Towbars
and the Law
European law states that all light
passenger vehicles registered on or
after 1st August 1998 require a type
approved towbar tested
to EC94/20 standard and towball with suitable D & S value.
This is not retrospective and does not affect any vehicle registered
prior to that date. Other vehicles not subject to type approval
are commercial vehicles, car derived vans and motor caravans. Type
approval towbars are tested and approved by the Vehicle Certification
Agency (VCA).
Towbar
Quality Standards
Towbars are
designed with the aid of the latest CAD systems
to ensure precision of mounting, ease of
fit and unobtrusive appearance. In addition,
all towbars comply with international standard
ISO 1102 and British Standard BS AU 113 which
specifies the dimensions and locations of
towball to ensure a safe and level towing
height of between 350mm and 420mm (ground
to centre of towball).
Electrics
Quality Standards
With effect from 1st October 2002 all towing electrics fitted to
type approved vehicles manufactured after 1st January 1996 must
be tested and conform to EC95/54 standard for electromagnetic compatibility.
Commercial vehicles are exempt from these regulations. |
