1.2.1.
Ensure compatibility when combining L-category vehicles with different types of trailers;
1.2.2.
Ensure the safe coupling of the vehicle and trailer under all conditions of use;
1.2.3.
Ensure safe procedures for coupling and uncoupling.
2.
General requirements
2.1.
The coupling devices for L-category vehicles shall be manufactured and attached in accordance with good engineering practice, and shall be safe to operate. They may be approved as separate technical units under this Regulation or approved under UNECE regulation No 55(1).
2.2.
The coupling devices shall be so designed and manufactured that in normal use, with proper maintenance and the timely replacement of wearing parts, they will continue to function satisfactorily.
2.3.
Every coupling device shall be accompanied by installation and operating instructions giving sufficient information for a competent person to install it on the vehicle and operate it properly. The instructions shall be in the official language or languages of the Member State in which the coupling device will be offered for sale.
2.4.
The materials that may be used are those for which the properties relevant to the application are laid down in a standard or those for which the properties are given in the application documentation.
2.5.
All parts of the coupling devices the failure of which could result in separation of the two vehicles shall be made of steel. Other materials may be used provided equivalence has been demonstrated by the manufacturer to the satisfaction of the technical service.
2.6.
All couplings shall be designed for positive mechanical engagement, and the closed position shall be secured at least once by positive mechanical engagement.
2.7.
If equipped with a coupling device, a coupling ball as specified in accordance with Appendix 1, Figure Ap1-1 shall be used on an L-category vehicle. The coupling type shall be chosen and positioned to allow maximum compatibility with a range of trailer types. However, a device other than such a coupling ball may be used, provided the requirements of point 2.8 are met and that the compatibility and interchangeability of trailers is neither necessary nor possible (dedicated combinations).
2.8.
Coupling devices shall be designed so as to meet the requirements for case of operation, position, mobility and strength in line with points 2.9, 2.10, 2.11 and points 3, 4 and 5.
2.9.
The coupling devices shall be designed and attached so as to achieve maximum safety according to good engineering practice; this also applies to the operation of the coupling.
2.10.
It shall be possible for one person safely to couple and uncouple the vehicles without the use of tools.
2.11.
It shall be possible to operate the detachable coupling devices easily by hand and without the use of tools.
2.12.
When placing products on the market, manufacturers of coupling devices or vehicles shall provide the consumer with guidelines and information in all official languages regarding the impact on driveability of driving an L-category vehicle with a trailer.
3.
Requirements for position
3.1.
Coupling devices attached to the vehicles shall ensure unhindered and safe operation.
3.2.
Coupling balls attached to the vehicles shall correspond to the geometric conditions specified in figure Ap1-2 of Appendix 1.
3.3.
The height of the coupling point of a coupling device other than a coupling ball shall correspond to the height of the coupling point of the drawbar of the trailer within a range of ± 35 mm, provided the trailer is in a horizontal position.
3.4.
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