Interpretation ID: nht91-3.2

DATE: March 28, 1991

FROM: Takeo Wakamatsu -- Executive Vice President, General Manager, Mitsubishi Motors America, Inc.

TO: Scott Shadle -- Supervisor, Vehicle Certification, NHTSA

TITLE: Re Derating of Trucks

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 4-29-91 from Paul Jackson Rice to Takeo Wakamatsu (A37; Part 567)

TEXT:

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, Inc. (MFTA), is the importer and distributor of trucks as incomplete vehicles manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) in Japan. MMC Japan has asked Mitsubishi Motors America, Inc. (MMA), the liaison between MFTA and MMC Japan, to make the following request on their behalf.

MMC is considering derating the GVW of the trucks imported for the purpose of marketing strategy.

In this case, the brake system will not be modified and the vehicle should be in compliance with FMVSS 105 requirements. MMC would supply the new VIN plates with the derated GVW and have MFTA replace the old ones with the new ones.

We expect this kind of modification is such an implementation that has to meet with official approval. At this time, we are asking you for your approval of this modification.

If there are any additional questions you have regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact me at (609)467-4664.

Your anticipated cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.