ROAD VEHICLE DESIGN STANDARDS. IN: HANDBOOK OF TRANSPORT SYSTEMS AND TRAFFIC CONTROL

Vehicle design standards are intended to reduce the unwanted impacts of transport systems such as road trauma and pollution, as well as to meet consumer and industry expectations. They also provide, when complemented by the necessary regulatory framework, a set of legal standards with which vehicles in a market must comply. This paper addresses the origin of design standards, how standards differ by country, the harmonization of international design standards, the development of standards and enforcement. The development and impact of design standards in Australia are highlighted.