In recent weeks, HVIA has received information from members that appears to indicate an unexpected change in VIN marking requirements in Victoria.
HVIA understands that some trailer registration applications in the state have been refused on the condition that the VIN was not stamped directly onto the vehicle’s chassis but instead engraved onto a steel plate that was welded to the chassis.
HVIA has raised the matter with the Manager of Vehicle Safety and Technology within the Victorian Department of Transport. HVIA was advised that the Department is discussing the matter internally and will formalise its position, and did not provide a resolution timeline.
HVIA’s review of the applicable regulations indicates that the long-standing vehicle manufacturer practice of including vehicle information onto a dedicated metal plate that is affixed to the chassis with either welding or rivets complies with the Australian Design Rules, published advice from the Federal Department of Infrastructure, and information on the Victorian State Government’s Transport Department website.
Given that, it is unclear why Victorian regulators may have, or are considering, deviating from that practice.
HVIA is seeking to meet with the Department this week to progress a resolution on this matter. In the meantime, if members have any further information or recent experience with this issue, please discuss with HVIA Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger at a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au.