Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status and date of entry into force of this Regulation should be checked in the latest version of the UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343, available at: http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html

Regulation No 21 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to their interior fittings

Incorporating all valid text up to:

Supplement 3 to the 01 series of Amendments — Date of entry into force: 31 January 2003

1.   SCOPE

This Regulation applies to the interior fittings of passenger cars with regard to:

1.1.	the interior parts of the passenger compartment other than the rear-view mirror or mirrors:

1.2.	the arrangement of the controls;

1.3.	the roof or opening roof; and

1.4.	the seat-back and the rear parts of seats;

1.5.	power-operation of windows, roof panels and partition systems.

2.   DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this Regulation:

2.1.	‘approval of a vehicle’ means the approval of a vehicle type with regard to its interior fittings;

2.2.

‘vehicle type’ with regard to the interior fittings of the passenger compartment means vehicles of category M1 which do not differ in such essential respects as: 2.2.1. the lines of constituent materials of the bodywork of the passenger compartment; 2.2.2. the arrangement of the controls; 2.2.3. the performance of the protective system, if the reference zone within the head impact zone determined according to Annex VIII (dynamic evaluation) is chosen by the applicant. 2.2.3.1. Vehicles that differ only in the performance of the protective system(s) belong to the same vehicle type if they offer an equal or better protection for the occupants compared with the system or vehicle submitted to the technical service responsible for conducting the approval tests.

2.3.

‘reference zone’ is the head impact zone as defined in Annex I to this Regulation, or at the choice of the manufacturer, according to Annex VIII, excluding the following areas: (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.3 and 2.3.1); 2.3.1. the area bounded by the forward horizontal projection of a circle circumscribing the outer limits of the steering control, increased by a peripheral band 127 mm in width; this area is bounded below by the horizontal plane tangential to the lower edge of the steering control when the latter is in the position for driving straight ahead. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.3 and 2.3.1); 2.3.2. the part of the surface of the instrument panel comprised between the edge of the area specified in paragraph 2.3.1 above and the nearest inner side-wall of the vehicle; this part of the surface is bounded below by the horizontal plane tangential to the lower edge of the steering control; and (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.3 and 2.3.1); 2.3.3. the windscreen side pillars; (see Annex 10, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.3 and 2.3.1);

2.4.	‘level of the instrument panel’ means the line defined by the points of contact of vertical tangents to the instrument panel; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 2.4);

2.5.	‘roof’ means the upper part of the vehicle extending from the upper edge of the windscreen to the upper edge of the rear window and bounded at the sides by the upper framework of the side-walls; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 2.5);

2.6.	‘belt line’ means the line constituted by the transparent lower contour of the side windows of the vehicle;

2.7.	‘convertible car’ means a vehicle where, in certain configurations, there is no rigid part of the vehicle body above the belt line with the exception of the front rof supports and/or the roll-over bars and/or the seat belt anchorage points; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.5 and 2.7);

2.8.	‘vehicle with opening roof’ means a vehicle of which only the roof or part of it can be folded back or be opened, or may slide, leaving the existing structural elements of the vehicle above the belt line (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 2.5);

2.9.	‘folding (tip-up) seat’ means an auxiliary seat intended for occasional use and which is normally folded out of the way.

2.10.

‘Protective system’ means interior fittings and devices intended to restrain the occupants.

2.11.

‘Type of a protective system’, means a category of protective devices which do not differ in such essential respects as: 2.11.1. their technology; 2.11.2. their geometry; 2.11.3. their constituent materials.

2.12.

‘Power-operated windows’ means windows which are closed by power supply of the vehicle.

2.13.

‘Power-operated roof-panel systems’ means movable panels in the vehicle roof which are closed by power supply of the vehicle by either a sliding and/or tilting motion, and which do not include convertible top systems.

2.14.

‘Power-operated partition systems’ means systems which divide a passenger car compartment into at least two sections and which are closed using the power supply of the vehicle.

2.15.

‘Opening’ is the maximum unobstructed aperture between the upper edge or leading edge, depending on the closing direction, of a power-operated window or partition or roof panel and the vehicle structure which forms the boundary of the window, partition or roof panel, when viewed from the interior of the vehicle or, in the case of partition system, from the rear part of the passenger compartment. To measure an opening, a cylindrical test rod shall (without exerting force) be placed through it normally perpendicular to the edge of the window, roof panel or partition and perpendicular to the closing direction as shown in Figure 1 of Annex IX, from the interior through to the exterior of the vehicle or, as applicable, from the rear part of the passenger compartment.

2.16.

‘Key’ 2.16.1. ‘Ignition key’ means the device that operates the electric power supply necessary to operate the engine or motor of the vehicle. This definition does not preclude a non-mechanical device. 2.16.2. ‘Power key’ means the device which allows power to be supplied to the power systems of the vehicle. This key may also be the ignition key. This definition does not preclude a non-mechanical device.

2.17.

‘Airbag’ means a device installed to supplement safety belts and restraint systems in power driven vehicles, i.e. systems which in the event of a severe impact affecting the vehicle automatically deploy a flexible structure intended to limit, by compression of the gas contained within it, the severity of the contacts of one or more parts of an occupant of the vehicle with the interior of the passenger compartment.

2.18.

A ‘sharp edge’ is an edge of a rigid material having a radius of curvature of less than 2,5 mm except in the case of projections of less than 3,2 mm, measured from the panel according to the procedure described in paragraph 1 of Annex VI. In this case, the minimum radius of curvature shall not apply provided the height of the projection is not more than half its width and its edges are blunted (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 2.18).

3.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

3.1.   The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to its interior fittings shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.

3.2.   It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents in triplicate and by the following particulars:

a detailed description of the vehicle type with regard to the items mentioned in paragraph 2.2 above, accompanied by a photograph or an exploded view of the passenger compartment. The numbers and/or symbols identifying the vehicle type shall be specified.

3.3.   The following must be submitted to the technical service responsible for conducting the approval tests:

3.3.1.

at the manufacturer’s discretion, either a vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved or the part or parts of the vehicle regarded as essential for the checks and tests prescribed by this Regulation;

3.3.2.

at the request of the aforesaid technical service, certain components and certain samples of the materials used.

4.   APPROVAL

4.1.   If the vehicle submitted for approval pursuant to this Regulation meets the requirements of paragraph 5 below, approval of that vehicle type shall be granted.

4.2.   An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at present 01 corresponding to the 01 series of amendments which entered into force on 26 April 1986) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same number to another vehicle type.

4.3.   Notice of approval or of extension or refusal or of withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex II to this Regulation.

4.4.   There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in a readily accessible place specified on the approval form, to every vehicle conforming to a vehicle type approved under this Regulation, an international approval mark consisting of:

4.4.1.

a circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (1);

4.4.2.

the number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 4.4.1 above.

4.5.   If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle type approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol prescribed in paragraph 4.4.1 need not be repeated; in such a case the Regulation and approval numbers and the additional symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 4.4.1 above.

4.6.   The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

4.7.   The approval mark shall be placed close to or on the vehicle data plate affixed by the manufacturer.

4.8.   Annex III to this Regulation gives examples of arrangement of the approval marks.

5.   REQUIREMENTS

5.1.   Forward interior parts of the passenger compartment above the level of the instrument panel in front of the front seat ‘H’ points, excluding the side doors.

5.1.1.   The reference zone defined in paragraph 2.3 above must not contain any dangerous roughness or sharp edges likely to increase the risk of serious injury to the occupants. If the head impact area is determined according to Annex I, the parts referred to in paragraphs 5.1.2 to 5.1.6 below shall be deemed satisfactory if they comply with the requirements of those paragraphs. If the head impact area is determined according to Annex 8, the requirements of paragraph 5.1.7 shall apply. (see Annex 10, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.1)

5.1.2.   Vehicle parts within the reference zone with the exception of those which are not part of the instrument panel and which are placed at less than 10 cm from glazed surfaces shall be energy-dissipating as prescribed in Annex IV to this Regulation. Those parts within the reference zone which satisfy both of the following conditions shall also be excluded from consideration if: (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.2)

5.1.2.1.

during a test in accordance with the requirements of Annex IV of this Regulation, the pendulum makes contact with parts outside the reference zone; and

5.1.2.2.

the parts to be tested are placed less than 10 cm away from the parts contacted outside the reference zone, this distance being measured on the surface of the reference zone; any metal support fittings shall have no protruding edges.

5.1.3.   The lower edge of the instrument panel shall, unless it meets the requirements of paragraph 5.1.2 above, be rounded to a radius of curvature of not less than 19 mm. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.3)

5.1.4.   Switches, pull-knobs and the like, made of rigid material, which, measured in accordance with the method prescribed in Annex VI, project from 3,2 mm to 9,5 mm from the panel, shall have a cross-sectional area of not less than 2 cm2, measured 2,5 mm from the point projecting furthest, and shall have rounded edges with a radius of curvature of not less than 2,5 mm. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.4)

5.1.5.   If these components project by more than 9,5 mm from the surface of the instrument panel, they shall be so designed and constructed as to be able, under the effect of a longitudinal horizontal force of 37.8 daN delivered by a flat-ended ram of not more than 50 mm diameter, either to retract into the surface of the panel until they do not project by more than 9,5 mm or to become detached; in the latter case, no dangerous projections of more than 9,5 mm shall remain; a cross-section not more than 6,5 mm from the point of maximum projection shall be not less than 6,5 cm2 in area. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.5)

5.1.6.   In the case of a projection comprising a component made of non-rigid material of less than 50 shore A hardness mounted on a rigid support, the requirements of paragraphs 5.1.4 and 5.1.5 shall apply only to the rigid support or it shall be demonstrated by sufficient tests according to the procedure described in Annex IV that the soft material of less than 50 shore A hardness will not be cut so as to contact the support during the specified impact test. In that case the radius requirements shall not apply. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.1.6)

5.1.7.   The following paragraphs shall apply:

5.1.7.1.

If the protective system of the vehicle type cannot prevent head contacts of the occupants defined in paragraph 1.2.1. of Annex VIII with the instrument panel, and a dynamic reference zone according to Annex VIII is determined, the requirements of paragraphs 5.1.2 to 5.1.6 are applicable only to the parts located in that zone. Parts in other areas of the dashboard above the level of the instrument panel, if contractable by a 165 mm diameter sphere, shall be at least blunted.

5.1.7.2.

If the protective system of the vehicle type is able to prevent head contacts of the occupants defined in paragraph 1.2.1 of Annex VIII with the instrument panel and therefore no reference zone can be determined, the requirements of paragraphs 5.1.2 to 5.1.6 are not applicable to this vehicle type. Parts of the dashboard above the level of the instrument panel, if contractable by a 165 mm diameter sphere, shall be at least blunted.

5.2.   Forward interior parts of the passenger compartment below the level of the instrument panel and in front of the front seat ‘H’ points, excluding the side doors and the pedals.

5.2.1.   Except for the pedals and their fixtures and those components that cannot be contacted by the device described in Annex VII to this Regulation and used in accordance with the procedure described therein, components covered by paragraph 5.2, such as switches, the ignition key, etc. shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs 5.1.4 to 5.1.6 above.

5.2.2.   The hand-brake control, if mounted on or under the instrument panel, shall be so placed that, when it is in the position of rest there is no possibility of the occupants of the vehicle striking against it in the event of a frontal impact. If this condition is not met, the surface area of the control shall satisfy the requirements of paragraph 5.3.2.3 below. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.2.2)

5.2.3.   Shelves and other similar items shall be so designed and constructed that the supports in no case have protruding edges, and they meet one or other of the following conditions: (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.2.3)

5.2.3.1.

The part facing into the vehicle shall present a surface not less than 25 mm high with edges rounded to a radius of curvature of not less than 3,2 mm. This surface shall consist of or be covered with an energy-dissipating material as defined in Annex IV of this Regulation, and shall be tested in accordance therewith, the impact being applied in a horizontal longitudinal direction. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.2.3.1)

5.2.3.2.

Shelves and other similar items shall, under the effect of a forward-acting horizontal longitudinal force of 37.8 daN exerted by a cylinder of 110 mm diameter with its axis vertical, become detached, break up, be substantially distorted or retract without producing dangerous features on the rim of the shelf. The force must be directed at the strongest part of the shelves or other similar items. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.2.3.2)

5.2.4.   If the items in question contain a part made of material softer than 50 shore A hardness when fitted to a rigid support, the above requirements, except for the requirements covered by Annex IV relating to energy absorption, shall apply only to the rigid support or it can be demonstrated by sufficient tests according to the procedure described in Annex IV that the soft material of less than 50 shore A hardness will not be cut so as to contact the support during the specified impact test. In that case the radius requirements shall not apply.

5.3.   Other interior fittings in the passenger compartment in front of the transverse plane passing through the torso reference line of the manikin placed on the rearmost seats. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3)

5.3.1.   Scope

The requirements of paragraph 5.3.2 below apply to control handles, levers and knobs and to any other protruding objects not referred to in paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 above. (See also paragraph 5.3.2.2)

5.3.2.   Requirements

If the items referred to in paragraph 5.3.1 above are so placed that occupants of the vehicle can contact them, they shall meet the requirements of paragraphs 5.3.2.1 to 5.3.4 If they can be contacted by a 165 mm diameter sphere and are above the lowest ‘H’ point (see Annex V of this Regulation) of the front seats and forward of the transverse plane of the torso reference line of the manikin on the rearmost seat, and outside the zones defined in paragraphs 2.3.1 and 2.3.2, these requirements shall be considered to have been fulfilled if: (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.2)

5.3.2.1.

their surface terminates in rounded edges, the radii of curvature being not less than 3,2 mm; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.2.1)

5.3.2.2.

control levers and knobs shall be so designed and constructed that, under the effect of a forward-acting longitudinal horizontal force of 37.8 daN either the projection in its most unfavourable position is reduced to not more than 25 mm from the surface of the panel or the said fittings become detached or bent: in the two latter cases no dangerous projections shall remain. Window winders may, however, project 35 mm from the surface of the panel; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.2.2)

5.3.2.3.

the hand brake control when in the released position and the gear lever when in any forward gear position, have, except when placed in the zones defined in paragraphs 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 and in the zones below the horizontal plane passing through the ‘H’ point of the front seats, a surface area of not less than 6 cm2 measured at a cross-section normal to the longitudinal horizontal direction up to a distance of 6,5 mm from the part projecting furthest, the radius of curvature being not less than 3,2 mm. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.2.3)

5.3.3.   The requirements in paragraph 5.3.2.3 shall not apply to a floor-mounted handbrake control; for such controls, if the height of any part in the released position is above a horizontal plane passing through the ‘H’ point of the front seats (see Annex V of this Regulation) the control shall have a cross-sectional area of at least 6,5 cm2 measured in a horizontal plane not more than 6,5 mm from the furthest projecting part (measured in the vertical direction). The radius of curvature shall not be less than 3,2 mm.

5.3.4.   The other elements of the vehicle’s equipment not covered by the above paragraph, such as seat slide rails, devices for regulating the horizontal or vertical part of the seat, devices for rolling up safety belts, etc. are not subject to any regulation if they are situated below a horizontal line passing through the ‘H’ point of each seat, even though the occupant is likely to come into contact with such items. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.4)

5.3.4.1.   Components mounted on the roof but which are not part of the roof structure, such as grab handles, lamps and sun visors, etc. shall have a radius of curvature not less that 3,2 mm. In addition, the width of the projecting parts shall not be less than the amount of their downward projection; alternatively, these projecting parts shall pass the energy-dissipating test in accordance with the requirements of Annex IV. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.3.4.1)

5.3.5.   If the parts considered above comprise a component made of material of less than 50 shore A hardness, mounted on a rigid support, the above requirements shall apply only to the rigid support, or it can be demonstrated by sufficient tests according to the procedure described in Annex IV that the soft material of less than 50 shore A hardness will not be cut so as to contact the support during the specified impact test. In that case the radius requirements shall not apply.

5.3.6.   In addition, power operated windows and partition systems and their controls shall meet the requirements of paragraph 5.8 below.

5.4.   Roof (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.4)

5.4.1.   Scope

5.4.1.1.   The requirements of paragraph 5.4.2 below shall apply to the inner face of the roof.

5.4.1.2.   However, they shall not apply to such parts of the roof as cannot be contacted by a sphere 165 mm in diameter.

5.4.2.   Requirements

5.4.2.1.   That part of the inner face of the roof which is situated above or forward of the occupants shall exhibit no dangerous roughness or sharp edges, directed rearwards or downwards. The width of the projecting parts shall not he less than the amount of their downward projection and the edges shall have a radius of curvature of not less than 5 mm. In particular, the rigid roof sticks or ribs, with the exception of the header rail of the glazed surfaces and door frames, shall not project downwards more than 19 mm. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.4.2.1)

5.4.2.2.   If the roof sticks or ribs do not meet the requirements of paragraph 5.4.2.1, they shall pass the energy-dissipating test in accordance with the requirement of Annex IV to this Regulation.

5.4.2.3.   The metal wires which stretch the lining of the roof and the frames of the sun visors shall have a maximum diameter of 5 mm or be able to absorb the energy, as prescribed in Annex IV to this Regulation. Non-rigid attachment elements of the frames of the sun visors shall meet the requirements of paragraph 5.3.4.1 above.

5.5.   Vehicles with an opening roof (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.5)

5.5.1.   Requirements

5.5.1.1.   The following requirements and those of paragraph 5.4 above shall apply to vehicles with an opening roof when the roof is in the closed position.

5.5.1.2.   In addition, the opening and operating devices shall: (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 5.5.1.2, 5.5.1.2.1, and 5.5.1.2.2):

5.5.1.2.1.

be so designed and constructed as to exclude accidental or inopportune operation as far as possible (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 5.5.1.2, 5.5.1.2.1, and 5.5.1.2.2):

5.5.1.2.2.

their surfaces shall terminate in rounded edges, the radii of curvature being not less than 5 mm; (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraphs 5.5.1.2, 5.5.1.2.1, and 5.5.1.2.2):

5.5.1.2.3.

be accommodated, when in the position of rest, in areas which cannot be contacted by a sphere 165 mm in diameter. If this condition cannot be met, the opening and operating devices shall, in the position of rest, either remain retracted or be so designed and constructed that, under the effect of a force of 37.8 daN applied in the direction of impact defined in Annex IV to this Regulation as the tangent to the trajectory of the headform, either the projection as described in Annex VI to this Regulation shall be reduced to not more than 25 mm beyond the surface on which the devices are mounted or the devices shall become detached; in the latter case no dangerous projections shall remain. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.5.1.2.3).

5.5.2.   In addition, power-operated roof-panel systems and their controls shall meet the requirements of paragraph 5.8 below.

5.6.   Convertible vehicles (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.6)

5.6.1.   In the case of convertible vehicles, only the underside of the top of the roll-bar and the top of the windscreen frame in all its normal utilisation positions shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 5.4. The system of folding rods or links used to support a non-rigid roof shall, where they are situated above and forward of the occupants, exhibit no dangerous roughness or sharp edges, directed downwards or rearwards. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.6.1)

5.7.   Rear parts of seats anchored to the vehicle

5.7.1.   Requirements

5.7.1.1.   The surface of the rear parts of seats shall exhibit no dangerous roughness or sharp edges likely to increase the risk or severity of injury to the occupants. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.7.1.1).

5.7.1.2.   Except as provided in paragraphs 5.7.1.2.1, 5.7.1.2.2, and 5.7.1.2.3 below, that part of the back of the front seat which is in the head-impact zone, described in Annex 1 of this Regulation, shall be energy-dissipating, as prescribed in Annex IV to this Regulation. For determining the head-impact zone the front seats shall, if they are adjustable, be in the rearmost driving position with their backs inclined as near as possible to 25 ° unless indicated otherwise by the manufacturer. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.7.1.2).

5.7.1.2.1.

In the case of separate front seats, the rear passengers’ head-impact zone shall extend for 10 cm on either side of the seat centre-line, in the top part of the rear of the seat-back. 5.7.1.2.1.1. In the case of seats fitted with head-restraints each test shall be carried out with the head-restraint in the lowest position and at a point situated on the vertical line passing through the centre of the head-restraint. 5.7.1.2.1.2. In the case of a seat which is designed to be fitted in several types of vehicle, the impact zone shall be determined by the vehicle whose rearmost driving position is, of each of the types considered, the least favourable; the resultant impact zone will be deemed adequate for the other types.

5.7.1.2.2.

In the case of front bench seats, the impact zone shall extend between the longitudinal vertical planes 10 cm outboard of the centre line of each designated outboard seating position. The centre line of each outboard seating position of a bench seat shall be specified by the manufacturer.

5.7.1.2.3.

In the head impact zone outside the limits prescribed in paragraphs 5.7.1.2.1 to 5.7.1.2.2, inclusive, the seat frame structure shall be padded to avoid direct contact of the head with it: and, in these zones, shall have a radius of curvature of at least 5 mm. These parts may satisfy the energy dissipation requirements specified in Annex IV to this Regulation. (see Annex X, explanatory notes, paragraph 5.7.1.2.3).

5.7.2.   These requirements shall not apply to the rearmost seats, to seats facing sideways or rearwards, to back-to-back seats or to folding (tip-up) seats. If the impact zones of the seats, head-restraints and their supports contain parts covered with material softer than 50 shore A hardness, the above requirements, with the exception of those relating to energy dissipation described in Annex IV to this Regulation, shall apply only to the rigid parts.

5.7.3.   The requirements of paragraph 5. 7 shall be considered to be satisfied in the case of rear parts of seats that are part of a vehicle type approved under Regulation No 17 (03 series of amendments or later).

5.8.   Power-operation of windows, roof-panel systems and partition systems

5.8.1.   The requirements below apply to power-operation of windows/roof-panel systems/partition systems to minimize the possibility of injuries caused by accidental or improper operation.

5.8.2.   Normal operating requirements

Except as provided in paragraph 5.8.3, power-operated windows/roof-panel systems/ partition systems may be closed under one or more of the following conditions:

5.8.2.1.

when the ignition key is inserted in the ignition control in any position of use or in an equivalent condition in case of a non mechanical device;

5.8.2.2.

when the power key has been used to activate the power supply to the power operated windows, partitions or roof panel systems;

5.8.2.3.

by muscular force unassisted by power supply of the vehicle;

5.8.2.4.

on continuous activation of a closing system located on the exterior of the vehicle;

5.8.2.5.

during the interval of time between the moment the ignition has been switched off or the ignition key has been removed, or an equivalent condition has happened in case of a non-mechanical device, and the moment that neither of the two front doors has been opened sufficiently to permit egress of occupants;

5.8.2.6.

when the closing movement of a power-operated window, roof panel or partition starts at an opening not exceeding 4 mm;

5.8.2.7.

when the power-operated window of a vehicle’s door without an upper door frame closes automatically whenever the pertinent door is closed. In this case the maximum opening, as defined in paragraph 2.15, prior to window closing, shall not exceed 12 mm.

5.8.2.8.

Remote closing shall be allowed by continuous activation of a remote actuation device, provided one of the following conditions is fulfilled: 5.8.2.8.1. the operation distance between the actuation device and the vehicle shall not exceed 6 m; 5.8.2.8.2. the operation distance between the actuation device and the vehicle shall not exceed 11 m, provided that the system requires a direct line of sight between the actuation device and the vehicle. This may be tested by placing an opaque surface between the actuation device and the vehicle.

5.8.2.9.

One-touch closing shall be permitted only for the power-operated window of the driver’s door and the roof panel, and only during the time when the ignition key is in the engine running position. It is also allowed when the engine has been switched off or the ignition key/power key has been removed, or an equivalent condition has happened in case of a non-mechanical device, as long as neither of the two front doors has been opened sufficiently to permit egress of occupants.

5.8.3.   Auto-reversing requirements

5.8.3.1.   None of the requirements in paragraph 5.8.2 shall apply, if a power-operated window/roof panel system/partition system is fitted with an auto-reversing device.

5.8.3.1.1.   This device shall reverse the window/roof panel/partition before it exerts a pinch force of more than 100 N within the opening of 200 mm to 4 mm above the top edge of a power-operated window/partition or in front of the leading edge of a sliding roof panel and at the trailing edge of a tilting roof panel.

5.8.3.1.2.   After such an auto-reversal, the window or roof panel or partition shall open to one of the following positions:

5.8.3.1.2.1.

a position that permits a semi-rigid cylindrical rod of a diameter of 200 mm to be placed through the opening at the same contact point(s) used to determine the reversing behaviour in paragraph 5.8.3.1.1;

5.8.3.1.2.2.

a position that represents at least the initial position before closing was initiated;

5.8.3.1.2.3.

a position at least 50 mm more open than the position at the time when reversing was initiated;

5.8.3.1.2.4.

in the case of tilting motion of a roof panel, the maximum angular opening.

5.8.3.1.3.   To check power-operated windows/roof-panel systems/partition systems with reversing devices as per paragraph 5.8.3.1.1, a measuring instrument/test rod shall be placed through the opening from the inside through to the exterior of the vehicle or, in the case of a partition system, from the rear part of the passenger compartment in such a way that the cylindrical surface of the rod contacts any part of the vehicle structure which forms the boundary of the window/roof-panel partition aperture. The force deflection ratio of the measuring instrument shall be 10 ± 0.5 N/mm. The positions of the test rod (normally located perpendicular to the edge of the window/roof panel/partition and perpendicular to the closing direction) are illustrated in Figure 1 of Annex IX to this Regulation. The position of the test rod relative to the edge and the closing direction shall be kept throughout the test.

5.8.4.   Switch location and operation

5.8.4.1.   Switches of power-operated windows/roof panels/partitions shall be located or operated in such a way to minimize the risk of accidental closing. The switches shall require continuous actuation for closing except in the case of paragraphs 5.8.2.7, 5.8.2.9 or 5.8.3.

5.8.4.2.   All rear-window, roof-panel and partition switches intended for use by occupants in the rear of the vehicle shall be capable of being switched off by a driver-controlled switch which is located forward of a vertical transverse plane passing through the R points of the front seats. The driver controlled switch is not required if a rear window, roof panel or partition is equipped with an auto-reversing device. If, however, the driver-controlled switch is present, it shall not be able to override the auto-reversing device or prevent lowering of the partition system.

The driver-controlled switch shall be located so as to minimize any accidental manipulating. It shall be identified by the symbol shown in Figure 2 of Annex 9 to this Regulation or an equivalent symbol, for example according to ISO 2575:1998 reproduced in Figure 3 of Annex IX to this Regulation.

5.8.5.   Protection devices

All protection devices which are used to prevent damage to the power source in the case of an overload or stalling shall reset themselves after the overload or the automatic switch off. After resetting of the protection devices, the motion in the closing direction shall not resume without a deliberate action on the control device.

5.8.6.   Handbook instructions

5.8.6.1.   The owner’s manual of the vehicle shall contain clear instructions relating to the power-operated window/roof panel/partition, including:

5.8.6.1.1.

explanation of possible consequences (entrapment).

5.8.6.1.2.

use of the driver-controlled switch.

5.8.6.1.3.

a ‘WARNING’ message indicating the dangers, particularly to children in the case of improper use/activation of the power-operated windows/roof-panel systems/partition systems. This information should indicate the responsibilities of the driver, including instructions for other occupants and the recommendation to leave the vehicle only if the ignition key/power key has been removed, or an equivalent condition has happened in case of a non mechanical device.

5.8.6.1.4.

a ‘WARNING’ message indicating that special care should be taken when using remote closing systems (see paragraph 5.8.2.8), for example to actuate it only when the operator has a clear view of the vehicle to be sure that nobody can be trapped by power-operated windows/roof-panel/partition equipment.

5.8.7.   If a power-operated window, roof-opening and/or partition system is installed in a vehicle that can not be tested according to the test procedures mentioned above the approval may be granted if the manufacturer can demonstrate an equal or improved protection-effect for the occupants.

5.9.   Other non-specified fittings

5.9.1.   The requirements of paragraph 5 shall apply to such fittings not mentioned in previous paragraphs which, within the meaning of the various requirements in paragraphs 5.1 to 5.7 and according to their location in the vehicle, are capable of being contacted by the occupants. If such parts are made of a material of less than 50 shore A hardness, mounted on a rigid support, the requirements in question shall apply only to the rigid support, or it can be demonstrated by sufficient tests according to the procedure described in Annex IV that the soft material of less than 50 shore A hardness will not be cut during the specified impact test. In that case the required radius shall apply to the soft surface only.

5.9.2.   For parts like a centre console, for example, or other components of the vehicle which belong to 5.9.1, it is not necessary to perform an energy dissipation test according to Annex IV to any component contactable by the device and procedure specified in Annex I if:

in the opinion of the Technical Service the occupant’s head is unlikely to contact the component, because of the restraint system(s) installed in the vehicle; or

because the manufacturer can prove the lack of such contact using, for example, the method described in Annex VIII, or any equivalent method.

6.   MODIFICATIONS AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL OF THE VEHICLE TYPE

6.1.   Every modification of the vehicle type shall be notified to the administrative department which approved the vehicle type. The department may then either:

6.1.1.

consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect and that in any case the vehicle still complies with the requirements; or

6.1.2.

require a further test report from the technical service responsible for conducting the tests.

6.2.   Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alterations, shall be communicated by the procedure specified in paragraphs 4.3 above to the Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation.

6.3.   The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex II to this Regulation.

7.   CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

7.1.   Every vehicle bearing an approval mark as prescribed under this Regulation shall conform to the vehicle type approved.

7.2.   In order to verify conformity as prescribed in paragraph 7.1 above, a vehicle bearing the approval mark required by this Regulation shall be taken from the series.

7.3.   Production shall be deemed to conform to the requirements of this Regulation if the requirements of paragraph 5 above are met.

8.   PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

8.1.   The approval granted in respect of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation, may be withdrawn if the requirement laid down in paragraph 7 above is not complied with, or if the vehicle fails to pass the checks prescribed in paragraph 7 above.

8.2.   If a Party to the Agreement which applies this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex II to this Regulation.

9.   PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of vehicle under this Regulation, he shall inform thereof the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication that authority shall inform the other Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation thereof by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex II to this Regulation.

10.   NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.

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(1)  1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for Belgium, 7 for Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Yugoslavia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant), 16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 24 for Ireland, 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia and 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 35-36 (vacant), 37 for Turkey, 38-39 (vacant), 40 for The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for the European Community (Approvals are granted by its Member States using their respective ECE symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia and 46 for Ukraine. Subsequent numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to the Agreement Concerning the Adoption of Uniform Technical Prescriptions for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/or be Used on Wheeled Vehicles and the Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals Granted on the Basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated by the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement.