Chassis Type Approval (CTA): What is it, How to Get It, and Why is It Needed?

Chassis Type Approval (CTA) is an important document that confirms that the chassis of a vehicle meets the established safety standards and requirements. This certification process is necessary for a vehicle to be allowed to operate on public roads. CTA ensures that the chassis meets all the necessary technical and environmental standards, ensuring the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

Chassis, in this context, is understood as the basic platform of the vehicle, including:

1. Frame or monocoque body: The main structure that provides strength and rigidity.
2. Suspension: Ensures a smooth ride and control.
3. Brake system: Ensures safe braking.
4. Steering: Allows the driver to control the direction of travel.
5. Transmission: Transfers torque from the engine to the wheels.
6. Safety-related electrical equipment: For example, ABS, ESP, etc.

It is important to understand that the CTA does not apply to superstructures (body, tank, platform, etc.) that are installed on the chassis. Superstructures require separate certification.

Why do you need Chassis Type Approval?

CTA plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of vehicles, as well as in protecting consumer rights. Its presence guarantees that the chassis:

1. Meets safety requirements: Has passed the necessary tests and meets the standards for strength, stability, braking and other parameters.
2. Complies with environmental standards: Does not have a negative impact on the environment.
3. Meets technical requirements: Ensures reliable and durable operation.
4. Legal manufactured and imported: Confirms the legality of the origin of the chassis.

Without CTA, the manufacturer or importer does not have the right to release the chassis into circulation and sell them in the territory of the country where this requirement applies. This can lead to fines, confiscation of products and even criminal liability.

How to get Chassis Type Approval?

The process of obtaining a Type Approval Certificate can be complex and time-consuming, requiring significant preparation and cooperation with accredited organizations. In general, it includes the following steps:

1. Submission of an application to an accredited certification body: The application is submitted to an organization authorized to certify the chassis.
2. Conducting tests: The accredited body conducts a series of tests on the chassis to verify its compliance with the requirements of the technical regulation. These tests may include:
3. Analysis of test results and technical documentation: The accredited body analyzes the test results and assesses the compliance of the chassis with the requirements of the technical regulation.
4. Issue of the Chassis Type Approval: If the chassis has successfully passed all tests and meets the requirements, the accredited body issues the Type Approval Certificate.

Who issues the Type Approval Certificate?

The Type Approval Certificate is issued by accredited certification bodies authorized to certify the chassis in accordance with the requirements of the technical regulations. Each country or economic union has its own bodies authorized to issue the Type Approval Certificate.

In conclusion

Chassis type approval is a mandatory document confirming the compliance of the vehicle chassis with the established safety and quality requirements. Obtaining it is a complex and labor-intensive process that requires serious preparation and cooperation with accredited organizations. However, the presence of CTA is a guarantee of the safety and reliability of the chassis, as well as a necessary condition for its legal production and sale.