Following last week’s advice on the release of the draft AS 4177 (Caravan and Light Trailer Components) for public comment, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has provided an update on how VSG 16 could be treated in the future.
HVIA understands that if the proposed updates to AS 4177 are adopted, manufacturers will be able to produce 50mm tow-balls and coupling bodies for use on vehicles over five tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) using the standard’s new D-value provisions.
In the possible future case where both the tow-ball and coupling body are appropriately D-rated and marked under the requirements of the updated standard, the five-tonne limitation would no longer apply in the way that it is currently described in VSG 16.
However, HVIA understands manufacturers will still be able to produce components that are not rated for use above five tonnes GVM, and for those components, the existing limitation and approach of VSG 16 would remain applicable.
The NHVR has advised HVIA that any updates to VSG 16 will be considered following the outcomes of Standards Australia’s public comment consultation period, and once the changes to the standard have been finalised.
Please contact HVIA Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger at a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au to discuss.