Interpretation ID: aiam3982
President
Tow-All
Inc.
10501 E. Bloomington Freeway
Bloomington
MN 55420;
Dear Mr. Moravec: This responds to your letter of May 20, 1985, concerning Federa requirements applicable to the motorized hitch or 'Supplemental Power Unit' (SPU) being developed by your company.; This agency administers the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safet Act of 1966, as amended, 15 U.S.C. 1391 *et seq*. (the Act). Under the Act, a motor vehicle is defined as 'any vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power manufactured primarily for use on the public streets, roads and highways.' You letter states that the SPU is a motorized single axle unit with an automatic transmission. In addition, your letter, the accompanying photographs, and descriptive material indicate that the SPU could be attached between a small car and a large trailer to permit the small car to safely pull the trailer long distances at highway speeds.; Based on this information, the agency concludes that the SPU is a moto vehicle and falls within the trailer classification. Under 49 CFR Part 571.3, a trailer is defined as 'a motor vehicle with or without motive power, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by another vehicle.' An information sheet for manufacturers is enclosed.; The following regulations and Federal motor vehicle safety standard are applicable to trailers:; >>>49 CFR Part 565, *Vehicle Identification Number - Conten Requirements*; 49 CFR Part 566, *Manufacturer Identification* 49 CFR Part 567, *Certification* (see S567.4 for trailers) Standard No. 106, *Brake Hoses* Standard No. 108, *Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment* Standard No. 115, *Vehicle Identification Number - Basic Requirements* Standard No. 116, *Motor Vehicle Brake Fluids* Standard No. 119, *New Pneumatic Tires for Vehicles Other Tha Passenger Tires* (sic); Standard No. 120, *Tire Selection and Rims for Vehicles Other Tha Passenger Tires* (sic); Standard No. 121, *Air Brake System* (sic)<<< Copies of these regulations and standards can be obtained by writin to: Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. An information sheet for ordering copies is also enclosed.; State regulations applying to trailers and their use on the road should be checked for any State in which your company's trailers are to be sold.; I hope this information is helpful to you. Sincerely, Jeffrey R. Miller, Chief Counsel