Title: Harmonization of regulations can reduce burdens without impairing safety

Authors: R.J. Donohue

Addresses: Manager, International Regulations, Environmental Activities Staff, General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan, USA

Abstract: Different equipment and tests needed to meet differing safety regulations in countries throughout the world can increase the cost of motor vehicles and, indeed, prevent the marketing of some vehicles if the volumes are small. Harmonization of many of these regulations can minimize these costs without adversely affecting safety. This paper describes the regulatory bodies in the United States and Europe which develop regulations, and whose deliberations can lead to harmonizing the differences in their existing regulations. The costs associated with certain regulations (from the US viewpoint) such as exterior lighting, rear view mirrors, and safety belts is defined. Suggestions for human factors research and the analysis of accident statistics to demonstrate that harmonization of regulations will maintain safety value are presented. The paper closes with a brief discussion of certification and a recommendation for manufacturer|s certification.

Keywords: vehicle design; international regulations; regulation harmonisation; standards; safety regulations; vehicle safety.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1988.061517

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1988 Vol.9 No.4/5, pp.460 - 470

Published online: 26 May 2014 *

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