Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
Is the HRV technically a light truck?
I recall another unintended consequence of CAFE related car vs. truck definitions was the raising of ride height to cause a car to be classified as a truck for more lenient regs. Subaru Forester and/or Outback wagon comes to mind. The PT Cruiser was also technically a truck (just learned that recently).
I have no idea if those old rules/loopholes still apply.
|
The HR-V is classified as a light truck as are about 70% of the vehicle sold in 2019. Actual truck sales (pick-up trucks with beds) are pretty flat over time with about 10% of the market. The big shift is people moving from cars to unibody CUVs based on car platforms.
Yes, the loopholes still apply. Classifications are in 49 CFR § 523.5
A vehicle is a light truck if it:
- Can carry 10 or more passengers
- Provided temporary living quarters
- Can carry cargo in an open bed
- Had 3 rows of seats that 2 fold down to carry cargo
- Is designed for off-road operation.
Off-Road operation is defined as:
(1)
(i) Has 4-wheel drive; or
(ii) Is rated at more than 6,000 pounds gross vehicle weight; and
(2) Has at least four of the following characteristics calculated when the automobile is at curb weight, on a level surface, with the front wheels parallel to the automobile's longitudinal centerline, and the tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure -
(i) Approach angle of not less than 28 degrees.
(ii) Breakover angle of not less than 14 degrees.
(iii) Departure angle of not less than 20 degrees.
(iv) Running clearance of not less than 20 centimeters.
(v) Front and rear axle clearances of not less than 18 centimeters each.
Light trucks have been a separate class of vehicles since 1975. The split was based on the case: International Harvester Co. v. Ruckelshaus, D.C. Cir. No. 72-1517, Feb. 10, 1973