Interpretation ID: nht80-4.9

DATE: 10/07/80

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Frank Berndt; NHTSA

TO: Mr. C. Rodney Kuhns

TITLE: FMVSR INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This responds to your letter of August 10, 1980, in which you ask whether your proposed urban transport vehicle would be classified as an automoble or a motorcycle.

The agency's definition of "motorcycle" is given in 49 CFR @ 571.3, which reads in part:

"Motorcycle" means a motor vehicle with motive power having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.

Based on our understanding of your drawings, your proposed vehicle has more than three wheels. If our understanding is correct, your vehicle would be classified as a passenger car rather than as a motorcycle.

The requirements for passenger cars are more stringent than for motorcycles. We have enclosed a pamphlet prepared by the agency which gives a brief summary of the requirements and applicability of each of the Federal motor vehicle safety standards (issued as of August 1978). However, because of the volume of these standards, we do not provide copies directly. We have enclosed an information sheet which explains how you can obtain up-to-date copies of our standards and other regulations.

This agency does not license any vehicles for street or highway use. Licensing is handled by the States. We specify performance requirements, and any motor vehicle must be certified by its manufacturers as being in compliance with all applicable safety standards as of the date of its manufacture. If the vehicle complies with these requirements, we specify no further steps which must be taken.

The agency will provide confidential treatment for your letter and accompanying drawings.