Interpretation ID: aiam2578
Chairman
Video Research Corporation
Interstate Industrial Park
Riviera Beach
Florida 33404;
Dear Mr. Fleischman: This is in response to your letter of March 15, 1977, concernin Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard no. 114, *Theft Protection*, as it relates to a device you wish to market called 'Remote Auto-Start.'; Standard No. 114, *Theft Protection*, which applies to passenger cars requires that when the key is removed, normal activation of the car's engine and either steering or forward self-mobility of the car is prevented (49 CFR 571.114, S4.1(a) and (b)). According to the material which you forwarded, your device results in the following characteristics which differ from what we consider to be normal activation:; >>>1. The engine deactivates when a door is opened. 2. The steering column and gear shift remains locked until the actua key is inserted.; 3. The logic circuitry deactivates the engine after 15 minutes.<<< Consequently, we have determined that your device does not result in 'normal' activation of the car's engine.; Thus, it appears that the characteristics of the 'Remote Auto-Start system are not in conflict with Standard No. 114.; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Acting Chief Counsel