What does my trailer need to be approved for 100 km/h?
For a vehicle combination to be permitted to travel at 100 km/h, the trailer must have its own 100 km/h approval. The following criteria must be met:
- Towing vehicle: maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg and fitted with ABS.
- Tyres: at least speed rating L (120 km/h) and no more than six years old. The age is indicated by a four-digit DOT number on the sidewall.
- Shock absorbers: braked trailers require hydraulic wheel shock absorbers.
- Sticker and documentation: 100 km/h sticker on the rear, with the approval entered.
Permissible gross weight of the trailer: This is calculated by multiplying the unladen weight of the towing vehicle by a factor:
| Trailer specifications | Factor |
|---|---|
| Unbraked, or braked without shock absorbers | 0.3 |
| Braked, with hydraulic wheel shock absorbers | 1.1 |
| braked, with shock absorbers and anti-sway clutch | 1.2 |
If the actual permissible gross vehicle weight exceeds the calculated value, the load must be reduced.
Suitable parts: Wheel shock absorbers for the 100 series type approval and anti-sway couplings.
The approval is registered by a testing body such as TÜV or DEKRA, and subsequently with the vehicle registration authority.
