HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"L 185/30
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) No 678/2011
of 14 July 2011
replacing Annex II and amending Annexes IV, IX and XI to Directive 2007/46/EC of the European
Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the approval of motor vehicles and
their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles
(Framework Directive)
(Text with EEA relevance)
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
(4) In
accordance
with
the
principles
enshrined
in
the
communications from the Commission entitled
Action plan ‘Simplifying and improving the regulatory
environment’ (
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European

2 ) and Action programme for ‘Reducing
administrative burdens in the European Union’ (
Union,

3 ), it is
appropriate to reconsider the criteria to be used for the
definition of the variants and versions within a vehicle
type with a view to reducing the administrative burden
Having regard to Directive 2007/46/EC of the European
placed on vehicle manufacturers. This would result,
Parliament and of the Council of 5 September 2007 estab
moreover, in making the type-approval process more
lishing a framework for the approval of motor vehicles and
transparent for the competent authorities of the
their trailers, and of systems, components and separate
Member States.
technical units intended for such vehicles (Framework
Directive) ( 1 ), and in particular Article 39(2) and (3) thereof,
(5)
Given the trends for globalisation on the automotive
sector, the work of the World Forum for Harmonisation
Whereas:
of Vehicle Regulations – ‘the Working Party 29 (WP.29)’
- is increasingly significant. As it is essential in order to
meet the recommendations of the CARS 21 High Level
Group to incorporate Regulations of the Economic
(1) Directive
2007/46/EC
establishes
a
harmonised
frame-
Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UNECE)
work containing the administrative provisions and
into EU law or even to replace EU Directives or Regu
general technical requirements for all new vehicles,
lations by UNECE Regulations as well as to incorporate
systems, components and separate technical units. In
global technical Regulations into EU law, the consistency
particular it includes the specific definitions concerning
of the legislation of the European Union with the UNECE
vehicles that are necessary for the proper functioning of
Regulations should be ensured.
the European type-approval system.


(2)
One of the objectives of Directive 2007/46/EC is to
(6)
Given the harmonisation work in progress in the World
extend the European vehicle type-approval system to all
Forum for Harmonisation of Vehicle Regulations, it is
vehicle categories. Annex II to Directive 2007/46/EC that
essential to take account of the most recent devel
includes the necessary specific definitions has to be re
opments laid down in Resolution R.E. 3 on Classification
designed in order to take technical progress into account.
and definition of power-driven vehicles and trailers in the
It is therefore necessary to amend existing definitions or
framework of the Agreement of the UNECE concerning
to establish new definitions.
the adoption of uniform prescriptions for wheeled
vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted to
and/or used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for
reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis
(3) Experience
shows
that
the
current
criteria
for
deter
of these prescriptions (Revised 1958 Agreement) as well
mining whether a new model of vehicle is to be
as the Special Resolution S.R. 1 concerning the common
considered a new type are too vague. This lack of
definitions of vehicle categories, masses and dimensions
certainty can delay the implementation of new
in the framework of the UNECE Agreement concerning
requirements laid down in EU legislation regarding new
the establishing of global technical regulations for
vehicle types. Moreover, experience shows that it is
wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be
possible to circumvent the EU small series legislation
fitted and/or be used on wheeled vehicles (‘Parallel or
by dividing a vehicle type into several sub-types under
1998 Agreement’). Only the inclusion of those devel
different type-approvals. Consequently, the number of
opments in the Framework Directive can ensure the
new vehicles that may be put into service in the
proper functioning of the European type-approval
European Union under the small series regime can
system. It is therefore necessary to introduce new
exceed what is permissible. It is therefore important to
criteria for determining whether a vehicle type should
specify which vehicle technical features are to be used as
be categorised in an ‘M’ category or an ‘N’ category.
criteria in determining what constitutes a new type.
( 2 ) COM(2002) 278 final.
( 1 ) OJ L 263, 9.10.2007, p. 1.
( 3 ) COM(2007) 23 final.

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EN
15.7.2011 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/31
(7) In
accordance
with
Article
8
of
Regulation
(EC)
No (11) An error occurred in the adoption of Commission
443/2009 of the European Parliament and of the
Directive 2010/19/EU of 9 March 2010 amending, for
Council of 23 April 2009 setting emission performance
the purposes of adaptation to technical progress in the
for new passenger cars as part of the Community’s inte
field of spray-suppression systems of certain categories of
grated approach to reduce CO 2 emissions from light-duty
motor vehicles and their trailers, Council Directive
vehicles ( 1 ), Member States are required to keep a register
91/226/EEC, and Directive 2007/46/EC of the
containing data relating to inter alia the type, variant and
European Parliament and of the Council ( 2 ) in so far as
version of each particular vehicle with regard to its
Annexes IV and XI to Directive 2007/46/EC were also
specific emissions of CO 2 for each new vehicles
amended by that Directive. Those annexes had previously
registered in its territory. It is essential to specify the
been replaced by Commission Regulation (EC) No
criteria in accordance with which a light-duty vehicle
1060/2008 of 7 October 2008 replacing Annexes I,
has to be type-approved as M 1 or as N 1 vehicle. These
III, IV, VI, VII, XI, and XV to Directive 2007/46/EC of
criteria should be objective and constitute guidance for
the European Parliament and of the Council establishing
vehicle manufacturers as well as for type-approval and
a framework for the approval of motor vehicles and their
registration authorities. In accordance with Article 13 (4)
trailers, and of systems, components and separate
of Regulation (EC) No 443/2009, the presence of in
technical units intended for such vehicles (Framework
novative technologies fostering further CO 2 emission
Directive) ( 3 ). In the interest of legal certainty, any
reduction must be identified. This should be achieved
partial amendment to those annexes should henceforth
by means of a ‘code’ assigned to the vehicle by the
only be introduced by a Regulation. As the corre
manufacturer so that each type/variant/version
sponding Article 2 of Directive 2010/19/EU has been
corresponds to a unique set of innovative technologies.
deleted by Commission Decision 2011/415/EU of
Identification of those innovative technologies should
14 July 2011 correcting Directive 2010/19/EU
thus be possible from the definition of the type-variant-
amending, for the purposes of adaptation to technical
version. It is therefore appropriate to add the
progress in the field of spray-suppression systems of
corresponding entry into Annex II to Directive
certain categories of motor vehicles and their trailers,
2007/46/EC.
Council Directive 91/226/EEC, and Directive 2007/46/EC
of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards
the amendment of the annexes to Directive
2007/46/EC ( 4 ) in order to remedy that error, it is appro
(8) As
the
type
of
bodywork
has
to
be
specified
in
the
priate to effectuate the amendments previously contained
certificate of conformity, which is intended to facilitate
in that Article by way of this Regulation.
the registration of new vehicles in the Member States, the
use of harmonised codes for each kind of bodywork
should constitute a simplification in the registration
process. A list of appropriate codes should be assigned
to the kinds of bodywork in order to allow the data
(12) It is appropriate with a view to ensuring the proper
processing to be automated.
operation of the type-approval system to update the
annexes to Directive 2007/46/EC in order to adapt
them to the development of scientific and technical
knowledge.
(9) As
trailers
designed
especially
for
abnormal
load
transport cannot meet all the provisions of the regulatory
acts listed in Annex IV to Directive 2007/46/EC that are
required to be complied with for the purpose of
European type-approval, it is appropriate to include
(13) It is also appropriate to update the annexes to Directive
those trailers in the category of special purposes
2007/46/EC in order to lay down technical requirements
vehicles given their technical features. For the purposes
for special purpose vehicles to be type-approved.
of type-approval a simplified set of rules should be laid
down in order to make their type-approval at European
level possible. Consequently it is necessary to add a new
Appendix to Annex XI to Directive 2007/46/EC.
(14) Since
the
provisions
of
those
annexes
are
sufficiently
detailed and need no further transposition measures by
Member States, it is therefore appropriate to replace
Annex II and amend Annexes IV, IX and XI by means
(10) New
technical
developments
are
currently
in
progress
in
of a Regulation in accordance with Article 39 (8) of
order to cope with the demand for new solutions in the
Directive 2007/46/EC.
transport of goods. It is therefore necessary to include
new definitions in the framework legislation in order to
permit subsequently appropriate technical rules to be laid
down in the relevant regulatory acts listed in Annex IV
or XI to Directive 2007/46/EC. It is important to make
(15) Annex II should be replaced and Annexes IV, IX and XI
clear that no EC type-approval should be granted for
should be amended accordingly.
such vehicles until the type-approval legislation is
amended for such purposes.
( 2 ) OJ L 72, 20.3.2010, p. 17.
( 3 ) OJ L 292, 31.10.2008, p. 1.
( 1 ) OJ L 140, 5.6.2009 p. 1.
( 4 ) See page 76 of this Official Journal.

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Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
(16) The
measures
provided
for
in
this
Regulation
are
in
Article 2
accordance with the opinion of the Technical
Committee – Motor Vehicles,
This Regulation shall not invalidate any vehicle type-approval
granted before 29 October 2012 nor prevent extension of such
approvals.
HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:
Article 1
Article 3
Directive 2007/46/EC shall be amended as follows:
1. This
Regulation
shall
enter
into
force
on
the
20th
day
following its publication in the Official Journal of the European
Union.
(1) Annex II is replaced by the text set out in Annex I to this
Regulation;
It shall apply to new vehicle types for which approval will be
(2) Annex IV is amended as set out in Annex II to this
granted on and after 29 October 2012.
Regulation;
However, the requirements set out in Annex II and in points 1
(3) Annex IX is amended as set out in Annex III to this
and 2 of Annex IV shall apply from 9 April 2011.
Regulation;
2. By way of derogation from paragraph
1 second
(4) Annex XI is amended as set out in Annex IV to this
subparagraph manufacturers may as from 4 August 2011
Regulation.
apply any provision of this Regulation.
This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
Done at Brussels, 14 July 2011.
For the Commission
The President
José Manuel BARROSO

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15.7.2011 Official
Journal
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the
European
Union L
185/33
ANNEX I
‘ANNEX II
GENERAL DEFINITIONS, CRITERIA FOR VEHICLE CATEGORISATION, VEHICLE TYPES AND TYPES OF
BODYWORK
INTRODUCTORY PART
General definitions and general provisions
1. Definitions
1.1. “Seating position” means any location capable of accommodating one person seated who is at least as large as:
(a) the manikin of the 50th percentile male in the case of the driver;
(b) the manikin of the 5th percentile adult female in all other cases.
1.2. “Seat” means a complete structure with trim, integral or not with the vehicle body structure, which is intended to
seat one person.
1.2.1. The
term
“seat”
covers
both
an
individual
seat
and
a
bench
seat.
1.2.2. Folding seats and removable seats are included in this definition.
1.3. “Goods” means primarily any movable things.
The term “goods” includes products in bulk, manufactured goods, liquids, living animals, crops, indivisible loads.
1.4. “Maximum mass” means the “technically permissible maximum laden mass” as specified in point 2.8 of Annex I.
2. General
provisions
2.1. Number
of
seating
positions
2.1.1. The requirements regarding the number of seating positions apply to seats that are designed for use when the
vehicle is travelling on the road.
2.1.2. They
do
not
apply
to
seats
that
are
designed
for
use
when
the
vehicle
is
stationary
and
which
are
clearly
identified to users either by means of a pictogram or a sign with an appropriate text.
2.1.3. The following requirements apply for the counting of the seating positions:
(a) each individual seat shall be counted as one seating position;
(b) in the case of a bench seat, any space having a width of at least 400 mm measured at the seat cushion level
shall be counted as one seating position.
This condition shall not prevent the manufacturer from using the general provisions referred to in point 1.1;
(c) however, a space as referred to in point (b) shall not be counted as one seating position where:
(i) the bench seat includes features that prevent the bottom of the manikin from sitting in a natural way -
for example: the presence of a fixed console box, an unpadded area or an interior trim interrupting the
nominal seating surface;
(ii) the design of the floor pan located immediately in front of a presumed seating position (for example the
presence of a tunnel) prevents the feet of the manikin from being positioned in a natural way.
2.1.4. With respect to vehicles covered by Directive 2001/85/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of
20 November 2001 relating to special provisions for vehicles used for the carriage of passengers comprising
more than eight seats in addition to the driver’s seat, and amending Directives 70/156/EEC and 97/27/EC ( 1 ), the
dimension referred to in point 2.1.3(b) shall be aligned with the minimum space required for one person in
relation to the various classes of vehicles.
( 1 ) OJ L 42, 13.2.2002, p. 1.

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Official Journal of the European Union
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2.1.5. When seat anchors for a removable seat are present in a vehicle, the removable seat shall be counted in the
determination of the number of the seating positions.
2.1.6. An
area
intended
for
an
occupied
wheelchair
shall
be
regarded
as
one
seating
position.
2.1.6.1. This provision shall be without prejudice to the requirements of point 3.6.1 and point 3.7 of Annex VII to
Directive 2001/85/EC.
2.2. Maximum
mass
2.2.1. In the case of a tractor unit for semi-trailer, the maximum mass to be considered for classifying the vehicle shall
include the maximum mass of the semi-trailer borne by the fifth wheel coupling.
2.2.2. In the case of a motor vehicle that can tow a centre-axle trailer or a rigid drawbar trailer, the maximum mass to
be considered for classifying the motor vehicle shall include the maximum mass transferred to the towing vehicle
by the coupling.
2.2.3. In the case of a semi-trailer, a centre-axle trailer and a rigid drawbar trailer, the maximum mass to be considered
for classifying the vehicle shall correspond to the maximum mass transmitted to the ground by the wheels of an
axle or group of axles when coupled to the towing vehicle.
2.2.4. In the case of a converter dolly, the maximum mass to be considered for classifying the vehicle shall include the
maximum mass of the semi-trailer borne by the fifth wheel coupling.
2.3. Special
equipment
2.3.1. Vehicles fitted primarily with fixed equipment such as machinery or apparatus shall be regarded as N or O
category.
2.4. Units
2.4.1. Unless
otherwise
stated
any
unit
of
measurement
and
associated
symbol
shall
conform
to
the
provisions
of
Council Directive 80/181/EEC ( 1 ).
3. Categorisation
into
vehicle
categories
3.1.
The manufacturer is responsible for the categorisation of a type of vehicle into a specific category.
For such purposes, all the relevant criteria described in this Annex shall be met.
3.2.
The approval authority may request from the manufacturer appropriate additional information with the aim of
demonstrating that a vehicle type needs to be categorised as special purpose vehicle in the special group
(“SG Code”).
PART A
Criteria for vehicle categorisation
1. Vehicle
categories
For the purposes of European and national type-approval, as well as individual approval, vehicles shall be
categorised according to the following classification:
(It is understood that approval can only be granted for the categories referred to in points 1.1.1 to 1.1.3, 1.2.1
to 1.2.3 and 1.3.1 to 1.3.4.)
1.1. Category
M
Motor
vehicles
designed
and
constructed
primarily
for
the
carriage
of
persons
and
their
luggage.
1.1.1. Category
M 1 Vehicles of category M, comprising not more than eight seating positions in addition to the
driver’s seating position.
Vehicles belonging to category M 1 shall have no space for standing passengers.
The number of seating positions may be restricted to one (i.e. the driver’s seating position).
( 1 ) OJ L 39, 15.2.1980 p. 40.

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1.1.2. Category
M 2 Vehicles of category M, comprising more than eight seating positions in addition to the driver’s
seating position and having a maximum mass not exceeding 5 tonnes.
Vehicles belonging to category M 2 may have space for standing passengers in addition to the
seating positions.
1.1.3. Category
M 3 Vehicles of category M, comprising more than eight seating positions in addition to the driver’s
seating position and having a maximum mass exceeding 5 tonnes.
Vehicles belonging to category M 3 may have space for standing passengers.
1.2. Category
N
Motor
vehicles
designed
and
constructed
primarily
for
the
carriage
of
goods.
1.2.1. Category
N 1 Vehicles of category N having a maximum mass not exceeding 3,5 tonnes.
1.2.2. Category
N 2 Vehicles of category N having a maximum mass exceeding 3,5 tonnes but not exceeding
12 tonnes.
1.2.3. Category
N 3 Vehicles of category N having a maximum mass exceeding 12 tonnes.
1.3.
Category O Trailers designed and constructed for the carriage of goods or of persons as well as for the
accommodation of persons.
1.3.1. Category
O 1 Vehicles of category O having a maximum mass not exceeding 0,75 tonnes
1.3.2. Category
O 2 Vehicles of category O having a maximum mass exceeding 0,75 tonnes but not exceeding 3,5
tonnes.
1.3.3. Category
O 3 Vehicles of category O having a maximum mass exceeding 3,5 tonnes but not exceeding
10 tonnes.
1.3.4 Category
O 4 Vehicles of category O having a maximum mass exceeding 10 tonnes.
2. Vehicle
subcategories
2.1. Off-road
vehicles
“Off-road vehicle (ORV)” means a vehicle that belongs either to category M or N, having specific technical
features which permit its use off the normal roads.
For those categories of vehicles, the letter “G” shall be added as suffix to the letter and numeral identifying the
vehicle category.
The criteria for the subcategorisation of vehicles as “ORV” shall be specified in Section 4 of Part A of this
Annex.
2.2. Special
purpose
vehicles
2.2.1. “Special purpose vehicle (SPV)” means a vehicle of category M, N or O having specific technical features in order
to perform a function which requires special arrangements and/or equipment.
For incomplete vehicles that are intended to fall into the SPV subcategory, the letter “S” shall be added as suffix
to the letter and numeral identifying the vehicle category.
The various types of special purpose vehicles are defined and listed in Section 5.
2.3. Off
road
special
purpose
vehicle
2.3.1. “Off road special purpose vehicle (ORV-SPV)” means a vehicle that belongs either to category M or N having the
specific technical features referred to in points 2.1 and 2.2.
For those categories of vehicles, the letter “G” shall be added as suffix to the letter and numeral identifying the
vehicle category.
Moreover, for incomplete vehicles that are intended to fall into the SPV subcategory, the letter “S” shall be
added as second suffix.

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3. Criteria
for
the
categorisation
of
vehicles
in
category
N
3.1.
The categorisation of a vehicle type in category N shall be based on the technical features of the vehicle as
referred to in points 3.2 to 3.6.
3.2.
As a matter of principle, the compartment(s) where all the seating positions are located shall be completely
separated from the loading area.
3.3.
By way of derogation from the requirements of point 3.2, persons and goods may be transported in the same
compartment under the condition that the loading area is provided with securing devices designed to protect
persons transported against the displacement of the load during driving, including severe braking and
cornering.
3.4.
Securing devices - lashing devices - intended for securing the load as required in point 3.3 as well as
partitioning systems, intended for vehicles up to 7,5 tonnes shall be designed in accordance with the provisions
of Sections 3 and 4 of Standard ISO 27956:2009 “Road vehicles – Securing of cargo in delivery vans –
Requirements and test methods”.
3.4.1.
The requirements referred to in point 3.4 may be verified by a statement of compliance provided by the
manufacturer.
3.4.2.
As an alternative to the requirements of point 3.4, the manufacturer may demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
approval authority that the securing devices fitted show an equivalent level of protection as provided in the
referred standard.
3.5. The
number
of
seating
positions
excluding
the
driver’s
seating
position
shall
not
exceed:
(a) 6 in the case of N 1 vehicles;
(b) 8 in the case of N 2 or N 3 vehicles.
3.6. Vehicles
shall
show
a
goods-carrying
capacity
equal
or
higher
than
the
person-carrying
capacity
expressed
in kg.
3.6.1.
For such purposes, the following equations shall be satisfied in all configurations, in particular when all seating
positions are occupied:
(a) when N = 0:
P – M ≥ 100 kg
(b) when 0 < N ≤ 2:
P – (M + N × 68) ≥ 150 kg;
(c) when N > 2:
P – (M + N × 68) ≥ N × 68;
where the letters have the following meaning:
“P” is the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
“M” is the mass in running order;
“N” is the number of seating positions excluding the driver’s seating position.
3.6.2. The
mass
of
equipment
that
is
fitted
to
the
vehicle
in
order
to
accommodate
goods
(e.g.
tank,
bodywork,
etc.),
to handle goods (e.g. crane, lift, etc.) and to secure goods (e.g. cargo securing devices) shall be included in M.
The mass of equipment that is not used for the purposes referred to above (such as a compressor, a winch, an
electric power generator, broadcasting equipment, etc.) shall not be included in M for the purposes of the
application of the above formulae.
3.7.
The requirements referred to in points 3.2 to 3.6 shall be met for all variants and versions within the vehicle
type.
3.8. Criteria
for
the
categorisation
of
vehicles
as
N 1 .

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3.8.1. A
vehicle
shall
be
categorised
as
N 1 when all the applicable criteria are met.
When one or more of the criteria are not met, the vehicle shall be categorised as M 1 .
3.8.2.
In addition to the general criteria referred to in points 3.2 to 3.6, the criteria specified in points 3.8.2.1 to
3.8.2.3.5 shall be met for the categorisation of vehicles for which the compartment where the driver is located
and the load are within a single unit (i.e. bodywork “BB”).
3.8.2.1. The fact that a wall or a partition, complete or partial, is fitted between a seat row and the cargo area shall not
rule out the obligation to meet the required criteria.
3.8.2.2. The
criteria
shall
be
as
follows:
(a) the loading of the goods shall be possible by a rear door, a tailgate or a side-door designed and constructed
for that purposes;
(b) in the case of a rear door or a tailgate, the loading aperture shall meet the following requirements:
(i) in the case the vehicle is fitted with only one row of seats or with only the driver seat, the minimum
height of the loading aperture shall be at least 600 mm;
(ii) in the case the vehicle is fitted with two or more rows of seats, the minimum height of the loading
aperture shall be at least 800 mm and the aperture shall show a surface of at least 12 800 cm 2 ;
(c) The cargo area shall meet the following requirements:
“cargo area” means the part of the vehicle located behind the row(s) of seats or behind the driver seat when
the vehicle is fitted with only one driver seat;
(i) the loading surface of the cargo area shall be generally flat;
(ii) where the vehicle is fitted with only one row of seats or with one seat, the minimum length of the
cargo area shall be at least 40 % of the wheelbase;
(iii) where the vehicle is fitted with two or more rows of seats, the minimum length of the cargo area shall
be at least 30 % of the wheelbase.
Where the seats of the last row of seats can be easily removed from the vehicle without the use of
special tools, the requirements regarding the length of the cargo area shall be met with all the seats
installed in the vehicle;
(iv) the requirements regarding the length of the cargo area shall be met when the seats of the first row or
of the last row, as the case may be, are upright in their normal position for use by the vehicle
occupants.
3.8.2.3. Specific
conditions
for
measurement
3.8.2.3.1. Definitions
(a) “Height of the loading aperture”, means the vertical distance between two horizontal planes tangent
respectively to the highest point of the lower part of the doorway and the lowest point of the upper
part of the doorway;
(b) “surface of the loading aperture” means the greatest surface of the orthogonal projection on a vertical plane,
perpendicular to the centreline of the vehicle, of the maximum aperture permitted when the rear door(s) or
tailgate is (are) wide open;
(c) “wheelbase”, for the purposes of application of the formulae in points 3.8.2.2 and 3.8.3.1, means the
distance between:
(i) the centreline of the front axle and the centreline of the second axle in the case of a two axle vehicle;
or
(ii) the centreline of the front axle and the centreline of a virtual axle equally distant from the second and
third axle in the case of a three axle vehicle.

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3.8.2.3.2. Seat adjustments
(a) the seats shall be adjusted at their rear outermost positions;
(b) the seat back, if adjustable, shall be adjusted as to accommodate the three-dimensional H-point machine at
a torso angle of 25 degrees;
(c) the seat back, if not adjustable, shall be in the position designed by the vehicle manufacturer;
(d) When the seat is adjustable in height, it shall be adjusted to its lowest position.
3.8.2.3.3. Vehicle conditions
(a) the vehicle shall be in loaded conditions corresponding to its maximum mass;
(b) the vehicle shall be with its wheels straight ahead.
3.8.2.3.4. The requirements of point 3.8.2.3.2 shall not apply when the vehicle is fitted with a wall or a partition.
3.8.2.3.5. Measurement of the length of the cargo area
(a) When the vehicle is not fitted with a partition or a wall, the length shall be measured from a vertical plane
tangent to the rear outermost point of the top of the seat back to the rear internal pane or door or
tailgate, in closed position;
(b) when the vehicle is fitted with a partition or a wall, the length shall be measured from a vertical plane
tangent to the rear outermost point of the partition or the wall to the rear internal pane or door or
tailgate, as the case may be, in closed position;
(c) the requirements concerning the length shall be fulfilled at least along an horizontal line situated in the
longitudinal vertical plane passing through the centreline of the vehicle, at the level of the load floor.
3.8.3.
In addition to the general criteria referred to in points 3.2 to 3.6, the criteria specified in points 3.8.3.1 to
3.8.3.4 shall be met for the categorisation of vehicles for which the compartment where the driver is located
and the load are not within a single unit (i.e. bodywork “BE”).
3.8.3.1. Where the vehicle is fitted with an enclosure type body, the following shall apply:
(a) the loading of the goods shall be possible by a rear door, a tailgate or a panel or other means;
(b) the minimum height of the loading aperture shall be at least 800 mm and the aperture shall show a surface
of at least 12 800 cm 2 ;
(c) The minimum length of the cargo area shall be at least 40 % of the wheelbase.
3.8.3.2. Where the vehicle is fitted with an open type cargo area, only the provisions referred to in points 3.8.3.1(a)
and (c) shall apply.
3.8.3.3. For the application of the provisions referred to in point 3.8.3, the definitions in point 3.8.2 shall apply mutatis
mutandis.
3.8.3.4. However, the requirements concerning the length of the cargo area shall be fulfilled along a horizontal line
situated in the longitudinal plane passing through the centreline of the vehicle at the level of the load floor.
4. Criteria
for
the
subcategorisation
of
vehicles
as
off-road
vehicles
4.1. M 1 or N 1 vehicles shall be subcategorised as off-road vehicles if they satisfy at the same time the following
conditions:
(a) at least one front and at least one rear axle designed to be driven simultaneously irrespective of whether
one powered axle can be disengaged;
(b) at least one differential locking mechanism or a mechanism having similar effect is fitted;
(c) they are able to climb at least a 25 % gradient as solo vehicle;
(d) they satisfy five out of the following six requirements:
(i) the approach angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(ii) the departure angle shall be at least 20 degrees;

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(iii) the ramp angle shall be at least 20 degrees;
(iv) the ground clearance under the front axle shall be at least 180 mm;
(v) the ground clearance under the rear axle shall be at least 180 mm;
(vi) the ground clearance between the axles shall be at least 200 mm.
4.2. M 2 , N 2 or M 3 vehicles whose maximum mass does not exceed 12 tonnes shall be subcategorised as off-road
vehicles if they satisfy the condition set out in point (a) or both conditions set out in points (b) and (c):
(a) all their axles are driven simultaneously, irrespective of whether one or more powered axles can be
disengaged;
(b) (i) at least one front and at least one rear axle are designed to be driven simultaneously irrespective of
whether one powered axle can be disengaged;
(ii) at least one differential locking mechanism or a mechanism having the same effect is fitted;
(iii) they are able to climb a 25 % gradient as a solo vehicle;
(c) they satisfy at least five out of the following six requirements if their maximum mass does not exceed 7,5
tonnes and at least four if their maximum mass exceeds 7,5 tonnes:
(i) the approach angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(ii) the departure angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(iii) the ramp angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(iv) the ground clearance under the front axle shall be at least 250 mm;
(v) the ground clearance between axles shall be at least 300 mm;
(vi) the ground clearance under the rear axle shall be at least 250 mm.
4.3. M 3 or N 3 vehicles whose maximum mass exceeds 12 tonnes shall be subcategorised as off-road vehicles if they
satisfy the condition set out in point (a) or both conditions set out in points (b) and (c):
(a) all their axles are driven simultaneously, irrespective of whether one or more powered axles can be
disengaged;
(b) (i) at least half of the axles (or two axles out of the three in the case of a three axle vehicle and mutatis
mutandis in the case of a five axle vehicle) is designed to be driven simultaneously, irrespective of
whether one powered axle can be disengaged;
(ii) there is at least one differential locking mechanism or a mechanism having similar effect;
(iii) they are able to climb a 25 % gradient as solo vehicle;
(c) they satisfy at least four out of the following six requirements:
(i) the approach angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(ii) the departure angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(iii) the ramp angle shall be at least 25 degrees;
(iv) the ground clearance under the front axle shall be at least 250 mm;
(v) the ground clearance between axles shall be at least 300 mm;
(vi) the ground clearance under the rear axle shall be at least 250 mm.
4.4. The
procedure
for
checking
compliance
with
the
geometrical
provisions
referred
to
in
this
section
shall
be
set
out in Appendix 1.

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5. Special
purpose
vehicles
Name Code Definition
5.1.
Motor caravan SA A
vehicle
of
category
M
with
living
accommodation
space
which
contains
the following equipment as a minimum:
(a) seats and table;
(b) sleeping accommodation which may be converted from the seats;
(c) cooking facilities;
(d) storage facilities.
This equipment shall be rigidly fixed to the living compartment.
However, the table may be designed to be easily removable.
5.2. Armoured
SB
a vehicle intended for the protection of conveyed persons or goods with
vehicle
anti-bullet armour plating.
5.3. Ambulance SC a
vehicle
of
category
M
intended
for
the
transport
of
sick
or
injured
persons
and having special equipment for such purpose.
The patient compartment shall comply with the technical requirements of
Standard EN 1789:2007 on “Medical vehicles and their equipment – Road
ambulances” with the exception of Section 6.5 “List of equipment”.
5.4. Hearse SD
a vehicle of category M intended for the transport of deceased persons and
having special equipment for such purpose.
5.5. Wheelchair
SH a
vehicle
of
category
M 1 constructed or converted specifically so that they
accessible
accommodate one or more persons seated in their wheelchairs when
vehicle
travelling on the road.
5.6. Trailer
caravan SE
a vehicle of category O as defined in term 3.2.1.3 of Standard
ISO 3833:1977.
5.7. Mobile
crane SF a
vehicle
of
category
N 3 , not fitted for the carriage of goods, provided with
a crane whose lifting moment is equal to or higher than 400 kNm.
5.8. Special
group SG
a special purpose vehicle which does not enter in any of the definitions
mentioned in this section.
5.9. Converter
SJ a
vehicle
of
category
O
equipped
with
a
fifth-wheel
coupling
to
support
a
dolly
semi-trailer with a view to converting the latter into a trailer.
5.10. Exceptional
SK a
vehicle
of
category
O 4 intended for the transport of indivisible loads that
load transport
is subject to speed and traffic restrictions because of its dimensions.
trailer
Under this term are also included hydraulic modular trailers irrespective of
the number of modules.
6. Remarks
6.1. Type-approval
shall
not
be
granted:
(a) to converter dolly as defined in Section 5 of Part A of this Annex;
(b) to rigid drawbar trailers as defined in Section 4 of Part C of this Annex;
(c) to trailers in which persons may be carried when travelling on the road.
6.2. Paragraph
6.1
is
without
prejudice
to
the
provisions
of
Article
23
on
national
small
series
type-approval.
PART B
Criteria for vehicle types, variants and versions
1. Category
M 1
1.1. Vehicle
type
1.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following features in common:

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(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;
(b) the design and assembly of the essential parts of the body structure in the case of a self-supporting body.
The same shall apply mutatis mutandis to vehicles the bodywork of which is bolted on or welded to a separate
frame;
(c) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
1.1.2. By way of derogation from the requirements of point 1.1.1(b), when the manufacturer uses the floor portion of the
body structure as well as the essential constituent elements forming the front part of the body structure located
directly in front of the windscreen bay, in the construction of different kinds of bodywork (for example a saloon
and a coupe), those vehicles may be considered as belonging to the same type. Evidence thereof shall be provided
by the manufacturer.
1.1.3. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.
1.2. Variant
1.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction features in
common:
(a) the number of lateral doors or the type of bodywork as defined in Section 1 of Part C when the manufacturer
uses the criterion of point 1.1.2;
(b) the power plant with regard to the following construction features:
(i) the type of energy supply (internal combustion engine, electric motor or other);
(ii) the working principle (positive ignition, compression ignition or other);
(iii) the number and arrangement of cylinders in the case of internal combustion engine (L4, V6 or other);
(c) the number of axles;
(d) the number, and interconnection of powered axles;
(e) the number of steered axles;
(f) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete).
1.3. Version
1.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the engine capacity in the case of internal combustion engine;
(c) the maximum engine power output or the maximum continuous rated power (electric motor);
(d) the nature of the fuel (petrol, gas oil, LPG, bi-fuel or other);
(e) the maximum number of seating positions;
(f) drive-by sound level;
(g) exhaust emission level (for example Euro 5, Euro 6 or other);
(h) combined or weighted, combined CO 2 emissions;
(i) electric energy consumption (weighted, combined);
(j) combined or weighted, combined fuel consumption;
(k) the existence of a unique set of innovative technologies, as specified in Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No
443/2009 ( 1 ).
( 1 ) OJ L 140, 5.6.2009, p. 1.

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2. Categories
M 2 and M 3
2.1. Vehicle
type
2.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following features in common:
(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;
(b) the category;
(c) the following aspects of construction and design:
(i) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the chassis;
(ii) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the body structure in the case of
a self-supporting body;
(d) the number of decks (single or double);
(e) the number of sections (rigid/articulated);
(f) the number of axles;
(g) the mode of energy supply (on-board or off-board);
(h) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
2.1.2. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.
2.2. Variant
2.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction features in
common:
(a) the type of bodywork as defined in Section 2 of Part C;
(b) the class or combination of classes of vehicles as defined in point 2.1.1 of Annex I to Directive 2001/85/EC
(only in the case of complete and completed vehicles);
(c) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete/completed);
(d) the power plant with regard to the following construction features:
(i) the type of energy supply (internal combustion engine, electric motor or other);
(ii) the working principle (positive ignition, compression ignition or other);
(iii) the number and arrangement of cylinders in the case of internal combustion engine (L6, V8 or other).
2.3. Version
2.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the ability of the vehicle to tow a trailer or not;
(c) the engine capacity in the case of internal combustion engine;
(d) the maximum engine power output or the maximum continuous rated power (electric motor);
(e) the nature of the fuel (petrol, gas oil, LPG, bi-fuel or other);
(f) drive-by sound level;
(g) exhaust emission level (for example Euro IV, Euro V or other).
3. Category
N 1
3.1. Vehicle
type
3.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following features in common:
(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;

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(b) the design and assembly of the essential parts of the body structure in the case of a self-supporting body;
(c) the design and the construction of the essential constituent elements forming the chassis in the case of a non
self-supporting body;
(d) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
3.1.2. By way of derogation from the requirements of point 3.1.1(b), when the manufacturer uses the floor portion of the
body structure as well the essential constituent elements forming the front part of the body structure located
directly in front of the windscreen bay, in the construction of different kinds of bodywork (for example a van and
a chassis-cab, different wheelbases and different roof heights), those vehicles may be considered as belonging to the
same type. Evidence thereof shall be provided by the manufacturer.
3.1.3. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.
3.2. Variant
3.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction features in
common:
(a) the number of lateral doors or the type of bodywork as defined in Section 3 of Part C (for complete and
completed vehicles) when the manufacturer uses the criterion of point 3.1.2;
(b) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete/completed);
(c) the power plant with regard to the following construction features:
(i) the type of energy supply (internal combustion engine, electric motor or other);
(ii) the working principle (positive ignition, compression ignition or other);
(iii) the number and arrangement of cylinders in the case of internal combustion engine (L6, V8 or other);
(d) the number of axles;
(e) the number and interconnection of powered axles;
(f) the number of steered axles.
3.3. Version
3.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the engine capacity in the case of internal combustion engine;
(c) the maximum engine power output or maximum continuous rated power (electric motor);
(d) the nature of the fuel (petrol, gas oil, LPG, bi-fuel or other);
(e) the maximum number of seating positions;
(f) drive-by sound level;
(g) exhaust emission level (for example Euro 5, Euro 6 or other);
(h) combined or weighted, combined CO 2 emissions;
(i) electric energy consumption (weighted, combined);
(j) combined or weighted, combined fuel consumption.
4. Categories
N 2 and N 3
4.1. Vehicle
type
4.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following essential features in common:
(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;
(b) the category;
(c) the design and construction of the chassis that are common to a single line of product;
(d) the number of axles;
(e) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
4.1.2. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.

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4.2. Variant
4.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction features in
common:
(a) the body structural concept or type of bodywork as referred to in Section 3 of Part C and in Appendix 2 (only
for complete and completed vehicles);
(b) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete/completed);
(c) the power plant with regard to the following construction features:
(i) the type of energy supply (internal combustion engine, electric motor or other);
(ii) the working principle (positive ignition, compression ignition or other);
(iii) the number and arrangement of cylinders in the case of internal combustion engine (L6, V8 or other);
(d) the number and interconnection of powered axles;
(e) the number of steered axles.
4.3. Version
4.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the ability or not to tow a trailer as follows:
(i) an unbraked trailer;
(ii) a trailer with an inertia (or overrun) braking system as defined in point 2.12 of UNECE Regulation No 13;
(iii) a trailer with a continuous or semi-continuous braking system as defined in points 2.9 and 2.10 of UNECE
Regulation No 13;
(iv) a trailer of category O 4 that results in a maximum mass of the combination not exceeding 44 tonnes;
(v) a trailer of category O 4 that results in a maximum mass of the combination exceeding 44 tonnes;
(c) the engine capacity;
(d) the maximum engine power output;
(e) the nature of the fuel (petrol, gas oil, LPG, bi-fuel or other);
(f) drive-by sound level;
(g) exhaust emission level (for example Euro IV, Euro V or other).
5. Categories
O 1 and O 2
5.1. Vehicle
type
5.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following features in common:
(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;
(b) the category;
(c) the concept as defined in section 4 of Part C;

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(d) the following aspects of construction and design:
(i) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the chassis;
(ii) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the body structure in the case of
a self-supporting body;
(e) the number of axles;
(f) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
5.1.2. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.
5.2. Variant
5.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction features in
common:
(a) the kind of bodywork as referred to in Appendix 2 (for complete and completed vehicles);
(b) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete/completed);
(c) the type of braking system (e.g. unbraked/inertia/power).
5.3. Version
5.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the concept of the suspension (air, steel or rubber suspension, torsion bar or other);
(c) the concept of the drawbar (triangle, tube or other).
6. Categories
O 3 and O 4
6.1. Vehicle
type
6.1.1. A “vehicle type” shall consist of vehicles which have all of the following features in common:
(a) the manufacturer’s company name.
A change in the legal form of ownership of the company does not require that a new approval has to be
granted;
(b) the category;
(c) the concept of the trailer with relation to the definitions in section 4 of Part C;
(d) the following aspects of construction and design:
(i) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the chassis;
(ii) the design and construction of the essential constituent elements forming the body structure in the case of
trailers with a self-supporting body;
(e) the number of axles;
(f) in the case of multi-stage built vehicles, the manufacturer and the type of the previous stage vehicle.
6.1.2. A type shall consist of at least one variant and one version.
6.2. Variants
6.2.1. A “variant” within a vehicle type shall group the vehicles which have all of the following construction and design
features in common:
(a) the kind of bodywork as referred to in Appendix 2 (for complete and completed vehicles);
(b) the stage of completion (e.g. complete/incomplete/completed);
(c) the concept of the suspensions (steel, air or hydraulic suspension);
(d) the following technical features:
(i) the capability or not for the chassis to be extendible;
(ii) the deck height (normal, low loader, semi-low loader etc.).

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6.3. Versions
6.3.1. A “version” within a variant shall group the vehicles which have all the following features in common:
(a) the technically permissible maximum laden mass;
(b) the subdivisions or combination of subdivisions referred to in points 3.2 and 3.3 of Annex I to Directive
96/53/EC into which the axle spacing between two consecutive axles forming a group belongs;
(c) the definition of the axles in the following respects;
(i) lift axles (number and position);
(ii) loadable axles (number and position);
(iii) steered axle (number and position).
7. Common
requirements
for
all
vehicle
categories
7.1. When a vehicle falls into several categories because of its maximum mass or the number of seating positions or
both, the manufacturer may select to use the criteria of one or the other vehicle category for the definition of the
variants and the versions.
7.1.1. Examples:
(a) a vehicle “A” may be type-approved as N 1 (3,5 tonnes) and N 2 (4,2 tonnes) in relation to its maximum mass.
In such a case, the parameters mentioned in category N 1 may be used also for the vehicle that falls into
category N 2 (or vice-versa);
(b) A vehicle “B“ may be type-approved as M 1 and M 2 in relation to the number of seating positions (7 + 1 or
10 + 1), the parameters mentioned in category M 1 may be used also for the vehicle that falls into category M 2
(or vice-versa).
7.2. A
vehicle
of
category
N
may
be
type-approved
against
the
provisions
required
for
category
M 1 or M 2 , as the case
may be, when it is intended to be converted into a vehicle of that category during the next step of a multi-stage
type-approval procedure.
7.2.1. This option shall only be permitted for incomplete vehicles.
Such vehicles shall be identified by a specific variant code given by the manufacturer of the base vehicle.
7.3. Type-, variant- and version designations
7.3.1. The manufacturer shall allocate an alphanumeric code to each vehicle type, variant and version, made up of
Roman letters and/or Arabic numerals.
The use of brackets and hyphens is permitted provided they do not replace a letter or a numeral.
7.3.2. The whole code shall be designated: Type-Variant-Version or “TVV”.
7.3.3. The TVV shall clearly and unequivocally identify a unique combination of technical features in relation to the
criteria defined in Part B of this Annex.
7.3.4. The same manufacturer may use the same code in order to define a vehicle type when the latter falls in two or
more categories.
7.3.5. The same manufacturer shall not use the same code in order to define a vehicle type for more than one type-
approval within the same vehicle category.
7.4. Number
of
characters
for
the
TVV
7.4.1. The number of characters shall not exceed:
(a) 15 for the code of the vehicle type;
(b) 25 for the code of one variant;
(c) 35 for the code of one version.
7.4.2. The complete alphanumeric “TVV” shall not contain more than 75 characters.
7.4.3. When the TVV is used as a whole, a space shall be left between the type, the variant and the version.
Example of such TVV: 159AF[…space]0054[…space]977K(BE).

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PART C
Definitions of types of bodywork
0. General
0.1. The type of bodywork referred to in Section 9 of Annex I and Part 1 of Annex III as well as the code for
bodywork referred to in Item 38 of Annex IX shall be indicated by means of codes.
The list of codes shall apply primarily to complete and completed vehicles.
0.2. As regards vehicles of categories M, the type of bodywork shall consist of two letters as specified in Sections 1
and 2.
0.3. As regards vehicles of categories N and O, the type of bodywork shall consist of two letters as referred to in
Sections 3 and 4.
0.4. Where necessary (especially for the types of bodywork referred to respectively in points 3.1 and 3.6 and in points
4.1 to 4.4), they shall be supplemented by two digits.
0.4.1. The list of digits shall be laid down in Appendix 2 to this Annex.
0.5. For special purpose vehicles, the type of bodywork to be used shall be linked to the category of the vehicle.
1. Vehicles
belonging
to
category
M 1
Ref. Code Name Definition
1.1. AA Saloon a
vehicle
defined
in
term
3.1.1.1
of
Standard
ISO
3833:1977,
fitted
with at least four side windows.
1.2. AB Hatchback
a saloon as defined in 1.1 with a hatch at the rear end of the vehicle.
1.3. AC Station
wagon a
vehicle
defined
in
term
3.1.1.4
of
Standard
ISO
3833:1977.
1.4. AD Coupé a
vehicle
defined
in
term
3.1.1.5
of
Standard
ISO
3833:1977.
1.5. AE Convertible a
vehicle
defined
in
terms
No
3.1.1.6
of
Standard
ISO
3833:1977.
However a convertible may have no door.
1.6. AF Multi-purpose
vehicle
a vehicle other than AG and those mentioned in AA to AE intended
for carrying persons and their luggage or occasionally goods, in a
single compartment.
1.7. AG Truck
station
wagon a
vehicle
defined
in
terms
No
3.1.1.4.1
of
Standard
ISO
3833:1977.
However, the luggage compartment must be completely separated
from the passenger compartment.
In addition, the reference point of the driver’s seating position needs
not to be at least at 750 mm above the surface supporting the
vehicle.
2. Vehicles
belonging
to
category
M 2 or M 3
Ref. Code Name Definition
2.1. CA Single-deck
vehicle
a vehicle where the spaces provided for persons are arranged in a
single level or in a way that they do not constitute two superimposed
levels;
2.2. CB Double-deck
vehicle a
vehicle
defined
in
point
2.1.6
of
Annex
I
to
Directive
2001/85/EC;
2.3. CC Single-deck
articulated
a vehicle defined in point 2.1.3 of Annex I to Directive 2001/85/EC
vehicle
with a single deck;
2.4. CD Double-deck
a vehicle defined in point 2.1.3.1 of Annex I to Directive
articulated vehicle
2001/85/EC;

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Ref. Code Name Definition
2.5. CE Low-floor
single-deck
a vehicle defined in point 2.1.4 of Annex I to Directive 2001/85/EC
vehicle
with a single deck;
2.6. CF Low-floor
double-deck
a vehicle defined in point 2.1.4 of Annex I to Directive 2001/85/EC
vehicle
with a double deck;
2.7. CG Articulated low-floor
a vehicle that combines the technical features of entries 2.3 and 2.5;
single-deck vehicle
2.8. CH Articulated low-floor
a vehicle that combines the technical features of entries 2.4 and 2.6;
double-deck vehicle
2.9. CI Open
top
single
deck
a vehicle with partial roof or without roof;
vehicle
2.10. CJ Open
top
double
deck
a vehicle without roof over all or part of its upper deck;
vehicle
2.11. CX Bus
chassis an
incomplete
vehicle
with
just
chassis
rails
or
tube
assembly,
power
train, axles, which is intended to be completed with bodywork,
customised to the needs of the transport operator.
3. Motor
vehicles
of
category
N 1 , N 2 or N 3
Ref. Code Name Definition
3.1. BA Lorry a
vehicle
which
is
designed
and
constructed
exclusively
or
principally
for conveying goods.
It may also tow a trailer.
3.2. BB Van a
lorry
with
the
compartment
where
the
driver
is
located
and
cargo
area within a single unit;
3.3. BC Tractor
unit
for
semi-
a towing vehicle which is designed and constructed exclusively or
trailer
principally to tow semi-trailers;
3.4. BD Road
tractor
a towing vehicle which is designed and constructed exclusively to tow
trailers other than semi-trailers;
3.5. BE Pick-up
truck a
vehicle
of
a
maximum
mass
not
exceeding
3
500
kg
in
which
the
seating positions and the cargo area are not located in a single
compartment;
3.6. BX Chassis-cab
or
chassis-
an incomplete vehicle with just a cabin (complete or partial), chassis
cowl
rails, power train, axles, which is intended to be completed with
bodywork, customised to the needs of the transport operator.
4. Vehicles
of
category
O
Ref. Code Name Definition
4.1. DA Semi-trailer
a trailer which is designed and constructed to be coupled to a tractor
unit or to a converter dolly and to impose a substantial vertical load
on the towing vehicle or on the converter dolly.
The coupling to be used for a vehicle combination shall consist of a
king pin and a fifth wheel.
4.2. DB Drawbar
trailer
a trailer having at least two axles, of which at least one is a steered
axle:
(a) equipped with a towing device which can move vertically (in
relation to the trailer) and
(b) that transmits less than 100 daN as a static vertical load to the
towing vehicle.

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EN
15.7.2011 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/49
Ref. Code Name Definition
4.3. DC Centre-axle
trailer
a trailer where the axle(s) is (are) positioned close to the centre of
gravity of the vehicle (when uniformly loaded) so that only a small
static vertical load, not exceeding 10 % of that corresponding to the
maximum mass of the trailer or a load of 1 000 daN (whichever is
the lesser) is transmitted to the towing vehicle.
4.4. DE Rigid
drawbar
trailer
a trailer with one axle or one group of axles fitted with a drawbar
which transmits a static load not exceeding 4 000 daN to the towing
vehicle due to its construction and which does not meet the
definition of a centre-axle trailer.
The coupling to be used for a vehicle combination shall not consist
of a king pin and a fifth wheel.

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L 185/50
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
Appendix 1
Procedure for checking whether a vehicle can be categorised as off-road vehicle
0. General
0.1. For the purposes of classification of a vehicle as off-road vehicle, the procedure described in this Appendix shall
apply.
1. Test
conditions
for
geometric
measurements
1.1. Vehicles
belonging
to
category
M 1 or N 1 shall be in unloaded conditions with a manikin of the 50th percentile
male installed on the driver’s seat and fitted with coolant fluid, lubricants, fuel, tools, spare-wheel (if fitted as OEM
equipment).
The manikin may be replaced by a similar device having the same mass.
1.2. Vehicles other than those referred to in point 1.1 shall be loaded to their technically permissible maximum laden
mass.
The distribution of the mass on the axles shall be the one that represents the worst case with respect to
compliance with the respective criteria.
1.3. A vehicle representative of the type shall be submitted to the technical service in the conditions specified in point
1.1 or 1.2. The vehicle shall be in a stationary position with its wheels set straight ahead.
The ground on which measurements are made shall be as flat and horizontal (maximum of inclination 0,5 %) as
possible.
2. Measurement
of
approach,
departure
and
ramp
angles
2.1. The approach angle shall be measured in accordance with Item 6.10 of Standard ISO 612:1978.
2.2. The departure angle shall be measured in accordance with Item 6.11 of Standard ISO 612:1978.
2.3. The ramp angle shall be measured in accordance with Item 6.9 of Standard ISO 612:1978.
2.4. When
measuring
the
departure
angle
rear
underrun
protection
devices
which
are
adjustable
in
height
may
be
set
in
the upper position.
2.5. The
prescription
in
point
2.4
shall
not
be
construed
as
an
obligation
for
the
base
vehicle
to
be
fitted
with
a
rear
underrun protection as original equipment. However, the base vehicle manufacturer shall inform the next stage
manufacturer that the vehicle has to comply with the requirements on departure angle when fitted with a rear
underrun protection.
3. Measurement
of
ground
clearance
3.1. Ground
clearance
between
the
axles
3.1.1. “Ground clearance between the axles” means the shortest distance between the ground plane and the lowest fixed point
of the vehicle.
For the application of the definition, the distance between the last axle of a front group of axle and the first axle of
a rear group of axle shall be considered.

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EN
15.7.2011 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/51
3.1.2. No rigid part of the vehicle may project into the shaded area shown on the figure.
3.2. Ground
clearance
beneath
one
axle
3.2.1. “Ground clearance beneath one axle” means the distance beneath the highest point of the arc of a circle passing
through the centre of the tyre footprint of the wheels on one axle (the inner wheels in the case of twin tyres) and
touching the lowest fixed point of the vehicle between the wheels.
3.2.2. Where appropriate, the measurement of ground clearance shall be conducted on each of the several axles of a
group of axles.
4. Gradeability
4.1. “Gradeability” means the ability of a vehicle to negotiate a gradient.
4.2. To the effect of checking the gradeability of an incomplete and a complete vehicle of category M 2 , M 3 , N 2 and N 3 ,
a test shall be performed.
4.3. The
test
shall
be
conducted
by
the
technical
service
on
a
vehicle
representative
of
the
type
to
be
tested.
4.4. At the request of the manufacturer and under the conditions specified in Annex XVI , the gradeability of a vehicle
type may be demonstrated by virtual testing.
5. Test
conditions
and
pass-fail
criterion
5.1. Until 31 October 2014, the conditions set out in section 7.5 of Annex I to Directive 97/27/EC shall apply.
As from 1 November 2014, test conditions adopted under Regulation (EC) No 661/2009 of the European
Parliament and of the Council ( 1 ) in accordance with Article 14 of that Regulation shall apply.
5.2. The
vehicle
shall
climb
the
gradient
at
a
steady
speed
without
any
wheel
slipping,
longitudinally
or
laterally.
( 1 ) OJ L 200, 31.7.2009, p. 1.

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L 185/52
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
Appendix 2
Digits used to supplement the codes to be used for various kinds of bodywork
01 Flat bed;
02 Drop-side;
03 Box body;
04 Conditioned body with insulated walls and equipment to maintain the interior temperature;
05 Conditioned body with insulated walls but without equipment to maintain the interior temperature;
06 Curtain-sided;
07 Swap body (interchangeable superstructure);
08 Container carrier;
09 Vehicles fitted with hook lift;
10 Tipper;
11 Tank;
12 Tank intended for transport of dangerous goods;
13 Livestock carrier;
14 Vehicle transporter;
15 Concrete mixer;
16 Concrete pump vehicle;
17 Timber;
18 Refuse collection vehicle;
19 Street sweeper, cleansing and drain clearing;
20 Compressor;
21 Boat carrier;
22 Glider carrier;
23 Vehicles for retail or display purposes;
24 Recovery vehicle;
25 Ladder vehicle;
26 Crane lorry (other than a mobile crane as defined in Section 5 of Part A of Annex II);
27 Aerial work platform vehicle;
28 Digger derrick vehicle;
29 Low floor trailer;
30 Glazing transporter;
31 Fire engine;
99 Bodywork that is not included in the present list.’

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EN
15.7.2011 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/53
ANNEX II
Annex IV to Directive 2007/46/EC is amended as follows:
(1) the title of Annex IV is replaced by ‘REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PURPOSE OF EC TYPE-APPROVAL OF
VEHICLES’;
(2) item 43 of Part I of Annex IV is replaced by the following:
‘43 Spray
suppression Directive 91/226/EEC L 103, 23.4.1991,
x x x x x x x’
systems
p. 5
(3) the title of the Appendix to Annex IV is replaced by ‘Requirements for type-approval of vehicles belonging to
the category M 1 , produced in small series pursuant to Article 22’.

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L 185/54
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
ANNEX III
Annex IX to Directive 2007/46/EC is amended as follows:
(1) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle category N 2 (complete and completed vehicles)” of the template of the
certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(2) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle category N 3 (complete and completed vehicles)” of the template of the
certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(3) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle categories O 1 and O 2 (complete and completed vehicles)” of the template
of the certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(4) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle categories O 3 and O 4 (complete and completed vehicles)” of the template
of the certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(5) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle category N 2 (incomplete vehicles)” of the template of the certificate of
conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(6) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle category N 3 (incomplete vehicles)” of the template of the certificate of
conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(7) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle categories O 1 and O 2 (incomplete vehicles)” of the template of the
certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(8) The text of the entry 31 in “Side 2 - Vehicle categories O 3 and O 4 (incomplete vehicles)” of the template of the
certificate of conformity is replaced by the following text:
′31. Position of lift axle(s): … ′
(9) The text of the explanatory notes relating to Annex IX is amended as follows:
(a) The last sentence of the explanatory note (a) is deleted;
(b) The following sentence is added to the explanatory note (e):
′For a centre-axle trailer with one single axle, indicate the horizontal distance between the vertical axis of the
coupling and the centre of the axle. ′

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EN
15.7.2011 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
185/55
ANNEX IV
Annex XI to Directive 2007/46/EC is amended as follows:
(1) item 43 of Appendix 2 to Annex XI is replaced by the following:
‘43 Spray
suppression
systems Directive
91/226/EEC
x
x
x
x
x
x x’
(2) item 43 of Appendix 4 to Annex XI is replaced by the following:
‘43 Spray
suppression
systems Directive
91/226/EEC
x
x
x
x
x
x x’
(3) the following Appendix 6 is inserted after Appendix 5 and before the ″Meaning of letters ″:
′Appendix 6
Exceptional load transport trailers
Item Subject
Regulatory act
Trailer of
reference
category O 4
3 Fuel
tanks/rear
protective
devices Directive
X
70/221/EEC
4 Rear
registration
plate
space Directive
X
70/222/EEC
5 Steering
effort Directive
X
70/311/EEC
9 Braking Directive
X
71/320/EEC
10 Radio
interference
(electromagnetic
compatibility) Directive
X
72/245/EEC
18 Plates
(statutory) Directive
X
76/114/EEC
20 Installation
of
lighting
and
light
signalling
devices Directive
A + N
76/756/EEC
21 Reflex
reflectors Directive
X
76/757/EEC
22 End-outline,
front
position
(side),
rear-position
(side),
stop,
Directive
X
side marker, daytime running lamps
76/758/EEC
23 Direction
indicators Directive
X
76/759/EEC
24 Rear
registration
plate
lamps Directive
X
76/760/EEC
28 Rear
fog
lamps Directive
X
77/538/EEC
29 Reversing
lamps Directive
X
77/539/EEC
36 Heating
systems Directive
N/A
2001/56/EC
42 Lateral
protection Directive
A
89/297/EEC
43 Spray-suppression
systems Directive
A
91/226/EEC

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L 185/56
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
15.7.2011
Item Subject
Regulatory act
Trailer of
reference
category O 4
46 Tyres Directive
I
92/23/EEC
48 Masses
and
dimensions Directive
X
97/27/EC
50 Couplings Directive
X
94/20/EC
63 General
safety
Regulation Regulation
(EC)
No
P/A ′
661/2009
(4) the ′Meaning of letters ′ shall be amended as follows:
(a) point L shall be replaced by the following text:
′L: Application limited to seats designated for normal use when the vehicle is travelling on the road. At least
anchorages for lap belts are required in the rear seating positions. Seats which are not designated for use when
the vehicle is travelling on the road shall be clearly identified to users by means of a pictogram or a sign with
an appropriate text.; ′
(b) the following point shall be inserted after point N/A:
′P/A: This regulatory act is partially applicable. The precise scope of application is established in the imple
menting measures to Regulation (EC) No 661/2009. ′;
(c) the following point shall be inserted after point H
′I: Tyres must be type-approved under the requirements of UNECE Regulation No 54 even if the maximum
design speed of the vehicle is less than 80 km/h.
The load capacity may be adjusted in relation to the maximum design speed of the trailer in agreement with
the tyre manufacturer. ′.

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