The Motor Vehicles (Approval) Regulations 2001

2.  In particular, under all normal conditions likely to be encountered while the vehicle is being driven on a road, including when the vehicle is loaded to its maximum gross weight and the axle weight of any one axle equals its maximum permitted axle weight—

(a) it shall be possible to control the vehicle safely, taking account of the vehicle’s speed and acceleration capabilities;

(b) it shall at all times be possible for the driver, while controlling the vehicle, to have a full view of the road and traffic ahead of the vehicle;

(c) the clearance between any of the following parts of the vehicle, namely the tyres, wheels, other rotating components associated with the transmission of engine power or braking, moveable parts of the steering mechanism and fixed parts shall be sufficient to ensure no risk of fouling and the wheels and wheel fixings shall be compatible;

(d) the vehicle structure (chassis or integral chassis-body), shall be so designed and constructed as to withstand the forces and vibration to which it is likely to be subject;

(e) all entries and exits provided for the vehicle occupants (other than doors) shall be so designed as to allow easy and safe use.

(f) all aperture covers (other than doors) including tail gates, boot and bonnet lids, shall be capable of being securely latched in the fully closed position;

(g) the steering, suspension, axles and wheels shall be so designed, constructed and fitted as to withstand the forces and vibration to which they are likely to be subject;

(h) the fuel system, including the fuel tank, shall be so designed, constructed and fitted as to withstand the forces, vibration and corrosive environment to which it is likely to be subject. It shall also be so fitted as to avoid the risk of damage, such as abrasion, due to fouling of other parts, and to minimise the risk of fire in the event of any leakage of fuel. The fuel tank shall comply with regulation 39 of the Construction and Use Regulations, except that it need not be made of metal.

(i) the electrical system, including the battery, electrical components and wires, shall be securely attached to the vehicle. In particular, the maximum distance between attachments of wires, except those contained within hollow components, shall be 300 mm and wires shall be so fitted and protected as to avoid the risk of damage to insulation, such as abrasion. All components shall be so constructed and fitted as to minimise the risk of corrosion and fire.