Motor vehicles with trailers: mechanical coupling devices (until 2014)

1) OBJECTIVE

To facilitate the interchangeability of motor vehicles and trailers within the territory of the Community and to harmonize the technical requirements for mechanical coupling devices.

2) ACT

European Parliament and Council Directive 94/20/EC of 30 May 1994 relating to the mechanical coupling devices of motor vehicles and their trailers and their attachment to these vehicles [Official Journal L 195 of 29.07.1994].

3) SUMMARY

This Directive contributes towards implementation of the EC type-approval procedure provided for by Council Directive 70/156/EEC on the approximation of the laws of Member States relating to the type-approval of motor vehicles and their trailers.

The Directive defines "vehicle" and "mechanical coupling type".

With effect from 1 October 1995 Member States may prohibit the first entry into service of vehicles of which the mechanical coupling devices fail to comply with the provisions of this Directive. Conversely, Member States may not refuse EC type-approval or national type-approval for a vehicle or prohibit the sale, registration or use of a vehicle on grounds relating to its coupling device, if the device satisfies the requirements laid down in the Directive. The same applies to component type-approval and to the sale or use of a mechanical coupling device.

A procedure for adaptation to technical progress is also included.

Last updated: 13.07.2005