PROPOSAL FOR A COUNCIL DIRECTIVE RELATING TO THE MASSES AND DIMENSIONS OF CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS
Date: 1991-07-08
Institutions: European Commission
Subjects: commercial vehicle, motor vehicle, technical standard, weight and size

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) 

ïfffr 

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. 

- 1 -

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 , 

in cooperation with the European Parliament , 

2 

having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee , 

3 

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 

their trailers , as last amended 
their trailers , as last amended by Directive 87/403/EEC , to be applied in 
respect of each type of vehicle; 

5 

4 
4 

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 

-  2 -

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. 

- 4 -

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. 

-  5  -

ANNEX  I 

1. 

Scope 

This  d i r e c t i ve  a p p l i es 

to 

t he  m a s s es  and  d i m e n s i o ns  of  motor  v e h i c l es  of 

c a t e g o ry  M  ,  M 

and  N  and  t h e ir 

t r a i l e rs  of  c a t e g o ry  0,  as  d e f i n ed 

in 

Annex  I 

to  D i r e c t i ve  70/156/EEC. 

2* 

D e f i n i t i o ns 

2 . 1.  Motor  v e h i c le  means  any  power  d r i v en  v e h i c le  as  d e f i n ed 

in  Annex  I 

to 

D i r e c t i ve  70/156/EEC. 

2 . 2. 

T r a i l er  means  any  v e h i c l e,  as  d e f i n ed 

in  Annex  I 

to  D i r e c t i ve 

70/156/EEC, 

to  be  c o u p l ed 

to  a  motor  v e h i c l e,  w i th 

t he  e x c l u s i on  of 

s e m i - t r a i l e r s; 

2 . 2 .1  S e m i - t r a i l er  means  a  towed  v e h i c le 

in  which 

t he  a x l e ( s) 

is 

( a r e) 

p o s i t i o n ed  b e h i nd  t he  c e n t re  of  g r a v i ty  of 

t he  v e h i c le 

(when  u n i f o r m ly 

l o a d e d)  and  which 

is  e q u i p p ed  w i th  a  c o n n e c t i ng  d e v i ce  p e r m i t t i ng 

h o r i z o n t al  and  v e r t i c al 

f o r c es 

to  be  t r a n s m i t t ed 

to  t he  d r a w i ng  v e h i c le 

( t r a c t i ve  u n i t ); 

a  s u b s t a n t i al  mass  of 

t he  s e m i - t r a i l er 

is  c a r r i ed  by 

t he  t r a c t i ve  u n i t. 

2 . 2 .2  F u ll 

t r a i l er  means  a  towed  v e h i c le  h a v i ng  at 

l e a st 

two  a x l e s,  and 

e q u i p p ed  w i th  a  t o w i ng  d e v i ce  which  can  move  v e r t i c a l ly 

( in  r e l a t i on 

to 

t he 

t r a i l e r)  and  c o n t r o ls 

t he  d i r e c t i on  of 

t he  f r o nt  a x l e ( s ),  b ut  which 

t r a n s m i ts  no  s i g n i f i c a nt  s t a t ic 

l o ad 

to 

t he  d r a w i ng  v e h i c l e. 

2 . 2 .3  C e n t r e - a x le 

t r a i l er  means  a  towed  v e h i c le  e q u i p p ed  w i th  a  t o w i ng  d e v i ce 

which  c a n n ot  move  v e r t i c a l ly 

( in  r e l a t i on 

to 

t he 

t r a i l e r ),  and 

in  which 

t he  a x l e ( s) 

is 

( a r e)  p o s i t i o n ed  c l o se 

to 

t he  c e n t re  of  g r a v i ty  of 

t he 

v e h i c le 

(when  u n i f o r m ly 

l o a d e d)  such 

t h at  o n ly  a  s m a ll  s t a t ic  v e r t i c al 

l o a d,  n ot  e x c e e d i ng  10%  of 

t h at  c o r r e s p o n d i ng 

to 

t he  maximum  mass  of 

t he 

t r a i l er  or 

l o ad  of  1000  daN  ( w h i c h e v er 

is 

t he 

l e s s e r) 

is 

t r a n s m i t t ed 

to 

t he  d r a w i ng  v e h i c l e. 

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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. 

7 -

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. 

4. 

EEC type-approval 

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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  v e h i c le  and  a r t i c u l a t ed  bus  must  be  able  to  turn  within  a 

swept  c i r c le  having  an  o u t er  r a d i us  of  12.50  m and  an  inner  r a d i us  of 

5.30  m.This  requirement  a l so  a p p l i es  to  a ll  a r t i c u l a t ed  v e h i c l es  and 

road 

t r a i n s. 

- 9 -

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. 

-  10  -

Motor  v e h i c l es  towing  a  t r a i l er  without  a  s e r v i ce  braking  device  s h a l l, 

with  t he  engine  disconnected,  provide  a  s e r v i ce  b r a k i ng  c a p a b i l i ty 

e q u i v a l e nt 

to  the  requirements  of  the  type-0  t e st  r e l a t ed 

to 

d e c e l e r a t i on  of  t he  braking  D i r e c t i ve  71/320/EEC. 

7 . 3.  T r a i l e rs  to  be  coupled  to  motor  v e h i c l es  of  category  M  and  M_ 

Only  s i n g le  a x le  or  tandem  a x l e - t r a i l e rs  are  p e r m i t t ed  to  be  coupled 

to 

motor  v e h i c l es  of  category  M  and  M  for  the  purpose  of 

luggage 

t r a n s p o r t a t i o n.  The  p r o v i s i o ns  of  point  7.1  and  7.2  a re  applied 

a c c o r d i n g l y. 

7 . 4.  V e r t i c al 

load  on  the  coupling  of  motor  v e h i c l es 

The  t e c h n i c a l ly  permissible  maximum  v e r t i c al 

load  on  t he  coupling  device 

s h a ll  be  taken  i n to  account  when  the  maximum  a u t h o r i z ed  mass  of 

the 

v e h i c le  and  i ts  r e ar  a x l e ( s) 

is  determined. 

In  t he  case  of  c e n t r e - a x le  t r a i l e rs 

the  maximum  a u t h o r i z ed  v e r t i c al 

load 

on  t he  coupling  of  a  motor  v e h i c l e, 

t r a n s f e r r ed  by  t he  towing  device  of 

the  t r a i l er 

(when  uniformally 

loaded)  s h a ll  not  exceed  10%  of 

the 

maximum  mass  of  t he  t r a i l er  or  1,000  kg; 

the  lower  value  s h a ll  a p p l y. 

The  manufacturer  s h a ll  specify 

t he  c o n d i t i o ns  for  t he  attachment  of 

the 

coupling  device  to  t he  motor  v e h i c l e,  e s p e c i a l ly  t he  r e ar  overhang  of 

the  a t t a c h m e n t. 

8. 

H i l l - s t a r t i ng  a b i l i ty 

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. 

-  11 -

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. 

- 12 -

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 

F = 

K 

C2 

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 

-  13  -

measuring  t he  h e i g h ts  of  s u c c e s s i ve  peaks  of  t he  o s c i l l a t i on 

in  the  same 

d i r e c t i o n.  If 

t he  peak  amplitudes  of  t he  f i r st  and  second  c y c l es  of 

t he 

o s c i l l a t i on  a re  A  and  A  ,  then  t he  damping  r a t io  D  is 

C

IA 

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 

15 

-

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  t he  c a se  of  m i c r o - p r o c e s s or  c o n t r o l l ed 
f u n c t i o ns  s u p p ly  r e l e v a nt  p e r f o r m a n c e - r e l a t ed 
i n f o r m a t i o n. 

0.  GENERAL 

0.1 

Make  (trade name of manufacturer): 

0.2 

0.3 

Type and commercial  description  (mention any variants): 

Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle 

(b) 

0.3.1  Location of that marking: 

Category of vehicle 

(c) 
: 

Name  and  address  of  manufacturer: 

Name  and  address  of  manufacturer's  authorized 

r e p r e s e n t a t i ve 

( 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. ... 

0.4 

0.5 

0.6 

0.7 

0.8 

Footnotes, see Annex I to Directive 70/156/EEC, as last amended by Directive 

90/ 

/EEC  (doc. 111/4141/88 Rev.2) 

1. GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VEHICLE 

- 16 -

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): 

2.  MASSES  AND  DIMENSIONS 

( in k g,  mm  a nd a n g l e s) 

( r e f er  to  d r a w i ng  where 

(e) 

a p p l i c a b l e) 

2.1  Wheel  base(s)  (fully  loaded) 

(f  ) 
;: 
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 

2.2.1  Fifth wheel lead  (maximum and minimum)  & : 

(a) 

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 . U U 1 V LI  JL 

- 17 -

2.4  Range of vehicle dimensions  (overall) 

2.4.1  For chassis without bodywork 

For chassis wit* 

2.4.1.1  Length 

(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 

footnote v  '): 

(c  ) 

2 . 4 . 1 .7  Distance  between  a x l es  ( if  m u l t i - a x l e d ): 

2 . 4 .2  For  c h a s s is  with  bodywork 

For  c h a s s is  witl 

( J) 

2 . 4 . 2 .1  Length 
2 . 4 . 2 .2  Width 
2 . 4 . 2 . 2 .1  Width  of  t he  bodywork  of  a  r e f r i g e r a t ed  v e h i c le 

v 

: 

(k) 
: 

2 . 4 . 2 .3  Height  (unladen) 

(For  suspension  a d j u s t a b le 

for 

h e i g h t, 

i n d i c a te  normal  running  p o s i t i o n ): 

2 . 4 . 2 .4  Front  overhang 

: 

2.4.2.2.1 Approach (n) angle  (para. 4.5.1. of footnote 

(c) 

): 

2 . 4 . 2 .5  Rear  overhang 

: 

2 . 4 . 2 . 5 .1  Departure  angle  ( p a r a.  4 . 5 . 2.  of  footnote 

(c) 

): 

2 . 4 . 2 .6  Ground  c l e a r a n ce  (As  defined 

in  p a r a.  4 . 5 . 4.  of 

footnote 

( ch 

): 

2.4.2.6.1 Ramp angle  (para. 4.5.3. of footnote 

(c) 

): 

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 

( i n c l u d i ng  c o o l a n t,  o i l s,  f u e l, 

t o o l s,  spare  wheel  and  d r i v e r) 

(  n  ) 
: 

2 . 6 .1  D i s t r i b u t i on  of  t h is  mass  among  the  a x l es  and, 

in  the  case  of  a 

s e m i - t r a i l e r, 

load  on  t he  f i f th  wheel  king  p i n: 

2.7  Minimum  mass  of  the  v e h i c le  as  s t a t ed  by  t he  manufacturer: 

2 . 7 .1  D i s t r i b u t i on  of  t h is  mass  among  the  a x l es  and, 

in  t he  case  of  a 

s e m i - t r a i l e r, 

load  on  the  f i f th  wheel  king  p i n: 

18  -

2.8  Technically  p e r m i s s i b le  maximum  laden  mass  s t a t ed  by  t he 

manufacturer: 

2 . 8 .1  D i s t r i b u t i on  of  t h is  mass  among  the  a x l es  and, 

in 

the  case  of 

a  s e m i - t r a i l e r, 

load  on  t he  f i f th  wheel  king  p i n: 

2.9  Technically  permissible  maximum  mass  on  each  axle  and,  in  t he  case  of 

a  s e m i - t r a i l e r, 

load  on  t he  f i f th  wheel  king  pin  s t a t ed  by  t he 

manufacturer: 

2.10  Maximum  mass  of  t r a i l er  which  may  be  coupled 

2 . 1 0 .1  F u ll 

t r a i l e r: 

2.10.2  S e m i - t r a i l e r: 

2 . 1 0 .3  Centre-axle  t r a i l e r: 

i n d i c a te  t he  maximum  r a t io  of  t he  coupling 

overhang 

to  t he  wheelbase: 

2 . 1 0 .4  Maximum  mass  of  t he  combination: 

2 . 1 0 .5  Vehicle  i s / is  n ot 

s u i t a b le  for 

towing 

loads 

2 . 1 0 .6  Maximum  mass  of  unbraked 

t r a i l e r: 

2.11  Maximum  v e r t i c al 

load  at  t he  t r a i l er  coupling  p o i nt  for  o t h er  than 

the 

f i f th  wheel  king  p i n: 

2.12  Swept  p a t h: 

2.13  Engine  power/maximum  mass  r a t io  (in  kW/kg): 

2.14  H i l l - s t a r t i ng  a b i l i t y: 

2.15  Gradient-climbing  a b i l i ty  (off-road  v e h i c l e ):  % 

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 

f i t t ed 

6 . 2 .1  D i s t r i b u t i on  of  t y r es  to  a x l es  and  permitted  t y re  combinations: 

6 . 2 .2  Range  of  t y re  s i z e s: 

6 . 2 .3  Upper  and  lower  l i m i ts  of  r o l l i ng  r a d i i: 

6 . 2 .4  Tyre  p r e s s u r e ( s)  as  recommended  by  t he  v e h i c le 

manufacturer: 

kPa 

6 . 2 .5  Tyre/wheel  c o m b i n a t i o n ( s ): 

6 . 2 .6  Chain/tyre  combination(s)  and  a x l e ( 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 the materials and dimensions): 
characteristics of 

t\ 

6.5  Stabilisers  : yes/no 

(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  I II 

M O D EL 
(maximum  f o r m a t:  A4  (210  x  297 mm)) 

EEC  TYPE-APPROVAL  CERTIFICATE 
( v e h i c l e) 

STAMP  OF 

ADMINISTRATION 

1 

Communication  c o n c e r n i ng  t he 

- 

t y p e - a p p r o v al 

-  e x t e n s i on  of 

- 

r e f u s al  of 

t y p e - a p p r o v al 

t y p e - a p p r o v al 
1 

of  a  t y pe  of  a  v e h i c le  w i th  r e g a rd 

to  D i r e c t i ve 

r e l a t i ng 

to  t he 

m a s s es  and  d i m e n s i o ns  of  motor  v e h i c l es  and  t h e ir 

t r a i l e rs 

EEC  t y p e - a p p r o v al  No.  : 

E x t e n s i on  No.  : 

SECTION  I 

0 .1  Make  (name  of  u n d e r t a k i n g ): 

0 .2 

Type  and  commercial  d e s c r i p t i on 

( m e n t i on  any  v a r i a n t s ): 

0 .3  Means  of 

i d e n t i f i c a t i on  of 

t y p e, 

if  marked  on  t he  v e h i c le 

: 

0 . 3 .1  L o c a t i on  of  t h at  m a r k i ng 

C a t e g o ry  of  v e h i c le 

3 

: 

0 .4 

0 .5 

0 .6 

Name  and  a d d r e ss  of  m a n u f a c t u r e r: 

Name  a nd  a d d r e ss  of  m a n u f a c t u r e r 's  a u t h o r i z ed 

r e p r e s e n t a t i ve 

( if  a n y ): 

1  D e l e te  where 
2  The  means  of  i d e n t i f i c a t i on  of  t y p e, 

i n a p p l i c a b le 

if  used,  s h a ll  appear  only  on  t h o se 

v e h i c l es  covered  by  t he  i n d i v i d u al  d i r e c t i ve  a p p r o v a l.  If  t he  means  of 
i d e n t i f i c a t i on  of  type  c o n t a i ns  c h a r a c t e rs  not  r e l e v a nt  to  d e s c r i be 
v e h i c le  t y p es  covered  by  t h is  t y p e - a p p r o v al  c e r t i f i c a t e,  such  c h a r a c t e rs 
s h a ll  be  r e p r e s e n t ed 
( e . g.  ABC??123??). 

in  t he  documentation  by  t he  symbol  " ?" 

t he 

3  As  defined  by  f o o t n o te  (c)  of  Annex  I  to  D i r e c t i ve  70/156/EEC 

-  21  -

SECTION  II 

1. 

Additional  information 

1.1  Length  (overall) 

1.2  Width  (overall) 

1.3  Height  (overall) 

1.4  Max.  authorized  mass  of  the  vehicle 

1.4.1  Technically  permissible  max.  mass  of  the  vehicle 

1.5  Max.  authorized  masses  on  the  axles 

1 . 5 . 1 1.  Axle 

2.  Axle 

3.  Axle 

4.  Axle 

1.6 

Technically  permissible  max.  masses  on  the  axles 

1 . 6 . 1 1.  Axle 

2.  Axle 

3.  Axle 

4.  Axle 

1.7 

Technically  permissible  max.  load  on  the  fifth  wheel 

kingpin  X 

1.8  Max.  authorized  towable  mass  of  the  motor  vehicle 

1.8.1  Trailer  with  service  brakes 

1.8.2  Trailer  without  service  brakes 

1.9  Max.  vertical  load  on  the  coupling  device 

m 

m 

m 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

t 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 

Technical  department  responsible  for  carrying  out  the  t e s t s: 

Date  of  t e st  report: 

Number  of  t e st  report: 

Ground(s)  for  extending  type-approval  (where  appropriate): 

Comments  (if  any): 

Place: 

Date: 

Signature: 

10.  A l i st  of  documents  making  up  the  type-approval  f i le  lodged  with 

the  administrative  department  that  has  granted  type-approval, 

which  may  be  obtained  on  request,  is  attached. 

FICHE D'IMPACT SUR LA COMPETITIVITE ET L'EMPLOI 

M 

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