with regard to their masses and dimensions
MODEL

Information document No … relating to the EU type-approval of a motor vehicle or trailer with regard to the masses and dimensions.

The following information shall be supplied in triplicate and include a list of contents. Any drawings or pictures shall be supplied in appropriate scale and in sufficient detail on size A4 or on a folder of A4 format. Photographs, if any, shall show sufficient detail.

0.

0.1.

0.2.

0.2.1.

0.4.

0.5.

0.8.

0.9.

1.

1.1.

1.2.

1.3.

1.3.1.

1.3.2.

1.3.3.

1.4.

1.7.

1.9.

1.10.

2.

2.1.

2.1.1.

2.1.2.

2.1.2.1.

2.1.2.2.

2.2.

2.2.1.

2.2.1.1.

2.2.1.2.

2.2.1.3.

2.2.2.

2.2.2.1.

2.3.

2.3.1.

2.3.2.

2.4.

2.4.1.

2.4.1.1.

2.4.1.1.1.

2.4.1.1.2.

2.4.1.1.3.

2.4.1.2.

2.4.1.2.1.

2.4.1.2.2.

2.4.1.3.

2.4.1.4.

2.4.1.4.1.

2.4.1.5.

2.4.1.5.1.

2.4.1.5.2.

2.4.1.6.

2.4.1.6.1.

2.4.1.6.2.

2.4.1.6.3.

2.4.1.8.

2.4.2.

2.4.2.1.

2.4.2.1.1.

2.4.2.1.3.

2.4.2.2.

2.4.2.2.1.

2.4.2.3.

2.4.2.4.

2.4.2.4.1.

2.4.2.5.

2.4.2.5.1.

2.4.2.5.2.

2.4.2.6.

2.4.2.6.1.

2.4.2.6.2.

2.4.2.6.3.

2.4.2.8.

2.4.3.

2.4.3.1.

2.4.3.2.

2.4.3.3.

2.5.

2.6.

2.6.1.

2.6.2.

2.6.4.

2.8.

2.8.1.

2.9.

2.10.

2.11.

2.11.1.

2.11.2.

2.11.3.

2.11.3.1.

2.11.4.

2.11.4.2.

2.11.5.

2.11.6.

2.12.

2.12.1.

2.12.2.

2.12.3.

2.16.

2.16.1.

2.16.2.

2.16.3.

2.16.4.

2.16.5.

3.

3.1.

3.2.

3.2.1.8.

3.3.

3.3.1.1.

3.4.

3.4.1.

3.4.5.4.

3.9.

4.

4.1.

5.

5.1.

5.2.

5.3.

5.4.

5.5.

6.

6.1.

6.2.

6.2.3.

6.2.3.1.

6.2.3.2.

6.2.4.

6.2.4.1.

6.2.4.2.

6.3.

9.

9.1.

9.10.3.

9.10.3.1.

9.10.3.1.1.

9.10.3.5.

9.10.3.5.1.

9.10.3.5.2.

9.25.

9.25.1.

9.26.

9.26.1.

9.26.2.

9.26.3.

9.27.3.1.

9.27.3.2.

9.27.3.3.

11.

11.1.

11.2.

13.

13.1.

13.2.

13.2.1.

13.2.2.

13.2.3.

13.2.4.

13.3.

13.3.1.

13.3.2.

13.3.3.

13.4.

13.4.1.

13.4.2.

13.4.3.

13.4.4.

13.7.

13.12.

Explanatory note:

This information document is based on the template laid down in Annex I to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/683 and shall be completed with the relevant information under the point numbers listed above as defined in that template.

Section B
Information document for the EU type-approval of an aerodynamic device or equipment as a separate technical unit
MODEL

Information document No … relating to the EU type-approval of an aerodynamic device or equipment as a separate technical unit.

The following information shall be supplied in triplicate and include a list of contents. Any drawings shall be supplied in appropriate scale and in sufficient detail on size A4 or on a folder of A4 format. Photographs, if any, shall show sufficient detail.

0.

0.1.

0.2.

0.3.

0.3.1.

0.5.

0.7.

0.8.

0.9.

9.26.

9.26.1.

9.26.2.

9.26.3.

9.26.3.1.

9.26.3.2.

9.26.3.3.

9.27.

9.27.1.

9.27.2.

9.27.3.

9.27.3.1.

9.27.3.2.

9.27.3.3.

Explanatory note:

This information document is based on the template laid down in Annex I to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/683 and shall be completed with the relevant information under the point numbers listed above as defined in that template.

PART 2

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Section A
Definitions and general provisions
  • 1.For the purposes of this Annex, the following definitions shall apply:
  • 1.1. ‘standard equipment’ means the basic configuration of a vehicle which is equipped with all the features that are required under the regulatory acts referred to in Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2018/858, including all features that are fitted without giving rise to any further specifications on configuration or equipment level;
  • 1.2. ‘optional equipment’ means all the features not included in the standard equipment which are fitted to a vehicle under the responsibility of the manufacturer that can be ordered by the customer;
  • 1.3. ‘mass in running order’ means:
  • (a) in the case of a motor vehicle: the mass of the vehicle, with its fuel tank(s) filled to at least 90 % of its or their capacity/ies, including the mass of the driver, of the fuel and liquids, fitted with the standard equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and, when they are fitted, the mass of the bodywork, the cabin, the coupling and the spare wheel(s) as well as the tools;
  • (b) in the case of a trailer: the mass of the vehicle including the fuel and liquids, fitted with the standard equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications, and, when they are fitted, the mass of the bodywork, additional coupling(s), the spare wheel(s) and the tools;
  • 1.4. 'mass of the optional equipment' means the maximum mass of the combinations of optional equipment which may be fitted to the vehicle in addition to the standard equipment, in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications;
  • 1.5. 'actual mass of the vehicle' means the mass in running order plus the mass of the optional equipment fitted to an individual vehicle;
  • 1.6. ‘technically permissible maximum laden mass (M)’ means the maximum mass allocated to a vehicle on the basis of its construction features and its design performances; the technically permissible laden mass of a trailer or of a semi-trailer includes the static mass transferred to the towing vehicle when coupled;
  • 1.7. ‘technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination (MC)’ means the maximum mass allocated to the combination of a motor vehicle and one or more trailers on the basis of its construction features and its design performances or the maximum mass allocated to the combination of a tractor unit and a semi-trailer;
  • 1.8. ‘technically permissible maximum towable mass (TM)’ means the maximum mass of one or more trailers that may be towed by a towing vehicle which corresponds to the total load transmitted to the ground by the wheels of an axle or a group of axles on any trailer coupled to the towing vehicle;
  • 1.9. 'axle' means the common axis of rotation of two or more wheels whether power-driven or freely rotating, and whether in one or more segments located in the same plane perpendicular to the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle;
  • 1.10. 'group of axles' means a number of axles having an axle spacing that is restricted to one of the axle spacing referred to as distance 'd' in Annex I to Directive 96/53/EC and which interact due to the specific design of the suspension;
  • 1.11. ‘solo axle’ means an axle that cannot be considered as part of a group of axles;
  • 1.12. ‘technically permissible maximum mass on the axle (m)’ means the mass corresponding to the maximum permissible static vertical load transmitted to the ground by the wheels of the axle, on the basis of the construction features of the axle and of the vehicle and their design performances;
  • 1.13. ‘technically permissible maximum mass on a group of axles (μ)’ means the mass corresponding to the maximum permissible static vertical load transmitted to the ground by the wheels of the group of axles, on the basis of the construction features of the group of axles and of the vehicle and their design performances;
  • 1.14. 'coupling' means a mechanical device including component items as defined in paragraphs 2.1. to 2.6. of Regulation No 55 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) ([^E0026]) and a close-coupling device as defined in paragraph 2.1.1. of UN Regulation No 102 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) ([^E0027]);
  • 1.15. 'coupling point' means the centre of engagement of the coupling fitted to a towed vehicle within the coupling fitted to a towing vehicle;
  • 1.16. 'mass of the coupling' means the mass of the coupling itself and of the parts necessary for the attachment of the coupling to the vehicle;
  • 1.17. ‘technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point’ means:
  • (a) in the case of a towing vehicle, the mass, corresponding to the maximum permissible static vertical load on the coupling point (‘S’ or ‘U’ value) of a towing vehicle, on the basis of the construction features of the coupling and of the towing vehicle;
  • (b) in the case of a semi-trailer, a centre-axle trailer or a rigid drawbar trailer, the mass corresponding to the maximum permissible static vertical load (‘S’ or ‘U’ value) to be transferred by the trailer to the towing vehicle at the coupling point, on the basis of the construction features of the coupling and of the trailer;
  • 1.18. 'mass of the passengers' means a rated mass depending on the vehicle category multiplied by the number of seating positions including, if any, the seating positions for crew members and the number of standees, but not including the driver;
  • 1.19. 'mass of the driver' means a mass rated at 75 kg located at the driver’s seating reference point;
  • 1.20. 'pay-mass' means the difference between the technically permissible maximum laden mass and the mass in running order increased by the mass of the passengers and the mass of the optional equipment;
  • 1.21. 'length' means the dimension defined in points 6.1.1., 6.1.2. and 6.1.3. of Standard ISO 612:1978; this definition also applies to articulated vehicles made up of two or more sections;
  • 1.22. 'width' means the dimension defined in point 6.2. of Standard ISO 612:1978;
  • 1.23. 'height' means the dimension defined in point 6.3. of Standard ISO 612:1978;
  • 1.24. 'wheelbase' means the following:
  • (a) for motor vehicles and drawbar trailers, the horizontal distance between the centre of the first and the last axle;
  • (b) for centre-axle trailers, semi-trailers and rigid drawbar trailers, the distance between the vertical axis of the coupling and the centre of the last axle;
  • 1.25. 'axle spacing' means the distance between two consecutive axles; for centre-axle trailers, semi-trailers and rigid drawbar trailer, the first axle spacing is the horizontal distance between the vertical axis of the front coupling and the centre of the first axle;
  • 1.26. 'track' means the distance referred to in point 6.5. of Standard ISO 612:1978;
  • 1.27. ‘fifth wheel lead’ means the distance referred to in point 6.19.2. of Standard ISO 612:1978 in, taking into account the note referred to in point 6.19. of the same standard;
  • 1.28. ‘front fitting radius of semi-trailer’ means the horizontal distance from the axis of the kingpin to any point at the front of the semi-trailer;
  • 1.29. ‘front overhang’ means the horizontal distance between the vertical plane passing through the first axle or the kingpin axle in the case of a semi-trailer and the foremost point of the vehicle;
  • 1.30. ‘rear overhang’ means the horizontal distance between the vertical plane passing through the last rear axle and the rearmost point of the vehicle; where the vehicle is fitted with a coupling that is not removable, the rearmost point of the vehicle is the coupling point;
  • 1.31. 'length of the loading area' means the distance from the foremost internal point to the rearmost internal point of the cargo area, measured horizontally in the longitudinal plane of the vehicle;
  • 1.32. ‘rear swing-out’ means the distance between the initial point and the actual extreme point reached by the rear end of a vehicle when manoeuvring in the conditions specified in Section C, point 8, or Section D, point 7;
  • 1.33. 'axle-lift device' means a mechanism fitted to a vehicle for the purpose of raising the axle clear off the ground and lowering it to the ground;
  • 1.34. 'lift axle or retractable axle' means an axle which can be raised from its normal position and re-lowered by an axle-lift device;
  • 1.35. 'loadable axle' means an axle the load on which can be varied without the axle being raised by the use of an axle-lift device;
  • 1.36. 'air suspension' means a suspension system on which at least 75 % of the spring effect is caused by the air spring;
  • 1.37. 'class of a bus or of a coach' means a set of vehicles as defined in paragraphs 2.1.1. and 2.1.2. of UN Regulation No 107– Uniform provisions concerning the approval of category M2 or M3 vehicles with regard to their general construction ([^E0028]);
  • 1.38. 'articulated vehicle' means a vehicle of category M2 or M3 as defined in paragraph 2.1.3. of UN Regulation No 107;
  • 1.39. 'indivisible load' means a load that cannot, for the purposes of carriage by road, be divided into two or more loads without undue expense or risk of damage and which, owing to its mass or dimension, cannot be carried by a vehicle the masses and dimensions of which comply with the maximum authorised masses and dimensions applicable in a Member State.
  • 2.General provisions
  • 2.1.The following masses shall be determined by the manufacturer for each version within a vehicle type, irrespective of the state of completion of the vehicle:
  • (a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
  • (b) the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination;
  • (c) the technically permissible maximum towable mass;
  • (d) the technically permissible maximum mass on the axles or the technically permissible maximum mass on a group of axles;
  • (e) the technically permissible maximum masses at the coupling point(s), taking into account the technical features of the couplings that are fitted or can be fitted to the vehicle.
  • 2.1.1.When determining the masses referred to in point 2.1, the manufacturer shall apply the best practices of good engineering and the best available technical knowledge in order to minimise the risks of mechanical failure, in particular those due to fatigue of materials, and to avoid damage to the road infrastructure.
  • 2.1.2.When determining the masses referred to in point 2.1, the manufacturer shall apply the maximum speed by construction of the vehicle.
  • Where the vehicle is equipped by the manufacturer with a speed limitation device, the maximum speed by construction shall be the true speed permitted by the speed limitation device.
  • 2.1.3.When determining the masses referred to in point 2.1., the manufacturer shall not impose restrictions on the use of the vehicle except those concerning the tyre capacities that can be adjusted to the speed by construction as is allowed under UN Regulation No 54.
  • 2.1.4.For incomplete vehicles, including chassis-cabin vehicles, that require a further stage of completion, the manufacturer shall provide all relevant information to the next stage manufacturers so that the requirements of this Regulation continue to be fulfilled.
  • For the purposes of the first paragraph, the manufacturer shall specify the position of the center of gravity of the mass corresponding to the sum of the load.
  • 2.1.5.Incomplete vehicles of categories M2, M3, N2 and N3 not fitted with a bodywork shall be designed so as to allow the subsequent stage manufacturers to be able to fulfil the requirements of points 7 and 8 in Section C and points 6 and 7 in Section D.
  • 3.For the purposes of mass distribution calculations, the manufacturer shall provide the type-approval authority, for each technical configuration within the vehicle type as determined by the set of values of the relevant points in the information document in accordance with Section A of Part 1 with the information necessary to identify the following masses:
  • (a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
  • (b) the technically permissible maximum mass on the axles or group of axles;
  • (c) the technically permissible maximum towable mass;
  • (d) the technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point(s);
  • (e) the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination.
  • The information shall be provided in tabular or any other appropriate format, agreed to by the approval authority.
  • 3.1.Where the optional equipment significantly affects the masses and dimensions of the vehicle, the manufacturer shall provide the technical service with the location, mass and geometrical position of the gravity centre with respect to the axles of the optional equipment that can be fitted to the vehicle.
  • However, where the optional equipment is made up of several parts located in various spaces in the vehicle, the manufacturer may instead provide the technical service with the distribution of the mass of the optional equipment on the axles only.
  • 3.2.For groups of axles, the manufacturer shall indicate the load distribution among the axles of the total mass applied to the group of axles. Where necessary, the manufacturer shall state the distribution formulae or produce the relevant distribution graphs.
  • 3.3.The manufacturer shall, upon a request by the type-approval authority or the technical service, make available for test purposes a vehicle representative of the type to be approved.
  • 3.4.The vehicle manufacturer may submit an application for recognition of the equivalence of a suspension to air suspension to the type-approval authority.
  • 3.4.1.The equivalence of a suspension to air suspension shall be recognised by the type-approval authority where the requirements set out in Section L are fulfilled.
  • 3.4.2.Where the equivalence of a suspension to air suspension is recognised by the technical service, the latter shall issue a test report, which together with a technical description of the suspension shall be attached to the EU type-approval certificate.
  • 4.Special provisions as regards registration/in-service maximum permissible masses
  • 4.1.For the purposes of registration and entry into service of vehicles type-approved under this Regulation, national authorities may determine, for each variant and version within the type of vehicle, all of the following masses that are permitted for national traffic or for international traffic under Directive 96/53/EC:
  • (a) the registration/in-service maximum permissible laden mass;
  • (b) the registration/in-service maximum permissible mass on the axle(s);
  • (c) the registration/in-service maximum permissible mass on the group of axles;
  • (d) the registration/in-service maximum permissible towable mass;
  • (e) the registration/in-service maximum permissible laden mass of the combination.
  • 4.2.National authorities shall establish the procedure for the determination of the registration/in service maximum permissible masses referred to in point 4.1. They shall designate the competent authority entrusted with the determination of those masses, and shall specify the information that must be provided to that competent authority.
  • 4.3.The registration/in-service maximum permissible masses determined in accordance with the procedure referred to in point 4.1. shall not exceed the maximum masses referred to in point 2.1.
  • 4.4.The manufacturer shall be consulted by the competent authority as regards the mass distribution on the axles or group of axles in order to ensure the proper functioning of the systems of the vehicle, in particular the brake- and steering system.
  • 4.5.When determining the registration/in-service maximum permissible masses, national authorities shall ensure that the requirements of the regulatory acts listed in Parts I and II of Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2018/858 continue to be fulfilled.
  • 4.6.Where national authorities conclude that the requirements of one of the regulatory acts listed in Parts I and II of Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2018/858, with the exception of this Regulation, are no longer fulfilled, they shall require that fresh tests are conducted and a new type-approval or an extension as the case may be, be granted by the type-approval authority that has granted the initial type-approval under the regulatory act in question.
Section B
Vehicles of category M1 and N1
  • 1.Maximum authorised dimensions
  • 1.1.The dimensions shall not exceed the following values:
  • 1.1.1.Length: 12,00 m.
  • 1.1.2.Width:
  • (a) M1: 2,55 m;
  • (b) N1: 2,55 m;
  • (c) N1: 2,60 m for vehicles fitted with a bodywork with insulated walls of at least 45 mm thick, having bodywork code 04 or 05, as referred to in Appendix 2 to Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2018/858;
  • 1.1.3.Height: 4,00 m.
  • 1.2.For the purposes of measurement of the length, width and height, the vehicle shall be at its mass in running order, placed on a horizontal and flat surface with tyres inflated at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
  • 1.3.The devices and equipment referred to in Section F shall not be taken into account for the determination of the length, width and height.
  • 2.Mass distribution
  • 2.1.The sum of the technically permissible maximum mass on the axles shall not be less than the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle.
  • 2.2.The technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle shall not be less than the mass of the vehicle in running order plus the mass of the passengers plus the mass of the optional equipment plus the mass of the coupling if not included in the mass in running order.
  • 2.3.Where the vehicle is laden to the technically permissible maximum laden mass, the mass on each axle shall not exceed the technically permissible maximum mass on that axle.
  • 2.4.Where the vehicle is laden to the technically permissible maximum laden mass, the mass on the front axle shall in no event be less than 30 % for M1 vehicles, and no less than 20 % for N1 vehicles of the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle.
  • 2.5.Where the vehicle is laden to the technically permissible maximum laden mass plus the technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point, the mass on the front axle shall in no event be less than 20 % of the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle.
  • 2.6.Where a vehicle is equipped with removable seats, the verification procedure shall be limited to the condition with the maximum number of seating positions.
  • 2.7.For the purposes of verifying the requirements laid down in points 2.2., 2.3. and 2.4.:
  • (a) The seats shall be adjusted as prescribed in point 2.7.1.;
  • (b) The masses of the passengers, the pay-mass and the mass of the optional equipment shall be distributed as prescribed in points 2.7.2. to 2.7.4.2.3.
  • 2.7.1.Seat adjustment
  • 2.7.1.1.The seats where adjustable shall be moved to their rearmost position.
  • 2.7.1.2.Where there are other possibilities for adjusting the seat (vertical, angled, seat back, etc.) the adjusted positions shall be as specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • 2.7.1.3.In the case of suspension seats, the seat shall be locked in the position specified by the manufacturer.
  • 2.7.2.Distribution of the mass of passengers
  • 2.7.2.1.The mass representing each passenger shall be 75 kg.
  • 2.7.2.2.The mass for each passenger shall be located at the seating reference point (i.e. the ‘R point’ of the seat).
  • 2.7.2.3.In the case of special purpose vehicle, the requirement of point 2.7.2.2 shall apply mutatis mutandis (for example, mass of an injured person lying on the stretcher in the case of an ambulance).
  • 2.7.3.Distribution of the mass of the optional equipment
  • 2.7.3.1.The mass of the optional equipment shall be distributed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • 2.7.4.Distribution of the pay-mass
  • 2.7.4.1.M1 vehicles
  • 2.7.4.1.1.As regards M1 vehicles, the pay-mass shall be distributed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications in agreement with the technical service.
  • 2.7.4.1.2.As regards motor caravans the minimum pay-mass (PM) shall meet the following requirement:
  • PM in kg ≥ 10 (n + L)
  • Where
  • ‘ n ’ is the maximum number of passengers plus the driver and
  • ‘ L ’ is the overall length of the vehicle in metre
  • 2.7.4.2.N1 vehicles
  • 2.7.4.2.1.As regards vehicles with bodywork, the pay-mass shall be distributed uniformly on the cargo bed;
  • 2.7.4.2.2.As regards vehicles without bodywork (e.g. chassis-cab), the manufacturer shall state the extreme permissible positions of the centre of gravity of the pay-mass increased by the mass of the equipment intended to accommodate goods (e.g. bodywork, tank, etc.) (for instance: from 0,50 m to 1,30 m in front of the first rear axle);
  • 2.7.4.2.3.As regards vehicles intended to be fitted with a fifth wheel coupling, the manufacturer shall state the minimum and maximum fifth wheel lead.
  • 2.8.Additional requirements where the vehicle is capable of towing a trailer
  • 2.8.1.The requirements referred to in points 2.2., 2.3. and 2.4. shall apply taking into account the mass of the coupling and the technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point.
  • 2.8.2.Without prejudice to the requirements of point 2.4., the technically permissible maximum mass on the rear axle(s) may be exceeded by not more than 15 %.
  • 2.8.2.1.Where the technically permissible maximum mass on the rear axle(s) is exceeded by not more than 15 %, the requirements of paragraph 5.2.4.1. of UN Regulation No 142 ([^E0029]) shall apply.
  • 2.8.2.2.In the Member States where the road traffic legislation allows it, the manufacturer may indicate in an appropriate supporting document, such as the owner’s manual or the maintenance book that the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle may be exceeded by not more than 10 % or 100 kg, whichever value is lower.
  • This allowance shall apply only when towing a trailer in the conditions specified in point 2.8.2.1. provided that the operating speed is restricted to 100 km/h or less.
  • 3.Towable mass and mass at the coupling point
  • 3.1.As regards the technically permissible maximum towable mass, the following requirements shall apply:
  • 3.1.1.Trailer fitted with a service braking system
  • 3.1.1.1.The technically permissible maximum towable mass of the vehicle shall be the lowest of the following values:
  • (a) the technically permissible maximum towable mass based on the construction features of the vehicle and the strength of the coupling;
  • (b) the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the towing vehicle;
  • (c) 1.5 times the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the towing vehicle in the case of an off-road vehicle as defined in Part A of Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2018/858.
  • 3.1.1.2.However, the technically permissible maximum towable mass shall in no case exceed 3 500  kg.
  • 3.1.2.Trailer without a service braking system
  • 3.1.2.1.The permissible towable mass shall be the lowest of the following values:
  • (a) the technically permissible maximum towable mass based on the construction features of the vehicle and the strength of the coupling;
  • (b) half of the mass in running order of the towing vehicle.
  • 3.1.2.2.The technically permissible maximum towable mass shall in no case exceed 750 kg.
  • 3.2.The technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point shall not be less than 4 % of the maximum permissible towable mass and not be less than 25 kg
  • 3.3.The manufacturer shall specify in the owner’s manual the technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point, the mounting points of the coupling on the towing vehicle and the maximum permissible rear overhang for the coupling point.
  • 3.4.The technically permissible maximum towable mass shall not be defined by reference to the number of passengers.
  • 4.Mass of the combination
  • The technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination shall not exceed the sum of the technically permissible maximum laden mass plus the technically permissible maximum towable mass.
  • 5.Hill starting ability
  • 5.1.The towing vehicle shall be able to start the vehicle combination five times on an uphill gradient of at least 12 % within five minutes.
  • 5.2.In order to conduct the test described in point 5.1., the towing vehicle and the trailer shall be laden as to equal the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination.
  • 6.Mass of the energy storage system:
  • 6.1.In the case of zero-emission vehicles of category N1, the mass of the energy storage system shall be established on the basis of the documentation provided by the manufacturer. The correctness of the declared information shall be verified by the Technical Service, to the satisfaction of the Type-Approval Authority.
  • 6.2.In the case referred to in point 6.1, the manufacturer shall indicate the following additional symbol as well as the value of the mass of the energy storage system below or to the side of the mandatory inscriptions on the manufacturer’s statutory plate, outside a clearly marked rectangle which shall enclose only the mandatory information.

‘(EU) 2019/631 ARTICLE 2(1)(b) COMPLIANT – XXXX KG’

  • The height of the symbol’s characters and stated value shall not be less than 4 mm.
  • In addition, until the introduction of a dedicated entry in the Certificate of Conformity, the value of the mass of the energy storage system shall be stated under ‘remarks’ in the Certificate of Conformity, as to allow inclusion of this information in on-board vehicle registration papers, as follows:

‘Additional mass due to batteries: …… kg’  ([^E0030])

Section C
Vehicles of category M2 and M3
  • 1.Maximum authorised dimensions
  • 1.1.The dimensions shall not exceed the following values:
  • 1.1.1. Length
  • (a) Vehicle with two axles and one section: 13,50 m
  • (b) Vehicle with three or more axles and one section: 15,00 m
  • (c) Articulated vehicle: 18,75 m
  • 1.1.2. Width: 2,55 m;
  • 1.1.3. Height: 4,00 m
  • 1.2.For the purposes of measurement of the length, width and height, the vehicle shall be at its mass in running order, placed on a horizontal and flat surface with tyres inflated at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
  • 1.3.The devices and equipment referred to in Section F shall not be taken into account for the determination of the length, width and height.
  • 1.3.1.Additional requirements for aerodynamic devices referred to in Section F.
  • 1.3.1.1.Aerodynamic devices and equipment not exceeding 500 mm in length in the in-use position shall not increase the overall usable cargo space. They shall be constructed in such a way as to make it possible to lock them in the retracted or folded and the in-use positions. Such devices and equipment shall furthermore be constructed so as to be retractable or foldable when the vehicle is at stand-still in such a way that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle referred to in point 1.1.2. is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle referred to in point 1.1.1. is not exceeded by more than 200 mm as permitted only from a height above the ground of at least 1 050  mm so that they do not impair the capability of the vehicle to be used for intermodal transport. In addition, the requirements set out in points 1.3.1.1.1. and 1.3.1.1.3. shall be met.
  • 1.3.1.1.1.The aerodynamic devices and equipment shall be type-approved in accordance with this Regulation.
  • 1.3.1.1.2.It shall be possible for the operator to vary the position of the aerodynamic devices and equipment, and to retract or fold it, by applying a manual force not exceeding 40 daN. In addition, this may be done automatically as well.
  • 1.3.1.1.3.It is not required for aerodynamic devices and equipment to be retractable or foldable if the maximum dimensional requirements are fully complied with under all conditions.
  • 1.3.1.2.Aerodynamic devices and equipment exceeding 500 mm in length in the in-use position shall not increase the overall usable cargo space. They shall be constructed in such a way as to make it possible to lock them in both the retracted or folded and the in-use positions. Such devices and equipment shall furthermore be constructed so as to be retractable or foldable when the vehicle is at stand-still in such a way that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle referred to in point 1.1.2. is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle referred to in point 1.1.1. is not exceeded by more than 200 mm as permitted only from a height above the ground of at least 1 050  mm so that they do not impair the capability of the vehicle to be used for intermodal transport. In addition, the requirements set out in points 1.3.1.2.1. to 1.3.1.2.4. shall be met.
  • 1.3.1.2.1.The aerodynamic devices and equipment shall be type-approved in accordance with this Regulation.
  • 1.3.1.2.2.It shall be possible for the operator to vary the position of the aerodynamic devices and equipment, and to retract or fold it, by applying a manual force not exceeding 40 daN. In addition, this may be done automatically as well.
  • 1.3.1.2.3.Each main vertical element or combination of elements and main horizontal element or combination of elements forming the aerodynamic devices and equipment shall, when installed on the vehicle and in the in-use position, withstand vertical and horizontal traction and push forces, applied sequentially in up, down, left and right direction, of 200 daN ± 10 % applied statically to the geometric centre of the relevant perpendicular projected surface, at a maximum pressure of 2,0 MPa. The aerodynamic devices and equipment may deform, but the system for adjustment and locking shall not release as a result of the applied forces. The deformation shall be limited to ensure that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle, during and after the test.
  • 1.3.1.2.4.Each main vertical element or combination of elements and main horizontal element or combination of elements forming the aerodynamic devices and equipment shall also, when in the retracted or folded position, withstand a horizontal traction force applied in longitudinal rearward direction, of 200 daN ± 10 % applied statically to the geometric centre of the relevant perpendicular projected surface, at a maximum pressure of 2,0 MPa. The aerodynamic devices and equipment may deform, but the system for adjustment and locking shall not release as a result of the applied forces. The deformation shall be limited to ensure that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 200 mm.
  • 1.3.1.3.It shall be verified by the technical service, to the satisfaction of the type-approval authority that aerodynamic devices and equipment positioned in both, the in-use and the retracted or folded positions, do not significantly impair cooling and ventilation of the powertrain, exhaust system and passenger cabin. All other applicable requirements relating to the vehicle systems shall be fully complied with when the aerodynamic devices and equipment are placed in both their in-use and retracted or folded positions.
  • By way of derogation concerning the applicable requirements relating to rear underrun protection, the horizontal distances between the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle as fitted with aerodynamic devices and equipment may be measured without taking the aerodynamic devices and equipment into account on condition that they exceed 200 mm in length, they are in the in-use condition and the fundamental sections of the elements placed at a height ≤ 2,0 m above the ground measured in unladen condition are made of material having a hardness of < 60 Shore (A). Narrow ribs, tubing and metal wire forming a frame or substrate to support the fundamental sections of the elements shall not be taken into account when determining the hardness. However, in order to eliminate the risk of injuries and penetration of other vehicles in the event of a collision, any ends of such ribs, tubing and metal wire shall not be directed rearward, with the aerodynamic devices and equipment both in the retracted or folded and the in-use positions.
  • As alternative to the derogation referred to in the previous paragraph, the horizontal distances between the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle as fitted with aerodynamic devices and equipment may be measured without taking the aerodynamic devices and equipment into account provided that they exceed 200 mm in length, they are in the in-use condition and those devices or equipment comply with the test provisions set out in Section I.
  • The horizontal distances between the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle shall however be measured with the aerodynamic devices and equipment positioned in the retracted or folded position or take into account the resulting projection length in accordance with point 1.6.1. of Section I, if this length exceeds that of the retracted or folded position.
  • 2.Mass distribution for vehicles fitted with bodywork
  • 2.1.Calculation procedure
  • Notations:
‘M’ technically permissible maximum laden mass;
‘TM’ technically permissible maximum towable mass;
‘MC’ technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination;
‘mi’ technically permissible maximum laden mass on the solo axle designated ‘i’, where ‘i’ varies from 1 to the total number of axles of the vehicle;
‘mc’ technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point;
‘μj’ the technically permissible maximum mass on the group of axles designated ‘j’, where j varies from 1 to the total number of groups of axles.
  • 2.1.1.Suitable calculations shall be carried out in order to make sure that the following requirements are fulfilled for each technical configuration within the type.
  • 2.1.2.In the case of vehicles fitted with loadable axles, the following calculations shall be carried out with the suspension of the axles loaded in the normal operating configuration.
  • 2.1.3.In the case of alternatively fuelled or zero-emission motor vehicles:
  • 2.1.3.1.The additional weight required for alternative fuel or zero-emission technology in accordance with points 2.3. and 2.4. of Annex I to Directive 96/53/EC shall be defined on the basis of the documentation provided by the manufacturer. The correctness of the declared information shall be verified by the Technical Service, to the satisfaction of the Type-Approval Authority.
  • 2.1.3.2.The manufacturer shall indicate the following additional symbol as well as the value of the additional weight below or to the side of the mandatory inscriptions on the manufacturer’s statutory plate, outside a clearly marked rectangle which shall enclose only the mandatory information.

‘96/53/EC ARTICLE 10B COMPLIANT – XXXX KG’

  • The height of the symbol’s characters and stated value shall not be less than 4 mm.
  • In addition, until the introduction of a dedicated entry in the Certificate of Conformity, the value of the additional weight shall be stated under ‘remarks’ in the Certificate of Conformity as to allow inclusion of this information in on-board vehicle registration papers.
  • 2.2.General requirements
  • 2.2.1.The sum of the technically permissible maximum mass on the solo axles plus the sum of the technically permissible maximum mass on the groups of axles shall not be less than the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle.

Image omitted; see official source

  • 2.2.2.The mass of the vehicle in running order, plus the mass of the optional equipment, the mass of the passengers, the masses ‘WP’ and ‘B’ referred to in point 2.2.3, plus the mass of the coupling if not included in the mass in running order, plus the technical permissible maximum mass at the coupling point shall not exceed the technically permissible maximum laden mass.
  • 2.2.3.Load distribution
  • 2.2.3.1.Notations
‘P’ number of seating positions, not including the driver and crew member(s);
‘Q’ mass of one passenger in kg;
‘Qc’ mass of one crew member in kg;
‘S1’ area in m2 for standing passengers;
‘SP’ number of standing passengers stated by the manufacturer;
‘Ssp’ rated space for one standing passenger in m2;
‘WP’ number of wheelchair spaces multiplied by 250 kg representing the mass of a wheelchair and user;
‘V’ total volume of baggage compartments in m3 including luggage compartments, racks and ski-box;
‘B’ maximum permissible mass of the luggage in kg stated by the manufacturer, including the maximum permissible mass (B’) that may be transported in the ski-box if any.
  • 2.2.3.2.The mass Q and Qc of the seated passengers shall be located at the seating reference points (i.e. the ‘R point’ of the seat).
  • 2.2.3.3.The mass corresponding to the number SP of standing passengers of mass Q shall be uniformly distributed over the surface available for standing passenger S1.
  • 2.2.3.4.Where appropriate, the mass WP shall be uniformly distributed over each wheelchair space.
  • 2.2.3.5.A mass equal to B (kg) shall be uniformly distributed in the luggage compartments.
  • 2.2.3.6.A mass equal to B’ (kg) shall be located at the centre of gravity of the ski-box.
  • 2.2.3.7.The technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point shall be located at the coupling point the rear overhang of which is stated by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • 2.2.3.8.Values of Q and Ssp values
Vehicle class Q (kg) Ssp (m2)
Class I and A 68 0,125 m2
Class II 71 0,15 m2
Class III and B 71 Not applicable
  • 2.3.The assumed mass of each crew member shall be 75 kg.
  • 2.3.1.The number of standing passengers shall not exceed the value S1/Ssp, where Ssp is the rated space provided for one standing passenger as specified in the table in point 2.2.3.8.
  • 2.3.1.1.The value of the maximum permissible mass of the luggage shall be not less than:
  • B = 100 × V
  • 2.3.2.Calculations
  • 2.3.2.1.The requirements of point 2.2.2. shall be verified in all interior arrangement configurations.
  • 2.3.2.2.In the conditions specified in point 2.2.3. the mass on each solo axle and on each group of axles shall not exceed the technically permissible maximum mass on that axle or group of axles.
  • 2.3.2.3.In the case of a vehicle equipped with a variable seating capacity, with an area available for standing passengers (S1) and equipped for the carriage of wheelchairs, compliance with the requirements of points 2.2.2. and 2.2.4.2. shall be verified for each of the following conditions as applicable:
  • (a) with all possible seats occupied followed by the remaining area for standing passengers (up to the standing capacity limit declared by the manufacturer, if reached) and, if space remains, any wheelchair spaces occupied;
  • (b) with all possible standing areas occupied (up to the standing capacity limit stated by the manufacturer) followed by the remaining seats available for seated passengers and, if space remains, any wheelchair spaces occupied;
  • (c) with all possible wheelchair spaces occupied followed by the remaining area for standing passengers (up to the standing capacity limit stated by the manufacturer, if reached) and then the remaining seats available for use occupied.
  • 2.3.3.Where the vehicle is laden as specified in point 2.2.2. the mass corresponding to the load on the front steering axle(s) shall in no case be less than 20 % of the technically permissible maximum laden mass ‘M’.
  • 2.3.3.1.In the case of an articulated vehicle with at least 4 axles of class I having two steered axles, the mass corresponding to the load on the front steering axle(s) shall in no case be less than 15 % of the technically permissible maximum laden mass ‘M’.
  • 2.3.4.Where a vehicle is to be type-approved to more than one class, the requirements of Section 2 shall apply to each class.
  • 3.Towing capacity
  • 3.1.The technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination shall not exceed the sum of the technically permissible maximum laden mass plus the technically permissible maximum towable mass.
  • MC ≤ M + TM
  • 3.2.The technically permissible maximum towable mass shall not exceed 3 500  kg.
  • 4.Technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point
  • 4.1.The technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point shall be at least equal to 4 % of its technically permissible maximum towable mass, or 25 kg, whichever is the greater.
  • 4.2.The manufacturer shall specify in the owner's manual the conditions for the attachment of the coupling to the motor vehicle.
  • 4.2.1.Where appropriate the conditions referred to in point 4.2. shall include the technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point of the towing vehicle, the maximum permissible mass of the coupling device, the mounting points of the coupling and the maximum permissible rear overhang of the coupling.
  • 5.Hill-starting ability
  • 5.1.Vehicles designed to tow a trailer shall be capable of starting five times within five minutes at an up-hill gradient of at least 12 %.
  • 5.2.For performing the test described in point 5.1., the towing vehicle and the trailer shall be laden so as to equal the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination.
  • 6.Engine power
  • 6.1.The engine shall provide a power output of at least 5 kW per tonne of the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination or of the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the solo vehicle where the vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer.
  • The requirements in this point shall not apply to the electric-only driving mode of hybrid electric vehicles.
  • 6.2.The engine power shall be measured in accordance with UN Regulation No 85 ([^E0031]).
  • 7.Manoeuvrability
  • 7.1.The vehicle shall be capable of manoeuvring on either side of a complete trajectory of 360° as shown in figure 1 in Section H without any of the vehicle's outermost points protruding beyond the outer circle or intruding inside the inner circle as the case may be.
  • 7.1.1.The test shall be conducted with the vehicle in both the unladen conditions (i.e. at its mass in running order) and loaded to its technically maximum permissible laden mass. If the vehicle is equipped with aerodynamic devices or equipment referred to in points 1.3.1.1. and 1.3.1.2., the devices and equipment shall be in the deployed and in-use position.
  • 7.1.2.For the purposes of point 7.1, the parts permitted to protrude beyond the vehicle width referred to in Section F shall not be taken into account.
  • 7.2.For vehicles fitted with a loadable axle, the requirement of point 7.1 shall also apply where the loadable axle(s) is in service.
  • 7.3.The requirements of point 7.1. shall be verified as follows:
  • 7.3.1.The vehicle shall manoeuvre inside a circular area defined by two concentric circles, the outer circle having a radius of 12,50 m and the inner circle having a radius of 5.30 m.
  • 7.3.2.The outermost front point of the motor vehicle shall be guided along the contour of the outer circle (see figure 1 in Section H).
  • 7.4.With the agreement of the Technical Service and the Type-Approval Authority, the manoeuvrability requirements may be proved by computer simulation in accordance with Annex VIII to Regulation (EU) 2018/858. In case of doubt, the Technical Service or Type-Approval Authority may require a physical full-scale test to be carried out.
  • 8.Rear swing-out
  • 8.1.Vehicle with one section
  • 8.1.1.The vehicle shall be tested in accordance with the drive-in test method described in point 8.1.2. If the vehicle is equipped with aerodynamic devices or equipment referred to in points 1.3.1.1. and 1.3.1.2., the devices and equipment shall be in the deployed and in-use position.
  • 8.1.2.Drive-in test method
  • The vehicle shall be stationary, a vertical plane tangential to the side of the vehicle and facing outwards from the circle shall be established by marking a line on the ground.
  • The vehicle shall be moved from a straight line approach into the circular area described Figure 1 with its front wheels turned such as the front outermost point follows the contour of the outer circle (see Figure 2a of Section H).
  • 8.1.3.The vehicle shall be set to its mass in running order.
  • 8.1.4.The maximum rear swing-out shall not exceed 0,60 m.
  • 8.2.Vehicles with two or more sections
  • 8.2.1.The requirements of point 8.1. shall apply mutatis mutandis as regards vehicles with two or more sections.
  • In such a case, the two or more rigid sections shall be aligned with the plane as shown in figure 2b of Section H.
  • 8.3.With the agreement of the Technical Service and the Type-Approval Authority, the maximum rear swing-out requirements may be proved by computer simulation in accordance with Annex VIII to Regulation (EU) 2018/858. In case of doubt, the Technical Service or Type-Approval Authority may require a physical full-scale test to be carried out.
Section D
Vehicles of category N2 and N3
  • 1.Maximum authorised dimensions
  • 1.1.The dimensions shall not exceed the following values:
  • 1.1.1. Length: 12,00 m.
  • 1.1.2. Width:
  • (a) 2,55 m for any vehicle;
  • (b) 2,60 m for vehicles fitted with a bodywork with insulated walls of at least 45 mm thick, having bodywork code 04 or 05, as referred to in Appendix 2 of Part C of Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2018/858.
  • 1.1.3. Height: 4,00 m
  • 1.2.For the purposes of measurement of the length, width and height, the vehicle shall be at its mass in running order, placed on a horizontal and flat surface with tyres inflated at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
  • 1.3.The devices and equipment referred to in Section F shall not be taken into account for the determination of the length, width and height.
  • 1.3.1.Additional requirements for aerodynamic devices referred to in Section F
  • 1.3.1.1.Aerodynamic devices and equipment not exceeding 500 mm in length in the in-use position shall not increase the usable length of the loading area. They shall be constructed in such a way as to make it possible to lock them in both the retracted or folded and the in-use positions. Such devices and equipment shall furthermore be constructed so as to be retractable or foldable when the vehicle is at stand-still in such a way that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 200 mm as permitted only from a height above the ground of at least 1 050  mm so that they do not impair the capability of the vehicle to be used for intermodal transport. In addition, the requirements set out in points 1.3.1.1.1. and 1.3.1.1.3. shall be met.
  • 1.3.1.1.1.The devices and equipment shall be type-approved in accordance with this Regulation.
  • 1.3.1.1.2.It shall be possible for the operator to vary the position of the aerodynamic devices and equipment, and to retract or fold it, by applying a manual force not exceeding 40 daN. In addition, this may be done automatically as well.
  • 1.3.1.1.3.It is not required for devices and equipment to be retractable or foldable if the maximum dimensional requirements are fully complied with under all conditions.
  • 1.3.1.2.Aerodynamic devices and equipment exceeding 500 mm in length in the in-use position shall not increase the usable length of the loading area. They shall be constructed in such a way as to make it possible to lock them in both the retracted or folded and in-use positions. Such devices and equipment shall furthermore be constructed so as to be retractable or foldable when the vehicle is at stand-still in such a way that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 200 mm as permitted only from a height above the ground of at least 1 050  mm so that they do not impair the capability of the vehicle to be used for intermodal transport. In addition, the requirements set out in points 1.3.1.2.1. to 1.3.1.2.4. below shall be met.
  • 1.3.1.2.1.The devices and equipment shall be type-approved in accordance with this Regulation.
  • 1.3.1.2.2.It shall be possible for the operator to vary the position of the aerodynamic devices and equipment, and retract or fold it, by applying a manual force not exceeding 40 daN. In addition, this may be done automatically as well.
  • 1.3.1.2.3.Each main vertical element or combination of elements and main horizontal element or combination of elements forming the devices and equipment shall, when installed on the vehicle and in the in-use position, withstand vertical and horizontal traction and push forces, applied sequentially in up, down, left and right direction, of 200 daN ± 10 % applied statically to the geometric centre of the relevant perpendicular projected surface, at a maximum pressure of 2,0 MPa. The devices and equipment may deform, but the system for adjustment and locking shall not release as a result of the applied forces. The deformation shall be limited to ensure that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle, during and after the test.
  • 1.3.1.2.4.Each main vertical element or combination of elements and main horizontal element or combination of elements forming the devices and equipment shall also, when in the retracted or folded position, withstand a horizontal traction force applied in longitudinal rearward direction, of 200 daN ± 10 % applied statically to the geometric centre of the relevant perpendicular projected surface, at a maximum pressure of 2,0 MPa. The devices and equipment may deform, but the system for adjustment and locking shall not release as a result of the applied forces. The deformation shall be limited to ensure that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and the maximum authorised length of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 200 mm.
  • 1.3.1.3.Aerodynamic devices and equipment of cabs, both in the retracted or folded and in-use position, where applicable, shall be constructed in such a way that the maximum authorised width of the vehicle is not exceeded by more than 25 mm on each side of the vehicle and that they do not impair the capability of the vehicle to be used for intermodal transport. In addition, the requirements set out in points 1.3.1.3.1. to 1.3.1.3.4. below shall be met.
  • 1.3.1.3.1.Aerodynamic devices and equipment for cabs shall be type-approved in accordance with this Regulation.
  • 1.3.1.3.2.When installed on a vehicle and both in the retracted or folded and in-use positions, where applicable, no part of the aerodynamic devices and equipment shall be above the lower windscreen edge, unless it is not directly visible to the driver due to the instrument panel or other standard interior fittings.
  • 1.3.1.3.3.The aerodynamic devices and equipment shall be covered with energy absorbing material. Alternatively, the devices and equipment shall consist of material having a hardness of < 60 Shore (A) in accordance with point 1.3.1.4.
  • 1.3.1.3.4.The aerodynamic devices and equipment shall not be constructed of material that is prone to breakage into sharp fragments or jagged edges.
  • 1.3.1.4.It shall be verified by the technical service, to the satisfaction of the type-approval authority that aerodynamic devices and equipment referred to in points 1.3.1.1., 1.3.1.2. and 1.3.1.3. positioned in both, the in-use and retracted or folded positions, do not impair the driver’s forward field of vision and the windscreen wash and wipe functions, as well as do not significantly impair the cooling and ventilation of the powertrain, exhaust system, braking system, occupant cabin and loading area. All other applicable requirements relating to the vehicle systems shall be fully complied with when the devices and equipment are placed in both their in-use and retracted or folded positions.
  • By way of derogation concerning the applicable requirements relating to front underrun protection, the horizontal distances between the foremost part of the vehicle as fitted with aerodynamic devices and equipment and its front underrun protective device as well as the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle as fitted with aerodynamic devices and equipment may be measured without taking the devices and equipment into account on condition that at the rear they exceed 200 mm in length, they are in the in-use condition and that at the front and rear the fundamental sections of the elements placed at a height ≤ 2,0 m above the ground measured in unladen condition are made of material having a hardness of < 60 Shore (A). Narrow ribs, tubing and metal wire forming a frame or substrate to support the fundamental sections of the elements shall not be taken into account when determining the hardness. However, in order to eliminate the risk of injuries and penetration of other vehicles in the event of a collision, any ends of such ribs, tubing and metal wire shall not be directed forward at the front and rearward at the rear of the vehicle, with the aerodynamic devices and equipment both in the retracted or folded and the in-use positions.
  • As alternative to the derogation concerning the rear underrun protection device referred to in the previous paragraph, the horizontal distances between the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle as fitted with aerodynamic devices and equipment may be measured without taking the aerodynamic devices and equipment into account provided that they exceed 200 mm in length, they are in the in-use condition and those devices or equipment comply with the test provisions set out in Section I.
  • The horizontal distances between the rear of the rear underrun protection device and the rear extremity of the vehicle shall however be measured with the aerodynamic devices and equipment positioned in the retracted or folded position or take into account the resulting projection length in accordance with point 1.6.1. of Section I, if this length exceeds that of the retracted or folded position.
  • 1.4.Elongated cabs
  • 1.4.1.Where the front fascia of the motor vehicle’s cab location, including all external projections of for example the chassis, bumper, wheel guards and wheels, fully conforms to parameters of the three-dimensional envelope as set out in Section J and the length of the loading area does not exceed 10,5 m, the vehicle may exceed the maximum authorised length set out in point 1.1.1.
  • 1.4.2.In the case referred to in point 1.4.1., the manufacturer shall indicate the following additional symbol below or to the side of the mandatory inscriptions on the manufacturer’s statutory plate, outside a clearly marked rectangle which shall enclose only the mandatory information.

‘96/53/EC ARTICLE 9A COMPLIANT’

  • The height of the symbol’s characters shall not be less than 4 mm. The text ‘96/53/EC ARTICLE 9A COMPLIANT’ shall also be added to the ‘remarks’ in the Certificate of Conformity as to allow inclusion of this information in on-board vehicle registration papers.
  • 2.Mass distribution for vehicles fitted with bodywork
  • 2.1.Calculation procedure
  • Notations:
‘M’ technically permissible maximum laden mass;
‘TM’ technically permissible maximum towable mass;
‘MC’ technically permissible maximum laden mass of the combination;
‘mi’ the technically permissible maximum mass on the solo axle designated ‘i’, where i varies from 1 to the total number of axles of the vehicle;
‘mc’ technically permissible maximum mass at the coupling point;
‘μj’ the technically permissible maximum mass on the group of axles designated ‘j’, where j varies from 1 to the total number of groups of axles.
  • 2.1.1.Suitable calculations shall be carried out in order to make sure that the requirements set out in points 2.2. and 2.3. are fulfilled for each technical configuration within the type.
  • 2.1.2.In the case of vehicles fitted with loadable axles, the calculations required under points 2.2. and 2.3. shall be carried out with the suspension of loadable axles in the normal running configuration.
  • 2.1.3.In the case of vehicles fitted with lift axles, the calculations required under points 2.2 and 2.3. shall be carried out with the axles lowered.
  • 2.1.4.In the case of alternatively fuelled or zero-emission motor vehicles:
  • 2.1.4.1.The additional weight required for alternative fuel or zero-emission technology in accordance with point 2.3 of Annex I to Directive 96/53/EC, and, for the purpose of Article 2(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) 2019/631, the mass of the energy storage system of zero-emission vehicles, shall be defined on the basis of the documentation provided by the manufacturer. The correctness of the declared information shall be verified by the Technical Service, to the satisfaction of the Type-Approval Authority.
  • 2.1.4.2.The manufacturer shall indicate the following additional symbol as well as the value of the additional weight, in case of alternatively fuelled motor vehicles, or the mass of the energy storage system, in case of zero-emission motor vehicles, below or to the side of the mandatory inscriptions on the manufacturer’s statutory plate, outside a clearly marked rectangle which shall enclose only the mandatory information.

‘96/53/EC ARTICLE 10B COMPLIANT – XXXX KG’

‘(EU) 2019/631 ARTICLE 2(1)(b) COMPLIANT – XXXX KG’

  • The height of the symbol’s characters and stated value shall not be less than 4 mm.
  • In addition, until the introduction of a dedicated entry in the Certificate of Conformity, the value of the additional weight or the mass of the energy storage system shall be stated under ‘remarks’ in the Certificate of Conformity, as to allow inclusion of this information in on-board vehicle registration papers, as follows:

‘Additional mass due to batteries: …… kg’  ([^E0032])

  • 2.2.General requirements
  • 2.2.1.The sum of the technically permissible maximum mass on the solo axles plus the sum of the technically permissible maximum mass on the groups of axles shall not be less than the technically permissible maximum laden mass of the vehicle.

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