ïfffr COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
C0M(91) 239 final - SYN 348 
Brussels, 8 July 1991 
Proposal for a 
COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 
relating to the masses and dimensions of certain categories of 
motor vehicles and their trailers 
(presented by the Commission) 
fiiu 
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EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM 
I. BACKGROUND 
1. The implementation of the EEC type approval procedure for motor vehicles 
and their trailers covered by Council directive 70/156/EEC of 6 February 
19701) comprises especially the adoption of the last separate 
directives for passenger cars (tyres, masses and dimensions, safety 
glazing). The Commission has submitted proposals for this reason in 
January 1990. Furthermore the framework directive assigns the adoption 
of special provisions for goods vehicles, that is to say trucks with a 
maximum mass exceeding 3,5 t. To take care of the precise and 
comprehensive content of these provisions it is deemed opportune to 
adopt in particular harmonized Community requirements, inter alia, 
masses and dimensions (items 2.2, 2.4, 2,6 and 2,8 fo Annex II), speed 
limiters and external projections of cabs (item 12.4 of Annex 11 ) as 
special safety provisions for goods vehicles. 
2. The European Parliament has adopted, on the 13 March 1984, a resolution 
on the introduction of a programme of Community measures to promote road 
safety2^ and on the 18 February 1986 another resolution on common 
measures to reduce road accidents as part of the Community's programme 
for Road Safety Year 19863). The Council and the Commission are asked 
by these resolutions to take the necessary measures with the aim of 
promoting road safety. 
1) OJ n* L 42, 23.2.1970, p. 1 
2) OJ n* C 104, 16.4.1984, p. 38 
3) OJ n* C 68, 24.3.1986, p. 35 
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3. In view of the entry into force of the Single European Act and of the 
aim of a single internal market to be achieved by the end of 1992, it is 
now urgent that the remaining measures that are needed in order to 
complete EEC type approval should be adopted. 
4. The legal/administrative procedure put forward in the enacting terms of 
these proposals does not depart from that laid down in framework 
directive 70/156/EEC that is currently in force except as regards the 
procedure for adaptation to technical progress, whereby the Regulatory 
Committee has been replaced by the Advisory Committee. Indeed, the 
Commission intends to apply the provisions of the Single Act, which 
provide for the delegation of power to the Commission in order to 
proceed with this task. 
5. With regard to the other options, such as that of the method of 
harmonization (total or optional), the Commission is still applying the 
solutions currently in force. 
However, the Commission does not intend to neglect this important 
matter; considering that the total harmonization will be essential in 
order to fully achieve the large single market, it intends to put 
forward relevant proposals when the framework directive 70/156/EEC is 
next amended. 
11. REASONS FOR AND CONTENT OF THE PROPOSAL 
6. Masses and dimensions of motor vehicles and their trailers 
For the completion of the EEC whole vehicle type approval of goods 
vehicles, buses and their trailers several separate directives are still 
missing, e.g. the directive related to masses and dimensions of these 
vehicles, required by the items 2.2, 2.4, 2.6 and 2.8 of Annex II to 
directive 70/156/EEC. 
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For the purpose of type-approval of a vehicle, from the point of view of 
its roadworthiness and compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, 
one has to bear in mind the distinction between two different concepts, 
at least as for as masses (i.e. weihgts) are concerned : 
- the technically permissible mass, i.e. the maximum total weight (the 
vehicle's own weight + payload) which the vehicle is able to carry 
safely from a constructional point of view. This mass is not subject 
to a legal maximum, but the manufacturer has to supply the technical 
data which allow to verify the accuracy of the technically permissible 
mass which he declares. 
- the maximum authorized mass. 
Also at the stage of type-approval, the manufacturer has to declare a 
maximum authorized mass which the vehicle will not be allowed to exceed. 
The manufacturer will define the maximum authorised mass in function of 
commercial (type of customers and use) but also administrative criteria 
(taxation, categories of drivers licence, speed limits, customs duties). 
However, in addition the declared maximum authorised mass is subject to 
two absolute maxima which the vehicle is not allowed to exceed : 
1' the technically permissible mass of the vehicle in question 
2' the legal absolute maximum masses which, with a view mainly to 
infrastructure considerations (compatibility with road surfaces and 
bridges), are legally defined for the various types of vehicles 
(two, three, four axle vehicles, road trains, etc..) and also per 
ax le. 
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At Community level, these absolute maximum values are laid down in 
directive 85/3/EEC. However, as the Community harmonisation is not 
perfected as yet in this fiels the present draft proposal refers to the 
maximum values as defined by the relevant road traffic regulations". In 
practice«these values correspond to the values of Directive 85/3/EEC for 
the majority of the Member States, for the United Kingdom, Ireland, 
Denmark and the Netherlands different values are in force. 
This draft directive covers all categories of motor vehicles except 
passenger cars for which a separate directive has been elaborated, at 
present under discussion in the Council and European Parliament. The 
present proposal contains requirements for the swept path, engine 
power/maximum weight ratio and hill starting-ability for motor vehicles 
and road trains; these provisions are laid down in item 2.9 and 2.10 of 
Annex II to directive 70/156/EEC. Furthermore requirements for the 
maximum authorized towable mass of motor vehicles in relation to trailers 
with or without service brakes are included in this proposal for a new 
direct ive. 
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PROPOSAL 
FOR A COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 
relating to the masses and dimensions of certain categories of motor vehicles 
and their trailers 
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, and 
in particular Article 100A thereof, 
having regard to the proposal from the Commission , 
2 in cooperation with the European Parliament , 
3 having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee , 
Whereas measures should be adopted in order gradually to establish the 
internal market during a period expiring on 30 December 1992; whereas the 
internal market comprises an entity without internal frontiers within which 
the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital shall be guaranteed; 
whereas the technical requirements which certain vehicle categories must 
satisfy pursuant to national laws relate, inter alia, to their masses and 
dimensions; 
whereas these requirements differ from one Member State to another; whereas 
it is therefore necessary that all Member States adopt the same requirements 
either in addition to or in place of their existing rules in order to allow, 
in particular, the EEC type-approval procedure which was the subject of 
Council Directive 70/156/EEC of 6 February 1970 on the approximation of the 
laws of the Member States relating to the type-approval of motor vehicles and 
4 their trailers , as last amended 
respect of each type of vehicle; 4 5 
their trailers , as last amended by Directive 87/403/EEC , to be applied in 
1 OJ n° C ... 
2 OJ n° C ... 
3 OJ n° C ... 
4 OJ n° L 42, 23.2.1970, p. 1 
5 OJ n° L 220, 8.8.1987, p. 44 
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whereas Article 13 of Directive 70/156/EEC lays down a procedure for the 
adaptation to technical progress of the provisions of the annexes thereto; 
whereas, however, technical progress makes prompt adaptation of the technical 
requirements laid down by the separate dirctives necessary; whereas the 
Commission should be made responsible for the adoption thereof in order to 
simplify and expedite the procedure; whereas in all cases where the Council 
confers powers upon the Commission to implement rules laid down in the motor 
vehicle sector it is appropriate to provide for a procedure of prior 
consultation between the Commission and the Member States within an advisory 
committee; 
HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE 
Article 1 
This Directive applies to the masses, dimensions and technical requirements 
for vehicles which are intended to be type-approved according to their 
construction characteristics. 
The provisions of this Directive do not preclude any limits to masses and 
dimensions for various categories of vehicles as defined by the relevant road 
use legislations. 
For the purposes of this Directive "vehicle" means any motor vehicle as 
defined in Annex I to Directive 70/156/EEC, with the exception of vehicles of 
category M , designed and constructed for use on the road, with or without 
bodywork, having at least four wheels and a maximum design speed exceeding 
25 km/h, and their trailers. 
Article 2 
Member States may not refuse EEC type-approval or national type-approval of a 
type of vehicle, or refuse or prohibit the sale, registration, entry into 
service "or use of a vehicle on grounds relating to its masses and dimensions 
if these satisfy the requirements set out in Annex 1 hereto. 
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Article 3 
Any amendments necessary to adapt the requirements of the Annexes to this 
Directive to technical progress shall be adopted by the Commission in 
accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 4. 
Article 4 
The Commission shall be assisted by the committee established under Article 12 
of Directive 70/156/EEC. 
The representative of the Commission shall submit to the committee a draft of 
the measures to be taken. The committee shall deliver its opinion on the 
draft within a time-limit which the Chairman may lay dow according to the 
urgency of the matter, if necessary by taking a vote. 
The opinion shall be recorded in the minutes; in addition, each Member State 
shall have the right to ask to have its position recorded in the minutes. 
The Commission shall take the utmost account of the opinion delivered by the 
committee. It shall inform the committee of the manner in which its opinion 
has been taken into account. 
Article 5 
1. Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and 
administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive not later 
than 1 October 1992. They shall forthwith inform the Commission thereof. 
2. When Member States adopt these provisions, these shall contain a reference 
to this Directive or shall be accompanied by such reference at the time of 
their official publication. The procedure for such reference shall be 
adopted by Member States. 
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Article 6 
With effect from 1 October 1993 Member States : 
- may no longer issue the document provided for in Article 10 (1), third 
indent, of Directive 70/156/EEC in respect of a type of vehicle of which the 
masses and dimensions do not meet the requirements of this Directive, 
- may refuse to grant national type-approval in respect of a type of vehicle 
of which the masses and dimensions do not comply with the provisions of this 
Directive. 
Article 7 
This directive is addressed to the Member States. 
Done at Brussels, 1992. 
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ANNEX I 
1. Scope 
This directive applies to the masses and dimensions of motor vehicles of 
category M , M and N and their trailers of category 0, as defined in 
Annex I to Directive 70/156/EEC. 
2* Definitions 
2.1. Motor vehicle means any power driven vehicle as defined in Annex I to 
Directive 70/156/EEC. 
2.2. Trailer means any vehicle, as defined in Annex I to Directive 
70/156/EEC, to be coupled to a motor vehicle, with the exclusion of 
semi-trailers; 
2.2.1 Semi-trailer means a towed vehicle in which the axle(s) is (are) 
positioned behind the centre of gravity of the vehicle (when uniformly 
loaded) and which is equipped with a connecting device permitting 
horizontal and vertical forces to be transmitted to the drawing vehicle 
(tractive unit); a substantial mass of the semi-trailer is carried by 
the tractive unit. 
2.2.2 Full trailer means a towed vehicle having at least two axles, and 
equipped with a towing device which can move vertically (in relation to 
the trailer) and controls the direction of the front axle(s), but which 
transmits no significant static load to the drawing vehicle. 
2.2.3 Centre-axle trailer means a towed vehicle equipped with a towing device 
which cannot move vertically (in relation to the trailer), and in which 
the axle(s) is (are) positioned close to the centre of gravity of the 
vehicle (when uniformly loaded) such that only a small static vertical 
load, not exceeding 10% of that corresponding to the maximum mass of the 
trailer or load of 1000 daN (whichever is the lesser) is transmitted to 
the drawing vehicle. 
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2.3 Combined vehicles 
(Vehicle combinations) 
2.3.1 Road train means a vehicle combination consisting of a motor vehicle and 
a trailer, excluding semi-trailer. 
2.3.2 Articulated vehicle means a vehicle combination consisting of a motor 
vehicle (tractive unit) and a semi-trailer. 
2.3.3 Articulated bus means a bus consisting of two rigid sections connected 
permanently to each other by an articulated joint. The passenger 
compartments of both sections intercommunicate so that passengers can 
move freely between them. The two connected rigid sections can only be 
separated by an operation involving facilities of a workshop, mainly for 
repair purposes. 
2.4. Maximum authorized dimensions means the maximum dimensions up to which 
the vehicle is type approved. 
2.5. Kerb mass means the unladen mass of the vehicle in running order, 
including coolant, oils, fuel, tools, spare wheel and driver whose mass 
is assessed at 75 kg. 
2.6. Maximum authorized mass means the maximum mass up to which the vehicle 
is type approved; the maximum authorized mass of the vehicle shall not 
exceed the technically permissible maximum mass. 
2.7. Technically permissible maximum mass means the maximum mass of the 
vehicle based on its construction and given by the manufacturer. 
2.8. Maximum authorized mass on the axle means the maximum mass on the axle 
up to which the vehicle is type approved; the maximum authorized mass on 
the axle shall not exceed the technically permissible maximum mass on 
the axle. 
2.9. Technically permissible maximum mass on the axle means the maximum mass 
on the axle based on the construction of the vehicle and the axle and 
given by the manufacturer. 
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2.10. Maximum authorized towable mass means the maximum actual mass of a 
trailer to be coupled to the motor vehicle and up to which the motor 
vehicle is type approved; the maximum authorized towable mass shall not 
exceed the technically permissible maximum towable mass. 
2.11. Technically permissible maximum towable mass means the maximum mass of a 
trailer, which can be coupled to the motor vehicle based on the 
construction of the motor vehicle and/or the coupling given by the 
manufacturer. 
2.12. Technically permissible maximum vertical load on the coupling means the 
maximum load on the coupling based on the construction of the motor 
vehicle and/or coupling given by the manufacturer. 
This load is the proportional mass of a trailer, when coupled to a motor 
vehicle, transferred by the towing device of the trailer on the coupling 
of the motor vehicle and passing vertically through the centre of the 
coupling device. 
3. Application for EEC type-approval 
3.1. The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to its masses 
and dimensions shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or his 
duly accredited representative. 
3.2. It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents in triplicate 
and the following particulars: 
3.2.1 a description of the vehicle type, its axles, masses and dimensions 
comprising the particulars referred to in Annex II, along with the 
documentation required in application of Article 3 of Directive 
70/156/EEC and 
3.2.2 dimensional drawings of the front-, side- and rear-view of the vehicle 
and the arrangement of its axles showing the dimensional particulars 
laid down in this Annex. 
3.3. A vehicle conforming to the characteristics described in Annex II shall 
be submitted to the technical service responsible for conducting the 
approval tests and checks. 
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4. EEC type-approval 
An EEC type-approval certificate conforming to the model of Annex III 
shall be issued for approval referred to under sections 3.1 and 3.2. of 
this Annex. 
5. Maximum masses and dimensions of vehicles 
5.1. The maximum authorized mass of the vehicle and its axles shall not 
exceed the technically permissible maximum authorized mass of the 
vehicle and its axles. The sum of the technically permissible maximum 
masses of the axles shall not be less than the technically permissible 
maximum mass and consequently not less than the maximum authorized mass 
of the vehicle. The maximum authorized mass on each axle shall not be 
exceeded when the vehicle is uniformly laden to its maximum authorized 
mass; with regard to tractors of semi-trailers the vertical load on the 
fifth wheel has to be taken into account in this respect. 
5.2. In the case of buses and coaches the maximum authorized mass of such a 
vehicle and the masses on its axles shall not be exceeded, when the bus 
or coach is carrying the maximum number of passengers including the mass 
of the baggage, stated by the manufacturer in accordance with the 
technical service. For each passenger (seated or standing) a mass of 68 
kg has to be taken into account, the mass of standing passengers being 
uniformly distributed for these passengers. If the vehicle is capable 
of carrying baggage, its mass shall be uniformly distributed in the 
baggage compartments; if the vehicle is designed for carrying baggage on 
the roof, the mass of the baggage shall be uniformly laden and shall not 
exceed 75 kg per square metre. 
6. Special requirements 
6.1. Dimensions 
6.1.1. Any motor vehicle and articulated bus must be able to turn within a 
swept circle having an outer radius of 12.50 m and an inner radius of 
5.30 m.This requirement also applies to all articulated vehicles and 
road trains. 
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6.1.2. The distance between the axis of the fifth wheel king pin and the 
rearmost end of a semi-trailer shall not exceed 12.00 m, measured 
horizontally in the longitudinal plane of the vehicle. 
6.1.3. The distance between the fifth wheel king pin and any foremost point at 
the front of the semi-trailer shall not exceed 2.04 m, measured 
horizontally. 
6.1.4. In the case of road trains the distance between the rear axle of a 
motor vehicle and the front axle of a trailer shall not be less than 
3.00 m. 
7. Maximum authorized towable mass of a motor vehicle 
7.1. Trailers with service brakes to be coupled to motor vehicles 
For the purpose of towing a trailer with service brakes, the maximum 
authorized towable mass of a motor vehicle shall not exceed the maximum 
authorized mass of the towing motor vehicle or the technically 
permissible maximum towable mass of the motor vehicle, or the mass value 
resulting from the engine power/maximum mass ratio, whichever is the 
lowest value. 
In the case where the vehicles of a road train are equipped with a 
continuous braking system, the maximum authorized towable mass of a 
motor vehicle shall not exceed the maximum authorized mass of the motor 
vehicle multiplied by the factor 1.5 or the technically permissible 
maximum towable mass of the motor vehicle or the mass value resulting 
from the engine power/maximum mass ratio, whichever is the lowest value. 
7«2. Trailers without brakes to be coupled to motor vehicles 
For the purpose of towing a single axle or tandem axle trailer without 
service brakes, the maximum authorized towable mass of a motor vehicle 
shall not exceed half the mass of the towing motor vehicle in running 
order (including coolant, oils, fuels, tools, spare wheel and driver) or 
the technically permissible maximum towable mass of the motor vehicle or 
the mass value resulting from the engine power/maximum mass ratio, or a 
maximum mass of 0,75 t, whichever is the lowest value. 
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Motor vehicles towing a trailer without a service braking device shall, 
with the engine disconnected, provide a service braking capability 
equivalent to the requirements of the type-0 test related to 
deceleration of the braking Directive 71/320/EEC. 
7.3. Trailers to be coupled to motor vehicles of category M and M_ 
Only single axle or tandem axle-trailers are permitted to be coupled to 
motor vehicles of category M and M for the purpose of luggage 
transportation. The provisions of point 7.1 and 7.2 are applied 
accordingly. 
7.4. Vertical load on the coupling of motor vehicles 
The technically permissible maximum vertical load on the coupling device 
shall be taken into account when the maximum authorized mass of the 
vehicle and its rear axle(s) is determined. 
In the case of centre-axle trailers the maximum authorized vertical load 
on the coupling of a motor vehicle, transferred by the towing device of 
the trailer (when uniformally loaded) shall not exceed 10% of the 
maximum mass of the trailer or 1,000 kg; the lower value shall apply. 
The manufacturer shall specify the conditions for the attachment of the 
coupling device to the motor vehicle, especially the rear overhang of 
the attachment. 
8. Hill-starting ability 
Motor vehicles, road trains and articulated vehicles laden to their 
maximum authorized mass shall be able to start five times at an up-hill 
gradient of at least 12% within 5 minutes. 
9. Engine power/maximum mass ratio 
All motor vehicles shall provide an engine power output of at least 
5 kW/t of the maximum authorized mass of the motor vehicle, the road 
train or the articulated vehicle. 
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10. Conditions for maximum authorized mass on the drive axle in the case of 
suspension systems equivalent to air suspension 
10.1. Where the relevant road traffic regulations provide for a specific 
maximum value of the authorized mass on the drive axle for vehicles 
equipped with air suspension or suspension systems equivalent to air 
suspension, the following conditions apply : 
10.2. The drive axle shall be filled with twin tyres-. 
10.3. Tyre contact pressure 
Tyre contact pressure must not be greater than 8 bar. 
10-4. Definition of air suspension 
A suspension system is considered to be air suspended if at least 75% of 
the spring effect is caused by the air spring. 
10.5. Equivalence to air suspension 
A suspension recognized to be equivalent to air suspension must conform 
to the following conditions : 
10.5.1. During free transient low frequency vertical oscillation of the sprung 
mass above a drive axle or bogie, the measured frequency and damping 
with the suspension carrying its maximum load must comply with the 
limits defined in paragraphs 10.5.2 to 10.5.5. 
10.5.2. Each axle must be fitted with hydraulic dampers. On tandem axle bogies 
the dampers must be positioned to minimise the oscillation of the 
bogies. 
10.5.3. The mean damping ratio D must be more than 20% of critical damping for 
the suspension in its normal condition with hydraulic dampers in place 
and operating. 
10.5.4. The damping ratio d of the suspension with all hydraulic dampers 
removed or incapacitated must be not more than 50% of D. 
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10.5.5. The frequency of the sprung mass above the drive axle or bogie in a 
free transient vertical oscillation must not be higher than 2.0 Hz. 
10.5.6. The definition of the frequency and damping of the suspension is given 
in paragraph 10.6 and the test procedures for measuring the frequency 
and damping are laid down in paragraph 10.7. 
10.6. Definition of frequency and damping 
In this definition a sprung mass M kg above a drive axle or bogie is 
considered. The axle or bogie has a total vertical stiffness between the 
road surface and the sprung mass of k Newtons/metre (N/m) and a total 
damping coefficient of C Newtons per metre per second (N.s/m). The 
vertical displacement of the sprung mass is Z. The equation of motion 
for free oscillation of the sprung mass is 
d Z d Z 
M p" + c + kZ = 0 
dt dt 
The frequency of oscillation of the sprung mass F rad/sec is 
K C2 
F = 
M 4M 
The damping is critical when C = Co, where 
Co = 2 KM 
The damping ratio as a fraction of critical is C/Co. 
During free transient oscillation of the sprung mass, the vertical 
motion of the mass will follow a damped sinusoidal path (figure 2). The 
frequency can be estimated by measuring the time for as many cycles of 
oscillation as can be observed. The damping can be estimated by 
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measuring the heights of successive peaks of the oscillation in the same 
direction. If the peak amplitudes of the first and second cycles of the 
oscillation are A and A , then the damping ratio D is 
CIA 
Co 2 A2 
In is the natural logarithm of the amplitude ratio. 
10.7. Test procedure 
To establish by test the damping ratio D, the damping ratio with 
hydraulic dampers removed and the frequency F of the suspension, the 
loaded vehicle should either : 
a) be driven at slow speed (5 km/hr +/- 1 km/hr) over a 80 mm step 
with the profile shown in Figure 1. The transient oscillation to 
be analysed for frequency and damping occurs after the wheels on 
the drive axle have left the step; 
or b) be pulled down by its chassis so that the drive axle load is 1.5 
times its maximum static value. The vehicle hold down is suddenly 
released and the subsequent oscillation analysed; 
or c ) be pulled up by its chassis so that the sprung mass is lifted by 
80 mm above the drive axle. The vehicle hold up is suddenly 
dropped and the subsequent oscillation analysed. 
The vehicle should be instrumented with a vertical displacement 
transducer between drive axle and chassis, directly above the drive 
axle. From the trace, the time interval between the first and second 
compression peak can be measured to obtain the frequency F and the 
amplitude ratio to obtain the damping. For twin drive bogies, vertical 
displacement transducers should be fitted between each drive axle and 
the chassis directly above it. 
-1*. 
FIGURE 1 
STEP FOR SUSPENSION TESTS 
DIRECTION OF TMVSL 
. —: >• 
FIGURE 2 
A DAMPED TRANSIENT RESPONSE 
AMPuruo&s 
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ANNEX II 
MODEL INFORMATION DOCUMENT (a) 
The following information,if applicable, shall 
be supplied in triplicate and shall include 
a list of contents. 
Drawings, if any, shall be supplied in 
appropriate scale and in sufficient detail 
on size A4 or folded to that size. 
Photographs, if any, shall show sufficient 
detail. 
In the case of micro-processor controlled 
functions supply relevant performance-related 
information. 
0. GENERAL 
0.1 Make (trade name of manufacturer): 
0.2 Type and commercial description (mention any variants): 
0.3 Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle 
0.3.1 Location of that marking: 
(c) Category of vehicle : 0.4 
0.5 
0.6 
0.7 
0.8 (b) 
Name and address of manufacturer: 
Name and address of manufacturer's authorized representative 
(if any): 
Location of statutory plates and inscriptions and method of affixing 
0.7.1. On the chassis: 
0.7.2. On the bodywork: 
The serial numbers of the chassis of this type commerce at No. ... 
Footnotes, see Annex I to Directive 70/156/EEC, as last amended by Directive 
90/ /EEC (doc. 111/4141/88 Rev.2) 
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1. GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VEHICLE 
1.1 Photographs and/or drawings of a representative vehicle: 
1.2 Dimensional drawing of the whole vehicle: 
1.3 Number of axles and wheels (if applicable, number of caterpillars or 
tracks) : 
1.3.1 Number and position of axles with double wheels: 
1.3.2 Number and position of steered axles: 
1.3.3 Powered axles (number, position, interconnection): 
1.4 Chassis (if any) (overall drawing): 
( r\ ) 
1.5 Material used for the side-members : 
1.6 Position and arrangement of the engine: 
1.7 Driving cab (forward, semi-forward or normal): 
(e) 
2. MASSES AND DIMENSIONS (in kg, mm and angles) (refer to drawing where 
applicable) 
(f ) 
2.1 Wheel base(s) (fully loaded) v ;: 
2.1.1 In the case of semi-trailers: distance between the axis of the 
fifth wheel king pin and the foremost rear axle: 
2.1.2 Distance between the axis of the king pin and the rearmost end 
of the semi-trailer : 
2.1.3 Distance between the axis of the king pin and any point of the 
front of the semi-trailer : 
2.2 In the case of tractive units 
(a) 
2.2.1 Fifth wheel lead (maximum and minimum) & : 
2.2.2 Maximum height of the fifth wheel (standardised) : 
2.2.3 Distance between the rear of the cab and the rear axle(s) 
2.2.3.1 Distance between the rear of the cab and the rear 
axle(s) (in the case of a chassis with cab): 
2.2.3.2 Distance between the rear of the steering wheel and 
the rear axle(s) (in the case of a bare chassis): 
2.3 Axle track(s) and width(s) 
2.3.1 Track of each steered axle : 
2.3.2 Track of all other axles: 
2.3.3 Width of the widest rear axle: 
2.3.4 Width of the rearmost axle: 
i O.UU1VLI JL 
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2.4 Range of vehicle dimensions (overall) 
For chassis wit* 
2.4.1.1 Length 2.4.1 For chassis without bodywork 
(J). 
(k) 
2.4.1.2 Width : 
2.4.1.2.1 Maximum width: 
2.4.1.2.2 Minimum width: 
2.4.1.3 Height (unladen) (For suspension adjustable for 
height, indicate normal running position): 
2.4.1.4 Front overhang : 
2.4.1.5 Rear overhang : 2.4.1.6 Ground clearance (As defined in para. 4.5.4 of 
(c ) footnote v '): 
2.4.1.7 Distance between axles (if multi-axled): 
For chassis witl 
2.4.2.1 Length 2.4.2 For chassis with bodywork 
(J) 
2.4.2.2 Width v : 
(k) 2.4.2.2.1 Width of the bodywork of a refrigerated vehicle : 
2.4.2.3 Height (unladen) (For suspension adjustable for 
height, indicate normal running position): 
2.4.2.4 Front overhang : 
(c) 2.4.2.2.1 Approach (n) angle (para. 4.5.1. of footnote ): 
2.4.2.5 Rear overhang : 
(c) 2.4.2.5.1 Departure angle (para. 4.5.2. of footnote ): 
2.4.2.6 Ground clearance (As defined in para. 4.5.4. of 
(ch footnote ): 
(c) 2.4.2.6.1 Ramp angle (para. 4.5.3. of footnote ): 
2.4.2.7 Distance between axles (if multi-axled): 
2.5 Mass of the bare chassis (without cab, coolant, oils, fuel, spare 
wheel, tools or driver): 
2.5.1 Distribution of this mass among the axles: 
2.6 Mass of the vehicle with bodywork in running order, or mass of the 
chassis with cab if the manufacturer does not fit the bodywork 
( n ) 
(including coolant, oils, fuel, tools, spare wheel and driver) : 
2.6.1 Distribution of this mass among the axles and, in the case of a 
semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel king pin: 
2.7 Minimum mass of the vehicle as stated by the manufacturer: 
2.7.1 Distribution of this mass among the axles and, in the case of a 
semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel king pin: 
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2.8 Technically permissible maximum laden mass stated by the 
manufacturer: 
2.8.1 Distribution of this mass among the axles and, in the case of 
a semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel king pin: 
2.9 Technically permissible maximum mass on each axle and, in the case of 
a semi-trailer, load on the fifth wheel king pin stated by the 
manufacturer: 
2.10 Maximum mass of trailer which may be coupled 
2.10.1 Full trailer: 
2.10.2 Semi-trailer: 
2.10.3 Centre-axle trailer: indicate the maximum ratio of the coupling 
overhang to the wheelbase: 
2.10.4 Maximum mass of the combination: 
2.10.5 Vehicle is/is not suitable for towing loads 
2.10.6 Maximum mass of unbraked trailer: 
2.11 Maximum vertical load at the trailer coupling point for other than the 
fifth wheel king pin: 
2.12 Swept path: 
2.13 Engine power/maximum mass ratio (in kW/kg): 
2.14 Hill-starting ability: 
2.15 Gradient-climbing ability (off-road vehicle): % 
5. AXLES 
5.1 Drawing of each axle, together with a statement of the materials used 
and (optionally) of the make and type: 
5.2 Schematic diagram of steered anle(s) showing steering geometry: 
6. SUSPENSION 
6.1 Drawing of the suspension arrangements: 
6.2 Tyres and wheels normally fitted 
6.2.1 Distribution of tyres to axles and permitted tyre combinations: 
6.2.2 Range of tyre sizes: 
6.2.3 Upper and lower limits of rolling radii: 
6.2.4 Tyre pressure(s) as recommended by the vehicle 
manufacturer: kPa 
6.2.5 Tyre/wheel combination(s): 
6.2.6 Chain/tyre combination(s) and axle(s) on which it is to be 
mounted: 
- 19 -
6.3 Type and design of the suspension of each axle or wheel: 
6.3.1 Level adjustment: yes/no 
6.4 Characteristics of the springing parts of the suspension (design, 
characteristics of t\ 
6.5 Stabilisers : yes/no characteristics of the materials and dimensions): 
(1) 
6.6 Shock absorbers : yes/no 
9.17 Statutory plates 
9.17.1 Photographs and/or drawing of the locations of the statutory 
plates and inscriptions and of the chassis number: 
9.17.2 Photographs and/or drawigs of the official part of the plates 
and inscriptions (completed example with dimensions): 
9.17.3 Photographs and/or drawings of the chassis number (completed 
example with dimensions): 
9.17.4 Manufacturer's certificate of compliance with the requirement 
of the Annex I, item 3 to Directive 76/114 
9.17.4.1 If characters in the 2nd section are used to indicate general 
characteristics of the vehicle, these characteristics shall 
be indicated: 
9.17.4.2 If characters in the 2nd section are used to comply with the 
requirements of item 3.1.1.3, their meaning shall be 
explained: 
(1) Delete where inapplicable 

- 20 
ANNEX III 
MODEL 
(maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm)) 
EEC TYPE-APPROVAL CERTIFICATE 
(vehicle) 
STAMP OF 
ADMINISTRATION 
Communication concerning the 
- type-approval 
- extension of type-approval 
1 1 
- refusal of type-approval 
of a type of a vehicle with regard to Directive relating to the 
masses and dimensions of motor vehicles and their trailers 
EEC type-approval No. : Extension No. : 
SECTION I 
0.1 Make (name of undertaking): 
0.2 Type and commercial description (mention any variants): 
0.3 Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle : 
0.3.1 Location of that marking 
3 0.4 Category of vehicle : 
0.5 Name and address of manufacturer: 
0.6 Name and address of manufacturer's authorized representative 
(if any): 
1 Delete where inapplicable 
2 The means of identification of type, if used, shall appear only on those 
vehicles covered by the individual directive approval. If the means of 
identification of type contains characters not relevant to describe the 
vehicle types covered by this type-approval certificate, such characters 
shall be represented in the documentation by the symbol "?" 
(e.g. ABC??123??). 
3 As defined by footnote (c) of Annex I to Directive 70/156/EEC 
- 21 -
SECTION II 
1. Additional information 
1.1 Length (overall) m 
1.2 Width (overall) m 
1.3 Height (overall) m 
1.4 Max. authorized mass of the vehicle t 
1.4.1 Technically permissible max. mass of the vehicle t 
1.5 Max. authorized masses on the axles 
1.5.11. Axle t 
2. Axle t 
3. Axle t 
4. Axle t 
1.6 Technically permissible max. masses on the axles 
1.6.11. Axle t 
2. Axle t 
3. Axle t 
4. Axle t 
1.7 Technically permissible max. load on the fifth wheel 
kingpin X t 
1.8 Max. authorized towable mass of the motor vehicle 
1.8.1 Trailer with service brakes t 
1.8.2 Trailer without service brakes t 
1.9 Max. vertical load on the coupling device t 
2. Technical department responsible for carrying out the tests: 
3. Date of test report: 
4. Number of test report: 
5. Ground(s) for extending type-approval (where appropriate): 
6. Comments (if any): 
7. Place: 
8. Date: 
9. Signature: 
10. A list of documents making up the type-approval file lodged with 
the administrative department that has granted type-approval, 
which may be obtained on request, is attached. 
M 
FICHE D'IMPACT SUR LA COMPETITIVITE ET L'EMPLOI 
Proposition de directive du Conseil concernant le rapprochement des 
Législations des Etats membres relatives aux : 
r- masses et dimensions des poids lourds/ autobus et autocars; 
I. Quelle est la justification principale de la mesure ? 
- Achèvement de la procédure de réception CEE des véhicules automobiles, 
- Harmonisation des législations nationales. 
- Augmentation de la sécurité de La circulation routière. 
II. Caractéristiques des entreprises concernées 
En particulier : 
- y-a-t-il un grand nombre de PME ? Non. 
- note l'on des concentrations dans des régions : 
. éligibles aux aides régionales des E.M- ? Non. 
. éligibles. au Feder ? Non. 
III. Quelles sont les obligations imposées aux entreprises ? 
Respecter Les prescriptions desdites directives assurant ainsi le libre 
accès de leurs véhicuLes dans tout Le territoire de la Communauté. 
IV. Quelles sont les obligations susceptibles d'être imposées 
indirectement aux entreprises via les autorités locales ? 
Respecter les prescriptions desdites directives assurant ainsi le libre 
accès de leurs véhicules dans tout le territoire de la Communauté. 
V. Y-a-t-il des mesures spéciales pour les PME ? Non. 
- lesouelles ? 
VI. Quel est l'effet prévisible : 
- sur la compétitivité des entreprises ? 
pas d'effet prévisible. 
- sur l'emploi ? 
pas d'effet prévisible. 
VII. Les partenaires sociaux ont-ils été consultés ? Oui 
- Avis des partenaires sociaux : Favorable. 


ISSN 0254-1475 
COM(91) 239 final 
DOCUMENTS 
EN 07 
Catalogue number : CB-CO-91-290-EN-C 
ISBN 92-77-73882-0 
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities 
L-2985 Luxembourg