Interpretation ID: nht74-4.45

DATE: 01/18/74

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Lawrence R. Schneider; NHTSA

TO: Rogue Racing

TITLE: FMVSR INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Dr. Gregory asked me to respond to your January 3, 1974, letter asking whether the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposal to modify the definition of Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle would affect importation of The Thing.

The proposed modification would reclassify vehicles like The Thing as passenger vehicles, but it would not prohibit their importation. Volkswagen would have to incorporate several additional safety features in The Thing to meet the higher standards for passenger cars.

We have not made a final decision on the proposed redefinition. Volkswagen as the manufacturer of The Thing might be able to give you a better evaluation of The Thing's future than we have at present.

Sincerely,

January 3, 1974

Dr. James B. Gregory

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

A recent article in the January issue of Four Wheeler magazine states that NHTSA plans to modify the definition of multi-purpose vehicles to exclude the Volkswagen 181 (The Thing). As a manufacturer and wholesaler of accessories for the Thing, we are very concerned how the change in definition will effect the importation of the Thing and/or the safety specification which must be met before the Thing may be sold in this country. We would appreciate any information which is now available, and any future information concerning specification required for the Thing. Thank you.

Joshua E. Bruner