Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Metric Conversion

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

49 CFR Part 571

[Docket No. 93-87; Notice 2]

RIN 2127-AF03

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Metric Conversion

AGENCY: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule amends selected Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standards (FMVSS) by converting English measurements specified in those

standards to metric measurements. This rulemaking is the first of

several that NHTSA will undertake to implement the statutory Federal

policy that the metric system is the preferred system of weights and

measures for U.S. trade and commerce. The conversions are not intended

to change the stringency of the affected FMVSS.

DATES: This final rule is effective March 14, 1996. Optional early

compliance with the changes made in this final rule is permitted

beginning March 14, 1995.

Petitions for reconsideration of this final rule must be filed by

April 13, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Petitions for reconsideration of this final rule should

refer to the docket and notice number cited in the heading of this

final rule and be submitted to: Administrator, National Highway Traffic

Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.

It is requested but not required, that 10 copies be submitted.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Kevin Cavey, National Highway

Traffic Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC

20590. Mr. Cavey's telephone number is: (202) 366-5271.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 5164 of the Omnibus Trade and

Competitiveness Act (Pub. L. 100-418), makes it United States policy

that the metric system of measurement is the [[Page 13640]] preferred

system of weights and measures for U.S. trade and commerce. Through

Executive Order 12770, Federal agencies were directed to comply with

the Act by adopting a conversion schedule for their programs by

September 30, 1992. In the April 21, 1992 Federal Register (57 FR

14619), NHTSA published for comment its plan to use the metric system

in NHTSA programs and included an implementation schedule to convert

the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSSs). NHTSA projected

simple FMVSS conversions would be completed by June 1994, intermediate

conversions by December 1996, and the most complex conversions by

December 1997. NHTSA described how it would convert English

measurements in the FMVSSs to metric measurements.

In response to the plan, NHTSA received five public comments. NHTSA

took all comments into consideration in drafting a notice of proposed

rulemaking (NPRM) to convert English measurements in selected FMVSS to

metric measurements.

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

NHTSA published on March 15, 1994 (59 FR 11962) a proposal

identifying the standards for which NHTSA believed conversions of

English measurements to metric measurements would be simple and

proposed the appropriate conversions to the metric system. English

measurements in the following Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

(49 CFR 571 et seq.) were proposed to be converted to the metric

system: Standard No. 102, Transmission shift lever sequence, starter

interlock, and transmission braking effect; Standard No. 103,

Windshield defrosting and defogging systems; Standard No. 104,

Windshield wiping and washing systems; Standard No. 107, Reflecting

surfaces; Standard No. 110, Tire selection and rims; Standard No. 112,

Headlamp concealment devices; Standard No. 114, Theft protection;

Standard No. 115, Vehicle identification number--basic requirements;

Standard No. 120, Tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than

passenger cars; Standard No. 124, Accelerator control systems; Standard

No. 126, Truck-camper loading; Standard No. 205, Glazing materials;

Standard No. 206, Door locks and door retention components; Standard

No. 207, Seating systems; Standard No. 212, Windshield mounting; and

Standard No. 216, Roof crush resistance.

In the NPRM, NHTSA highlighted three issues for public comment:

whether conversions should be exact or equivalent; how consumer

information in labels should be converted; and how force measurements

should be converted.

Because using values stated in integers would make it easier to

make measurements in compliance testing, NHTSA proposed to favor

equivalent conversions, not exact conversions. To illustrate the

difference between equivalent and exact conversions, an equivalent

conversion of two inches would be 50 millimeters, while an exact

conversion would be 50.8 millimeters. NHTSA asked the commenters to

indicate any instance in which they believed that an equivalent

conversion might have a substantive effect on a standard, and requested

that the commenters suggest in those instances an exact conversion.

With respect to those requirements for which manufacturers have

invested in molds and other equipment that produce lettering of very

precise sizes, NHTSA proposed exact conversions so that manufacturers

would not have to buy new equipment. NHTSA also proposed exact

conversions for gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) measurements, speed

measurements in Standard No. 110, Tire selection and rims, and weight

load measurements in Standard No. 212, Windshield mounting and

retention.

The agency also sought comment on proposed metric conversions of

consumer safety information in labels. Certain FMVSSs require labels

that state consumer safety information in English measurements. NHTSA

was uncertain whether labels with quantitative information stated

solely in metric measurements would be understood by American

consumers. Therefore, in those instances in which labels or other

information are required for consumers' benefit, NHTSA proposed that

both the English and metric units be provided. The labels for which

dual measurements were proposed were those required by Std. No. 110,

Tire selection and rims, Std. No. 120, Tire selection and rims for

motor vehicles other than passenger cars, and Std. No. 126, Truck-

camper loading. NHTSA also stated its intent to eventually phase out

the English measurements on those labels.

Standards Nos. 207, Seating systems and 216, Roof crush resistance

establish strength requirements for occupant seats and for the

passenger compartment roof, respectively. The force measurements

specified in the standards are straightforward enough when stated in

English units, since both weight and force are expressed in pounds.

However, the metric system expresses mass in kilograms and force in

newtons. Consequently, when force pounds are converted to newtons, the

force pounds should be multiplied by 4.448. Thus, in converting Stds.

Nos. 207 and 216's English system force measurements to the metric

system, NHTSA proposed to specify the steps of the conversion in the

regulatory text to minimize the chance of a conversion error.

NHTSA also announced that, in the future, it would convert values

(expressed in English measurements) in documents incorporated by

reference into the FMVSS, to the metric system, on a document-by-

document basis.

Public Comments on the NPRM and NHTSA's Responses

In response to the NPRM, NHTSA received comments from 17

commenters. The commenters generally favored the overall philosophy

that NHTSA indicated it would follow in converting English measurements

in the FMVSSs to metric measurements. Comments on specific English to

metric conversions were offered.

1. ``Exact'' v. ``Equivalent'' Conversions

In general, the commenters agreed with NHTSA's proposal to use

equivalent, not exact, conversions. However, several commenters favored

exact conversions. Flxible Corporation preferred exact conversions,

explaining that making equivalent conversions in some instances and

exact conversions in others could cause confusion. The National Truck

Equipment Association (NTEA) stated that exact conversions should be

used to eliminate the possibility of a standard's effectiveness being

diminished. However, since neither Flxible nor NTEA cited specific

instances in which making equivalent conversions instead of exact

conversions would cause confusion or would lessen a standard's

effectiveness, NHTSA is not adopting their recommendations.

With respect to the conversion of some requirements, commenters

favored exact conversions and sometimes provided reasons. Ford and

Thomas Built Buses expressed a strong preference for the 10,000 lb.

gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for vehicles to be converted to 4536

kg. Thomas Built stated that the 36 kg. difference between the exact

(4536 kg.) and equivalent (4500 kg.) conversions could determine

whether many of their vehicles, particularly school buses, are subject

to certain safety standards. Since vehicle GVWR seems to be an instance

in which there would be a substantive change if exact conversions were

not made in this final rule, NHTSA is (as proposed) converting GVWRs of

10,000 lbs. to 4536 kg. and GVWRs of 6,000 lbs. to 2722 kg.

[[Page 13641]]

Nissan stated that in Std. No. 104, Windshield wiping and washing

systems, and Std. No. 216, Roof crush resistance, one inch should be

converted to the exact value of 25.4 millimeters, not the equivalent

value of 25 millimeters proposed in the NPRM. Nissan also stated that

in S4. of Std. No. 216, the movement of the test device should be

limited to 127 millimeters, not the 125 millimeters proposed in the

NPRM. Since Nissan did not explain why the equivalent conversions

proposed for Stds. Nos. 104 and 216 would make substantive changes,

NHTSA is not adopting Nissan's suggestion to use the exact conversions.

Volkswagen recommended that NHTSA's metric conversions be made in

such a manner that they result in the same values as those in the

comparable parts of the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

(CMVSS). As stated in the NPRM, NHTSA will make conversions in

accordance with SAE guideline J916 May 1991, and Federal Standard 376B

``Preferred Metric Units for General Use by the Federal Government.''

Where consistent with these two documents, and if the changes do not

make substantive changes to the safety standards, NHTSA will make

conversions consistent with the CMVSS.

The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) and Ford

recommended that, to be consistent with the CMVSS, in Std. No. 110,

Tire selection and rims, 60 mph be converted to the equivalent

measurement of 100 km/h, not the exact measurement of 97 km/h proposed

in the NPRM. However, Chrysler commented that there is a significant

difference between 97 km/h and 100 km/h, and that therefore the exact

conversion of 97 km/h should be used. Based on Chrysler's comment that

there would be a substantive change in Std. No. 110 if an equivalent

conversion of 100 km/h were adopted, NHTSA is converting 60 mph to 97

km/h.

2. ``Mass'' v. ``Weight''

Commenters noted that kilograms are measures of ``mass,'' not

``weight.'' Thus, they recommended that all NPRM references to

``weight'' be changed to ``mass.'' NHTSA acknowledges that commenters

on this issue are technically correct. Thus, in instances in which the

safety standards use ``weight'' to mean ``mass'' in describing

compliance testing conditions and procedures, or in other instances in

which the standards are primarily directed to engineers or other

technically trained persons, NHTSA is revising ``weight'' in the

regulatory text to ``mass.'' As an example, in a test specified in Std.

No. 207, NHTSA proposed that the load applied be 20 times the

``weight'' of the seat. In the final rule, Std. No. 207 is amended to

refer to the ``mass'' of the seat.

However, in instances in which the word ``weight'' is part of a

term defined at 49 CFR part 571.3, such as ``curb weight,'' ``gross

axle weight rating,'' ``gross vehicle weight rating,'' or ``unloaded

vehicle weight,'' NHTSA is not making the change. In the NPRM, since

NHTSA did not propose to amend the terms, adopting the terms ``curb

mass,'' ``gross axle mass rating,'' or ``gross vehicle mass rating,''

is outside the scope of this rulemaking. NHTSA will consider amending

these terms using ``mass'' in future rulemakings to metrify the safety

standards.

NHTSA is also concerned about the effect of changing from ``mass''

to ``weight.'' For example, it is not known whether the general public

would be confused by use of the phrase ``Camper mass is ______ kg''

rather than ``Camper weight,'' specified in Std. No. 126. In addition,

the States use terms such as gross vehicle ``weight'' rating as the

basis for determining which vehicle registration fees, driver's

licensing requirements, and restrictions on use of roads are applicable

to particular vehicles. Before making a change from ``weight'' to

``mass,'' NHTSA wants to obtain public comment and will propose any

such changes in future metrication rulemakings.

3. Consumer Information

In general, the commenters favored NHTSA's proposal to use dual

English and metric measurements for information intended for consumers.

Mr. Lawrence Stempnik noted that the technically correct abbreviations

for units of measurement were not provided in Std. No. 126, Truck-

camper loading. The California Highway Patrol commented that the units

of measurement are intended to provide safety information, not a

``metric conversion educational program.'' NHTSA agrees that there

should be no ambiguity in the metric units of measurement on labels

that provide safety information to consumers. If unfamiliar terms are

spelled out instead of abbreviated, there is less ambiguity and

confusion. Thus, NHTSA is not adopting Mr. Stempnik's suggestion for

the use of abbreviations, and is instead specifying the units of

measurement as ``Liters'' and ``cubic meters,'' as proposed, rather

than the abbreviations ``L'' and ``m\3\.''

NIST recommended that dual labeling in English and metric units be

required for only a limited time, but did not recommend a particular

duration for that requirement. In the future, when consumers are

familiar with metric measurements and there is no safety need for

continuing to provide English measurements on labels, NHTSA expects to

phase out the requirement for English measurements.

Mack Trucks and the National Truck Equipment Association had

recommendations for metric conversions of certification labels

specified in 49 CFR parts 567 and 568. Since the NPRM did not propose

changes to parts 567 or 568, these conversions are outside the scope of

this rulemaking. However, NHTSA will take these comments into

consideration during its review of parts 567 and 568 for conversion to

metric measurements.

4. Force Measurements

NHTSA proposed to convert force measurements in Std. No. 207,

Seating systems, and Std. No. 216, Roof crush resistance, by specifying

the steps of the conversion in the regulatory language. Except for the

earlier discussed recommendation to specify ``mass'' instead of

``weight,'' commenters generally agreed with NHTSA's proposal to

specify force measurements in terms of kilograms multiplied by 9.8 to

obtain newtons of force. For Stds. Nos. 207 and 216, NIST recommended

that the kilograms be multiplied by 10 (rather than 9.8) to facilitate

calculations of force. NIST's recommendation will not be adopted

because NHTSA is not certain that use of a multiplier of 10 would not

substantively change the stringency of tests specified in Stds. Nos.

207 and 216.

Thus, in the final rule, for Std. No. 207, NHTSA amends the force

measurement language to provide that the seat shall be subjected to a

force in newtons equal to 20 times the mass of the seat, measured in

kilograms and multiplied by 9.8. For Std. No. 216, NHTSA amends the

force measurement language to provide that the vehicle roof shall be

subjected to a force in newtons equal to 1\1/2\ times the vehicle mass,

measured in kilograms and multiplied by 9.8.

5. Use of Incorporated Documents

In addressing whether values in incorporated documents should be

converted, commenters urged NHTSA not to convert English measurements

in outdated or superseded SAE Recommended Practices or standards, but

to adopt the most recent SAE standards, which often specify metric

measurements. NHTSA notes that the comments go beyond the scope of this

rulemaking. Nevertheless, when NHTSA decides, on a document by document

[[Page 13642]] basis, whether to convert incorporated documents to the

metric system, it will consider these views.

Effective Date

Chrysler recommended that the metrication changes take effect one

year after issuance of the final rule. Chrysler stated that this lead

time was necessary so that manufacturers could make the changes, taking

into account that label manufacturers ``serve all of the vehicle

manufacturers.'' NHTSA concurs that because this final rule will result

in many manufacturers having to change labels, a one year lead time is

appropriate. Thus, this final rule will take effect one year after it

is published in the Federal Register. Manufacturers at their option,

may comply with the amendments made by this final rule before the

effective date.

Rulemaking Analyses and Notices

1. Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

This action was not reviewed under E. O. 12866, ``Regulatory

Planning and Review.'' NHTSA has considered the impact of this

rulemaking action under the Department of Transportation's regulatory

policies and procedures and determined that it is not ``significant.''

In converting the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards from the

English to the metric system, the agency makes conversions that do not

substantively change the performance requirements of the FMVSSs. In

complying with this final rule, manufacturers providing consumer

information (e.g., labeling) may incur one time, additional costs since

they would have to change their information to add the metric units.

However, the agency believes that the additional costs would be

minuscule, since manufacturers already provide consumer information in

English units.

NHTSA determines that new labeling requirements in the following

three standards would result in minor costs to manufacturers. For

Standards Nos. 110 and 120, NHTSA estimates that changing the molds of

non-pneumatic tires would initially cost $300,000 per year for the

industry, or a few cents per tire. After the initial changes in the

molds, further costs would be negligible. For Standard No. 120, NHTSA

estimates that requiring the tire information label to have both

English and metric units would increase costs by about one cent per

motor vehicle, for vehicles other than passenger cars. The total cost

to industry is approximately $62,000 for the 6.2 million vehicles sold

in 1994. For Standard No. 126, since there are only 10,000 truck

campers sold per year, changes to the truck-camper loading label will

cost more than a few cents per label, but NHTSA estimates the total

cost to industry will be less than $10,000 a year. In sum, NHTSA

estimates that the total costs resulting from changes made by this

final rule are $372,000.

For these reasons, NHTSA determines the impacts of this action are

so minor that a full regulatory evaluation for this final rule is not

necessary.

2. Small Entity Impacts

The agency has also considered the effects of this rulemaking

action under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). I

certify that this final rule would not have a significant economic

impact on a substantial number of small entities. The rationale for

this certification is that converting the FMVSS from the English system

to the metric system does not make any substantive change to the

performance requirements of any of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standards. Manufacturers that qualify as small businesses that do not

now label their products in metric units or provide consumer

information in metric units will incur some slight costs to include

metric units. However, the agency believes such costs would be minimal,

given these manufacturers are currently labeling and providing the

consumer information in English units.

3. Environmental Impacts

In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,

the agency has considered the environmental impacts of this rule and

determined that, it will not have a significant impact on the quality

of the human environment.

4. Federalism

This action has been analyzed in accordance with the principles and

criteria contained in Executive Order 12612, and it has been determined

that the rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to

warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

5. Civil Justice Reform

This final rule will not have any retroactive effect. Under 49

U.S.C. section 30103, whenever a Federal motor vehicle safety standard

is in effect, a state may not adopt or maintain a safety standard

applicable to the same aspect of performance which is not identical to

the Federal standard. 49 U.S.C. section 30161 sets forth a procedure

for judicial review of final rules establishing, amending or revoking

Federal motor vehicle safety standards. That section does not require

submission of a petition for reconsideration or other administrative

proceedings before parties may file suit in court.

List of Subjects in 49 CFR Part 571

Imports, Motor vehicle safety, Motor vehicles, Rubber and rubber

products, Tires.

In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standards (49 CFR part 571), are amended as set forth below.

PART 571--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS

1. The authority citation for part 571 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 30111, 30115, 30117, and 30166;

delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.

Sec. 571.102 [Amended]

2. Section 571.102 is amended by revising S1 and S3.1.2 to read as

follows:

Sec. 571.102 Standard No. 102, Transmission shift lever sequence,

starter interlock, and transmission braking effect.

S1. Purpose and scope. This standard specifies the requirements for

the transmission shift lever sequence, a starter interlock, and for a

braking effect of automatic transmissions, to reduce the likelihood of

shifting errors, starter engagement with vehicle in drive position, and

to provide supplemental braking at speeds below 40 kilometers per hour.

* * * * *

S3.1.2 Transmission braking effect. In vehicles having more than

one forward transmission gear ratio, one forward drive position shall

provide a greater degree of engine braking than the highest speed

transmission ratio at vehicle speeds below 40 kilometers per hour.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.103 [Amended]

3. Section 571.103 is amended by revising S3; and, in S4.3,

revising paragraphs (b)(2)(ii), (e), (g), and (h), to read as follows:

Sec. 571.103 Standard No. 103, Windshield defrosting and defogging

systems.

* * * * *

S3. Definitions. Road load means the power output required to move

a given motor vehicle at curb weight plus 180 kilograms on level,

clean, dry, smooth portland cement concrete pavement (or other surface

with equivalent coefficient of surface friction) at a specified speed

through still air at 20 degrees Celsius, [[Page 13643]] and standard

barometric pressure (101.3 kilopascals) and includes driveline

friction, rolling friction, and air resistance.

* * * * *

S4.3 * * *

(b) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) The engine speed and load shall not exceed the speed and load

at 40 kilometers per hour in the manufacturer's recommended gear with

road load;

* * * * *

(e) One or two windows may be open a total of 25 millimeters;

(f) * * *

(g) The wind velocity is at any level from 0 to 3 kilometers per

hour.

(h) The test chamber temperature and the wind velocity shall be

measured, after the engine has been started, at the forwardmost point

of the vehicle or a point 914 millimeters from the base of the

windshield, whichever is farther forward, at a level halfway between

the top and bottom of the windshield on the vehicle centerline.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.104 [Amended]

4. Sec. 571.104 is amended by revising, in S3, the paragraph titled

``Glazing surface reference line;'' and revising S4.1.2, to read as

follows:

Sec. 571.104 Standard No. 104, Windshield wiping and washing systems.

* * * * *

S3 * * *

Glazing surface reference line means the line resulting from the

intersection of the glazing surface and a horizontal plane 625

millimeters above the seating reference point, as shown in Figure 1 of

SAE Recommended Practice J903a, ``Passenger Car Windshield Wiper

Systems,'' May 1966.

* * * * *

S4.1.2 Wiped area. When tested wet in accordance with SAE

Recommended Practice J903a, May 1966, each passenger car windshield

wiping system shall wipe the percentage of Areas A, B, and C of the

windshield (established in accordance with S4.1.2.1) that (1) is

specified in column 2 of the applicable table following subparagraph

S4.1.2.1 and (2) is within the area bounded by a perimeter line on the

glazing surface 25 millimeters from the edge of the daylight opening.

* * * * *

5. In Section 571.104, S4.1.2.1 is amended by revising the title of

Table I; the title of Table II; the title of Table III; and the title

of Table IV, to read as follows:

* * * * *

Table I--Passenger Cars of Less Than 1520 Millimeters in Overall Width

* * * * *

Table II--Passenger Cars of 1520 or More But Less Than 1630 Millimeters

in Overall Width

* * * * *

Table III--Passenger Cars of 1630 or More But Less Than 1730

Millimeters in Overall Width

* * * * *

Table IV--Passenger Cars of 1730 or More Millimeters in Overall Width

* * * * *

Sec. 571.110 [Amended]

6. Section 571.110 is amended by revising, in S3, the definitions

``Normal occupant weight,'' ``Production options weight,'' and

``Vehicle capacity weight;'' in S4.4.1, revising paragraph (b); in S6,

revising the introductory paragraph, and paragraph (b); and revising

S7.1, to read as follows:

571.110 Standard No. 110, Tire selection and rims.

* * * * *

S3. * * *

Normal occupant weight means 68 kilograms times the number of

occupants specified in the second column of Table I.

* * * * *

Production options weight means the combined weight of those

installed regular production options weighing over 2.3 kilograms in

excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously

considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty

brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim.

* * * * *

Vehicle capacity weight means the rated cargo and luggage load plus

68 kilograms times the vehicle's designated seating capacity.

* * * * *

S4.4.1 * * *

(b) In the event of rapid loss of inflation pressure with the

vehicle traveling in a straight line at a speed of 97 kilometers per

hour, retain the deflated tire until the vehicle can be stopped with a

controlled braking application.

* * * * *

S6 Labeling Requirements for Non-Pneumatic Spare Tires or Tire

Assemblies. Each non-pneumatic tire or, in the case of a non-pneumatic

tire assembly in which the non-pneumatic tire is an integral part of

the assembly, each non-pneumatic tire assembly shall include, in

letters or numerals not less than 4 millimeters high, the information

specified in paragraphs S6 (a) and (b). The information shall be

permanently molded, stamped, or otherwise permanently marked into or

onto the non-pneumatic tire or non-pneumatic tire assembly, or shall

appear on a label that is permanently attached to the tire or tire

assembly. If a label is used, it shall be subsurface printed, made of

material that is resistant to fade, heat, moisture and abrasion, and

attached in such a manner that it cannot be removed without destroying

or defacing the label on the non-pneumatic tire or tire assembly. The

information specified in paragraphs S6 (a) and (b) shall appear on both

sides of the non-pneumatic tire or tire assembly, except, in the case

of a non-pneumatic tire assembly which has a particular side that must

always face outward when mounted on a vehicle, in which case the

information specified in paragraphs S6 (a) and (b) shall only be

required on the outward facing side. The information shall be

positioned on the tire or tire assembly such that it is not placed on

the tread or the outermost edge of the tire and is not obstructed by

any portion of any non-pneumatic rim or wheel center member designated

for use with that tire in this standard or in Standard No. 129.

(a) * * *

(b) MAXIMUM 80 KM/H (50 M.P.H.).

* * * * *

S7.1 Vehicle Placarding Requirements. A placard, permanently

affixed to the inside of the vehicle trunk or an equally accessible

location adjacent to the non-pneumatic spare tire assembly, shall

display the information set forth in S6 in block capitals and numerals

not less than 6 millimeters high preceded by the words ``IMPORTANT--USE

OF SPARE TIRE'' in letters not less than 9 millimeters high.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.112 [Amended]

7. Section 571.112 is amended by revising S4.5 to read as follows:

Sec. 571.112 Standard No. 112, Headlamp concealment devices.

* * * * *

S4.5 Except for cases of malfunction covered by S4.2, each

headlamp concealment device shall, within an ambient temperature range

of -30 degrees Celsius to +50 degrees Celsius be capable of being fully

opened in not more than 3 seconds after actuation of the mechanism

described in S4.3.

* * * * * [[Page 13644]]

Sec. 571.114 [Amended]

8. Section 571.114 is amended by revising S2 and revising S4.1, to

read as follows:

Sec. 571.114 Standard No. 114, Theft protection.

* * * * *

S2. Application. This standard applies to passenger cars, and to

trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles having a GVWR of 4536

kilograms or less. However, it does not apply to walk-in van-type

vehicles.

* * * * *

S4.1 Each truck and multipurpose passenger vehicle having a GVWR

of 4536 kilograms or less manufactured on or after September 1, 1983

and each passenger car shall meet the requirements of S4.2, S4.3, S4.4,

and S4.5. However, open-body type vehicles that are manufactured for

operation without doors and that either have no doors or have doors

that are designed to be easily attached to and removed from the vehicle

by the vehicle owner are not required to comply with S4.5.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.115 [Amended]

9. Section 571.115 is amended by revising S4.6 to read as follows:

Sec. 571.115 Standard No. 115, Vehicle identification number--basic

requirements.

* * * * *

S4.6 The VIN for passenger cars, multipurpose passenger vehicles,

and trucks of 4536 kilograms or less GVWR shall be located inside the

passenger compartment. It shall be readable, without moving any part of

the vehicle, through the vehicle glazing under daylight lighting

conditions by an observer having 20/20 vision (Snellen) whose eye-point

is located outside the vehicle adjacent to the left windshield pillar.

Each character in the VIN subject to this paragraph shall have a

minimum height of 4 mm.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.118 [Amended]

10. Section 571.118 is amended by revising S2. to read as follows:

Sec. 571.118 Standard No. 118, Power-operated window, partition, and

roof panel systems.

* * * * *

S2. Application. This standard applies to passenger cars,

multipurpose passenger vehicles, and trucks with a gross vehicle weight

rating of 4536 kilograms or less. The standard's requirements for

power-operated roof panel systems need not be met for vehicles

manufactured before September 1, 1993.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.120 [Amended]

11. Section 571.120 is amended by revising the first sentence in

S5.1.2; revising in S5.2, the introductory paragraph; revising in S5.3,

the introductory paragraph; revising S5.3.2; revising in S7, the

introductory paragraph and paragraph (b); and revising S8.1, to read as

follows:

Sec. 571.120 Standard No. 120, Tire selection and rims for motor

vehicles other than passenger cars.

* * * * *

S5.1.2 Except in the case of a vehicle which has a speed

attainable in 3.2 kilometers of 80 kilometers per hour or less, the sum

of the maximum load ratings of the tires fitted to an axle shall be not

less than the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) of the axle system as

specified on the vehicle's certification label required by 49 CFR part

567. * * *

* * * * *

S5.2 Rim marking. On and after August 1, 1977, each rim or, at the

option of the manufacturer in the case of a singlepiece wheel, wheel

disc shall be marked with the information listed in paragraphs (a)

through (e) of this paragraph, in lettering not less than 3 millimeters

high, impressed to a depth or, at the option of the manufacturer,

embossed to a height of not less than 0.125 millimeters. The

information listed in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this paragraph

shall appear on the weather side. In the case of rims of multipiece

construction, the information listed in paragraphs (a) through (e) of

this paragraph shall appear on the rim base and the information listed

in paragraphs (b) and (d) of this paragraph shall also appear on each

other part of the rim.

* * * * *

S5.3 Label information. Each vehicle manufactured on or after

December 1, 1984, shall show the information specified in S5.3.1 and

S5.3.2, and in the case of a vehicle equipped with a non-pneumatic

spare tire, the information specified in S5.3.3, in the English

language, lettered in block capitals and numerals not less than 2.4

millimeters high and in the format set forth following this section.

This information shall appear either-

* * * * *

S5.3.2. Rims. The size designation and, if applicable, the type

designation of Rims (not necessarily those on the vehicle) appropriate

for those tires.

Truck Example--Suitable Tire-Rim Choice

GVWR: 7,840 kilograms (17280 pounds)

GAWR: Front--2,850 kilograms (6,280 pounds) with 7.50-20(D) tires,

20 x 6.00 rims at 520 kPa (75 psi) cold single

GAWR: Rear--4990 kilograms (11,000 pounds) with 7.50-20(D) tires, 20

x 6.00 rims, at 450 kPa (65 psi) cold dual

GAWR: 13,280 kilograms (29,279 pounds)

GAWR: Front--4,826 kilograms (10,640 pounds) with 10.00-20(F) tires,

20 x 7.50 rims, at 620 kPa (90 psi) cold single

GAWR: Rear--8,454 kilograms (18,639 pounds) with 10.00-20(F) tires,

20 x 7.50 rims, at 550 kPa (80 psi) cold dual.

* * * * *

S7 Labeling Requirements for Non-Pneumatic Spare Tires or Tire

Assemblies. Each non-pneumatic tire or, in the case of a non-pneumatic

tire assembly in which the non-pneumatic tire is an integral part of

the assembly, each non-pneumatic tire assembly shall include, in

letters or numerals not less than 4 millimeters high, the information

specified in paragraphs S7 (a) and (b). The information shall be

permanently molded, stamped, or otherwise permanently marked into or

onto the non-pneumatic tire or non-pneumatic tire assembly, or shall

appear on a label that is permanently attached to the tire or tire

assembly. If a label is used, it shall be subsurface printed, made of

material that is resistant to fade, heat, moisture and abrasion, and

attached in such a manner that it cannot be removed without destroying

or defacing the label on the non-pneumatic tire or tire assembly. The

information specified in paragraphs S7 (a) and (b) shall appear on both

sides of the non-pneumatic tire or tire assembly, except, in the case

of a non-pneumatic tire assembly which has a particular side that must

always face outward when mounted on a vehicle, in which case the

information specified in paragraphs S7 (a) and (b) shall only be

required on the outward facing side. The information shall be

positioned on the tire or tire assembly such that it is not placed on

the tread or the outermost edge of the tire and is not obstructed by

any portion of any non-pneumatic rim or wheel center member designated

for use with that tire in this standard or in Standard No. 129.

* * * * *

(b) MAXIMUM 80 KM/H (50 M.P.H.).

* * * * *

S8.1 Vehicle Placarding Requirements. A placard, permanently

affixed to the inside of the spare tire stowage area or equally

accessible location adjacent to the non-pneumatic spare tire assembly,

shall display the information set forth in S7 in block capitals and

numerals not less than 6 [[Page 13645]] millimeters high preceded by

the words ``IMPORTANT--USE OF SPARE TIRE'' in letters not less than 9

millimeters high.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.124 [Amended]

12. Section 571.124 is amended by revising S5 and revising S5.3 to

read as follows:

Sec. 571.124 Standard No. 124, Accelerator control systems.

* * * * *

S5. Requirements. The vehicle shall meet the following requirements

when the engine is running under any load condition, and at any ambient

temperature between -40 degrees Celsius and +52 degrees Celsius after

12 hours of conditioning at any temperature within that range.

* * * * *

S5.3 Except as provided below, maximum time to return to idle

position shall be 1 second for vehicles of 4536 kilograms or less GVWR,

and 2 seconds for vehicles of more than 4536 kilograms GVWR. Maximum

time to return to idle position shall be 3 seconds for any vehicle that

is exposed to ambient air at -18 degrees Celsius to -40 degrees Celsius

during the test or for any portion of the 12-hour conditioning period.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.126 [Amended]

13. Section 571.126 is amended by revising in S4, the paragraph

titled ``Cargo weight rating''; revising in S5.1.1, the introductory

paragraph and paragraph (d); and revising in S5.1.2, paragraphs (b) and

(e), to read as follows:

Sec. 571.126 Standard No. 126, Truck-camper loading.

* * * * *

S4. * * *

Cargo weight rating means the value specified by the manufacturer

as the cargo-carrying capacity, in pounds and kilograms, of a vehicle,

exclusive of the weight of occupants in designated seating positions.

* * * * *

S5.1.1 Labels. Each slide-in camper shall have permanently affixed

to it, in a manner that it cannot be removed without defacing or

destroying it, in a plainly visible location on an exterior rear

surface other than the roof, steps, or bumper extension, a label

containing the following information in the English language lettered

in block capitals and numerals not less than 2.4 millimeters high, of a

color contrasting with the background, and in the order shown below and

in the form illustrated in Figure 1.

* * * * *

(d) The following statement completed as appropriate: ``Camper

weight is ______ Kgs. (______ Lbs.) Maximum When it Contains Standard

Equipment, ______ Liters (______ Gal.) of Water, ______ Kgs. (______

Lbs.) of Bottled Gas, and ______ Cubic Meters (______ Cubic Ft.)

Refrigerator (or Icebox with ______ Kgs. (______ Lbs.) of Ice, as

applicable). Consult Owner's Manual (or Data Sheet as applicable) for

Weights of Additional or Optional Equipment.''

``Liters and Gals. of water'' refer to the volume of water

necessary to fill the camper's fresh water tanks to capacity. ``Kgs.

and Lbs. of Bottled Gas'' refer to the mass of the gas necessary to

fill the camper's bottled gas tanks to capacity. The statement

regarding a ``Refrigerator'' or ``Icebox'' refers to the capacity of

the refrigerator with which the vehicle is equipped or the mass of the

ice with which the icebox may be filled. Any of these items may be

omitted from the statement, if the corresponding accessories are not

included with the camper, provided that the omission is noted in the

camper owner's manual as required in paragraph S5.1.2(a).

* * * * *

S5.1.2 * * *

(b) A list of other additional or optional equipment that the

camper is designed to carry, and the maximum mass of each if its mass

is more than 9 kilograms when installed.

* * * * *

(e) A picture showing the location of the longitudinal center of

gravity of the camper within an accuracy of 50 millimeters under the

loaded condition specified in paragraph S5.1.1(d), in the manner

illustrated in Figure 2. Until October 1, 1973, the phrase ``Mount at

Aft End of Truck Cargo Area'' may be used in Figure 2 instead of

``Point That Contacts Rear End of Truck Bed.''

* * * * *

14. Section 571.126 is amended by revising Figure 1 at the end of

the introductory paragraph in S5.1.1 to read as follows:

MFD. BY: (CAMPER MANUFACTURER'S NAME)

(MONTH AND YEAR OF MANUFACTURE)

THIS CAMPER CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY

STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE

CAMPER WEIGHT IS ______ KG (______ LBS) MAXIMUM WHEN IT CONTAINS

STANDARD EQUIPMENT, ______ LTRS (______ GAL) OF WATER, ______ KG

(______ LBS) OF BOTTLED GAS, AND ______ CUBIC METERS (______ CUBIC

FT) REFRIGERATOR (OR ICEBOX WITH ______ KG (______ LBS) OF ICE, AS

APPLICABLE). CONSULT OWNER'S MANUAL (OR DATA SHEET AS APPLICABLE)

FOR WEIGHTS OF ADDITIONAL OR OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT.

(VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)

Figure 1. Label for Campers

15. In Section 571.126, Figure 2 at S5.1.1, after the introductory

paragraph, is revised to read as follows:

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Sec. 571.205 [Amended]

16. Section 571.205 is amended by revising in S5.1.1.2, paragraph

(m); revising S5.1.1.5; revising in S5.1.2.2, paragraph (b); revising

in S5.1.2.3, paragraph (b); revising in S5.1.2.9, paragraph (b); and

revising in S5.1.2.10, paragraph (b), to read as follows:

Sec. 571.205 Standard No. 205, Glazing materials.

* * * * *

S5.1.1.2 * * *

(m) For Item 5 safety glazing only: Motorcycle windscreens below

the intersection of a horizontal plane 380 millimeters vertically above

the lowest seating position.

* * * * *

S5.1.1.5 The phrase ``readily removable'' windows as defined in

ANS Z26, for the purposes of this standard, in buses having a GVWR of

more than 4536 kilograms, shall include pushout windows and windows

mounted in emergency exists that can be manually pushed out of their

location in the vehicle without the use of tools, regardless of whether

such windows remain hinged at one side to the vehicle.

* * * * *

S5.1.2.2 * * *

(b) Motorcycle windscreens below the intersection of a horizontal

plane 380 millimeters vertically above the lowest seating position.

* * * * *

S5.1.2.3 * * *

(b) Motorcycle windscreens below the intersection of a horizontal

plane 380 millimeters vertically above the lowest seating position.

* * * * *

S5.1.2.9 * * *

(b) Glass-plastic specimens shall be exposed to an ambient air

temperature of -40 degrees Celsius (plus or minus 5 degrees Celsius),

for a period of 6 hours at the commencement of Test No. 28, rather than

at the initial temperature specified in that test. After testing, the

glass-plastic specimens shall show no evidence of cracking, clouding,

delaminating, or other evidence of deterioration.

* * * * *

S5.1.2.10 * * *

(b) Each manufacturer of glazing materials designed to meet the

requirements of paragraphs S5.1.2.4, S5.1.2.5, S5.1.2.6, S5.1.2.7, or

S5.1.2.8 may permanently and indelibly mark the lower center of each

item of such glazing material, in letters not less than 4.5 millimeters

nor more than 6 millimeters high, the following words, GLASS PLASTIC

MATERIAL--SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR CARE INSTRUCTIONS.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.206 [Amended]

17. Section 571.206 is amended by revising S4.1.1.1; revising

S4.1.1.2; revising S4.1.2; revising S4.2.1.1; revising S4.2.1.2;

revising S4.2.2; revising S4.3; and revising S5.3, to read as follows:

Sec. 571.206 Standard No. 206, Door locks and door retention

components.

* * * * *

S4.1.1.1 Longitudinal Load. The door latch and striker assembly,

when in the fully latched position, shall not separate when a

longitudinal load of 11,120 newtons is applied. When in the secondary

latch position, the door latch and striker assembly shall not separate

when a longitudinal load of 4,450 newtons is applied.

S4.1.1.2 Transverse Load. The door latch and striker assembly,

when in the fully latched position, shall not separate when a

transverse load of 8,900 newtons is applied. When in the secondary

latched position, the door latch and striker assembly shall not

separate when a transverse load of 4,450 newtons is applied.

* * * * *

S4.1.2 Door Hinges. Each door hinge system shall support the door

and shall not separate when a longitudinal load of 11,120 newtons is

applied. Similarly, each door hinge system shall not separate when a

transverse load of 8,900 newtons is applied.

* * * * *

S4.2.1.1 Longitudinal Load. Each latch system, when in the latched

position, shall not separate when a longitudinal load of 11,120 newtons

is applied.

S4.2.1.2 Transverse Load. Each latch system, when in the latched

position, shall not separate when a transverse load of 8,900 newtons is

applied. When more than one latch system is used on a single door, the

load requirement may be divided among the total number of latch

systems.

S4.2.2 Door Hinges. Each door hinge system shall support the door

and shall not separate when a longitudinal load of 11,120 newtons is

applied, and when a transverse load of 8,900 newtons is applied.

S4.3 Sliding Doors. The track and slide combination or other

supporting means for each sliding door shall not separate when a total

transverse load of 17,800 newtons is applied, with the door in the

closed position.

* * * * *

S5.3 Sliding Doors. Compliance with S4.3 shall be demonstrated by

applying [[Page 13647]] an outward transverse load of 8,900 newtons to

the load bearing members at the opposite edges of the door (17,800

newtons total). The demonstration may be performed either in the

vehicle or with the door retention components in a bench test fixture.

Sec. 571.207 [Amended]

18. Section 571.207 is amended by revising in S4.2, the

introductory paragraph, paragraph (a), paragraph (b), and paragraph

(d); revising S4.3.2.1; and revising S5.1.2, to read as follows:

Sec. 571.207 Standard No. 207, Seating systems.

* * * * *

S.4.2 General performance requirements. When tested in accordance

with S5., each occupant seat, other than a side-facing seat or a

passenger seat on a bus, shall withstand the following forces, in

newtons.

(a) In any position to which it can be adjusted--20 times the mass

of the seat in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 applied in a forward

longitudinal direction;

(b) In any position to which it can be adjusted--20 times the mass

of the seat in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 applied in a rearward

longitudinal direction;

* * * * *

(d) In its rearmost position--a force that produces a 373 newton

meters moment about the seating reference point for each designated

seating position that the seat provides, applied to the upper cross-

member of the seat back or the upper seat back, in a rearward

longitudinal direction for forward-facing seats and in a forward

longitudinal direction for rearward-facing seats.

* * * * *

S4.3.2.1 Static force.

(a) Once engaged, the restraining device for a forward-facing seat

shall not release or fail when a forward longitudinal force, in

newtons, equal to 20 times the mass of the hinged or folding portion of

the seat in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 is applied through the center

of gravity of that portion of the seat.

(b) Once engaged, the restraining device for a rearward-facing seat

shall not release or fail when a rearward longitudinal force, in

newtons, equal to 8 times the mass of the hinged or folding portion of

the seat in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 is applied through the center

of gravity of that portion of the seat.

* * * * *

S5.1.2 If the seat back and the seat bench are attached to the

vehicle by different attachments, attach to each component a fixture

capable of transmitting a force to that component. Apply forces, in

newtons, equal to 20 times the mass of the seat in kilograms multiplied

by 9.8 horizontally through the center of gravity of the seat back, as

shown in Figure 2 and apply forces, in newtons, equal to 20 times the

mass of the seat in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 horizontally through

the center of gravity of the seat bench, as shown in Figure 3.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.212 [Amended]

19. Section 571.212 is amended by revising S3; revising S5;

revising in S6.1, paragraph (b); and revising S6.5, to read as follows:

Sec. 571.212 Standard No. 212, Windshield mounting.

* * * * *

S3. Application. This standard applies to passenger cars, and to

multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks, and buses having a gross

vehicle weight rating of 4536 kilograms or less. However, it does not

apply to forward control vehicles, walk-in van-type vehicles, or to

open-body type vehicles with fold-down or removable windshields.

* * * * *

S5. Requirements. When the vehicle travelling longitudinally

forward at any speed up to and including 48 kilometers per hour impacts

a fixed collision barrier that is perpendicular to the line of travel

of the vehicle, under the conditions of S6, the windshield mounting of

the vehicle shall retain not less than the minimum portion of the

windshield periphery specified in S5.1 and S5.2.

* * * * *

S6.1 * * *

(b) Except as specified in S6.2, a multipurpose passenger vehicle,

truck or bus is loaded to its unloaded vehicle weight, plus 136

kilograms or its rated cargo and luggage capacity, whichever is less,

secured to the vehicle, plus a 50th-percentile test dummy as specified

in part 572 of this chapter at each front outboard designated seating

position and at any other position whose protection system is required

to be tested by a dummy under the provisions of Standard No. 208. Each

dummy is restrained only by means that are installed for protection at

its seating position. The load is distributed so that the weight on

each axle as measured at the tire-ground interface is in proportion to

its GAWR. If the weight on any axle when the vehicle is loaded to its

unloaded vehicle weight plus dummy weight exceeds the axle's

proportional share of the test weight, the remaining weight is placed

so that the weight on that axle remains the same. For the purposes of

this section, unloaded vehicle weight does not include the weight of

work-performing accessories. Vehicles are tested to a maximum unloaded

vehicle weight of 2,495 kilograms.

* * * * *

S6.5 The windshield mounting material and all vehicle components

in direct contact with the mounting material are at any temperature

between -9 degrees Celsius and +43 degrees Celsius.

* * * * *

Sec. 571.216 [Amended]

20. Section 571.216 is amended by revising S3; revising S4;

revising S5; revising in S6.2, paragraph (d); and revising S6.3 to read

as follows:

Sec. 571.216 Standard No. 216, Roof crush resistance--passenger cars.

* * * * *

S3. Application. This standard applies to passenger cars, and to

multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks and buses with a GVWR of 2722

kilograms or less. However, it does not apply to--

(a) School buses;

(b) Vehicles that conform to the rollover test requirements (S5.3)

of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208) by means that require no action by

vehicle occupants; or

(c) Convertibles, except for optional compliance with the standard

as an alternative to the rollover test requirements in S5.3 of Standard

No. 208.

S4. Requirements.

(a) Passenger cars. A test device as described in S5 shall not move

more than 125 millimeters, measured in accordance with S6.4, when it is

used to apply a force in newtons equal to 1\1/2\ times the unloaded

vehicle weight of the vehicle, measured in kilograms and multiplied by

9.8 or 22,240 newtons, whichever is less, to either side of the forward

edge of a vehicle's roof in accordance with the procedures of S6. Both

the left and right front portions of the vehicle's roof structure shall

be capable of meeting the requirements, but a particular vehicle need

not meet further requirements after being tested at one location.

(b) Multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks and buses with a GVWR

of 2,722 kilograms or less, manufactured on or after September 1, 1994.

For multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks and buses with a GVWR of

2,722 kilograms or less, manufactured on or after September 1, 1994, a

test device as [[Page 13648]] described in S5 shall not move more than

125 millimeters, measured in accordance with S6.4, when it is used to

apply a force in newtons equal to 1\1/2\ times the unloaded vehicle

weight of the vehicle, measured in kilograms and multiplied by 9.8, to

either side of the forward edge of a vehicle's roof in accordance with

the procedures of S6. Both the left and right front portions of the

vehicle's roof structure shall be capable of meeting the requirements,

but a particular vehicle need not meet further requirements after being

tested at one location.

S5. Test device. The test device is a rigid unyielding block with

its lower surface formed as a flat rectangle 762 millimeters x 1829

millimeters.

* * * * *

S6.2 * * *

(d) The initial contact point, or center of the initial contact

area, is on the longitudinal centerline of the lower surface of the

test device and 254 millimeters from the forwardmost point of that

centerline.

6.3 (a) Passenger cars. Apply force in a downward direction

perpendicular to the lower surface of the test device at a rate of not

more than 13 millimeters per second until reaching a force in newtons

of 1\1/2\ times the unloaded vehicle weight of the tested vehicle,

measured in kilograms and multiplied by 9.8 or 22,240 newtons,

whichever is less. Complete the test within 120 seconds. Guide the test

device so that throughout the test it moves, without rotation, in a

straight line with its lower surface oriented as specified in S6.2(a)

through S6.2(d).

(b) Multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks and buses with a GVWR

of 2,722 kilograms or less, manufactured on or after September 1, 1994.

For multipurpose passenger vehicles, trucks and buses with a GVWR of

2,722 kilograms or less, manufactured on or after September 1, 1994,

apply force in a downward direction perpendicular to the lower surface

of the test device at a rate of not more than 13 millimeters per second

until reaching a force in newtons of 1\1/2\ times the unloaded vehicle

weight of the tested vehicle, measured in kilograms and multiplied by

9.8. Complete the test within 120 seconds. Guide the test device so

that throughout the test it moves, without rotation, in a straight line

with its lower surface oriented as specified in S6.2(a) through

S6.2(d).

* * * * *

21. Section 571.216, is amended by revising Figure 1 at the end of

S6.4 to read as follows:

BILLING CODE 4910-59-P

[[Page 13649]]

[GRAPHIC][TIFF OMITTED]TR14MR95.011

Issued on: March 8, 1995.

Ricardo Martinez,

Administrator.

[FR Doc. 95-6230 Filed 3-13-95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4910-59-C