Since July 1, 2020, a new national standard for road signs and markings has taken effect, bringing significant changes to the classification of motor vehicles, especially pickup trucks. If you own or plan to buy a pickup truck, understanding the definition of a pickup truck under this new standard is crucial, as it directly impacts your rights and obligations when participating in traffic. This article from Xe Tải Mỹ Đình will help you understand these changes and get the latest information on the definition of pickup trucks.
Defining Pickup Trucks Under the New Standard
According to the National Technical Regulation on Road Signs and Markings QCVN 41:2019, effective from July 1, 2020, automobiles are classified based on the Certificate of technical safety and environmental protection of road motor vehicles. A passenger car is defined as a vehicle carrying no more than 9 people (including the driver). So, what is the definition of a pickup truck? The key lies in the permissible payload of the vehicle.
Various pickup truck models that may no longer be classified as passenger cars under new regulations
The most significant difference compared to the old standard (QCVN 41:2016) is that pickup trucks and vans with a permissible payload of 950 kg or more will be officially classified as trucks. Previously, under the old standard, this threshold was 1,500 kg. This change means that many pickup truck models previously considered passenger cars will now have to comply with traffic regulations for trucks, especially regarding operating hours and prohibited routes in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
For example, consider the Ford Ranger pickup truck, one of the most popular models in Vietnam. Before July 1, 2020, many Ford Ranger versions, including the XLS version, were still considered passenger cars. However, under the new standard, depending on the payload specified in the vehicle registration certificate, some Ranger versions will be classified as trucks.
Payload capacity specifications on vehicle registration certificates for Ford Ranger XLS models, showing differences between 2015 and 2016
To clarify further, let’s look at a specific example of the Ford Ranger XLS. The 2013 production version has a permissible payload of 991 kg, and the 2015 version is 957 kg. According to the new regulations, both of these versions are no longer considered passenger cars when participating in traffic from July 1, 2020. Conversely, the 2016 production version with a payload of 827 kg is still considered a passenger car. This difference shows that just a small change in payload can lead to a change in vehicle classification and applicable regulations.
Are Small Pickup Trucks and Vans Affected?
So, does the new pickup truck definition affect all pickup truck models on the market? In reality, this new regulation has little impact on most common pickup truck models currently circulating in Vietnam. Most models such as Ford Ranger (some versions), Mazda BT-50, Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton, Chevrolet Colorado… usually have a permissible payload of less than 950 kg.
Common pickup trucks and small vans like the Kia Morning Van are generally less affected by the new regulations
Similarly, super-small van models, styled like passenger cars such as Kia Morning Van, Chevrolet Spark Van, usually have a very small payload, not exceeding 300 kg, so they are also not affected by the new regulations.
Light Truck Classification Also Changes
Not only pickup trucks, the new pickup truck definition also leads to changes in the classification of light trucks. Previously, the dividing line between light trucks and large trucks was 1.5 tons. However, from July 1, 2020, this number may be adjusted to 950 kg, due to the impact of the new regulations on pickup trucks.
Reclassification of light trucks with a new weight threshold of 0.95 tons, down from 1.5 tons, as depicted in a diagram
Some small van trucks, super-light trucks such as Suzuki Super Carry Van, Super Carry Pro… are still considered passenger cars due to their payload being under 950 kg. Meanwhile, truck and van models from Dongben, Thaco Towner, which may have been considered passenger cars before, now with a payload of over 950 kg (e.g., Thaco Towner 800, 990, Dongben T30), will be classified as trucks and subject to restrictions on routes and operating hours in the city.
Conclusion: The new regulation QCVN 41:2019 has provided a clearer definition of pickup trucks, based on permissible payload. Understanding the definition of a pickup truck is very important for vehicle users, especially pickup truck and van owners, to comply with traffic laws and avoid unnecessary violations. If you have any questions related to this regulation, please contact Xe Tải Mỹ Đình for detailed advice.
