Interpretation ID: nht94-5.10

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: December 15, 1994

FROM: Tom Hindson

TO: Philip Recht -- Chief Counsel, NHTSA

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO 4/24/95 LETTER FROM PHILIP RECHT TO TOM HINDSON (A43; VSA 102(4))

TEXT: Dear Mr. Recht,

I have been told by other people within DOT that I should address my request to you. My company intends to develop and market a consumer device that fits on automobiles. It will be sold by dealers at time of new car purchase and will be installed by th e dealer. Basically it is comprised on a slim container holding a light weight car cover which will be bolted underneath the rear bumper and trunk of the automobile. By means of a handle(wand) and an electric motor which is supplied with power from the car's battery, the cover is propelled out of the container by means of motor driven rollers. The cover is then guided over the car and attached to the front bumper. When ready to leave, the handle switch is pressed and the whole operation reverses to that the cover is pulled off the car and back into the sealed container.

The system does NOT:

1. Invade any fuel storage. 2. Invade any EPA device 3. Hinder the driver in any way. 4. Pose any ground clearance problems 5. Pose any electrical problems. A simple battery lead and rugged conduit is used.

Please consider this system and give us a Letter of Interpretation concerning our compliance with any applicable safety standards. If more information is required please let me know.

Thanks very much for your help.

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