Ute set for class exemption
The NZTA is proposing a class exemption that would allow the 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty to tow trailers weighing up to 4500kg in New Zealand.
Consultation on the matter is under way as Brent Alderton, director of land transport, can issue class exemptions where, among other things, he believes it is appropriate given the effectiveness, efficiency and safety of the land transport system.
The Super Duty, pictured, has a gross vehicle mass of 4500kg and is capable of towing the same weight.
It has a towing connection that meets Australian safety standards but not New Zealand standards, the NZTA notes. It is also manufactured with an integrated trailer brake controller system, which is part of the vehicle.
The agency is suggesting exempting the ute from clauses 4.4(1) and 4.4(5) of the Land Transport Rule: Heavy Vehicles 2004 (Rule 31002), which cover drawbeam and towbar standards, and clause 2.3(1)(b) of the Land Transport Rule: Heavy-vehicle Brakes 2006 (Rule 32015) that relates to service brakes.
“In this case, the drawbeam/towbar on the 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty model meets Australian safety standards but not New Zealand standards, due to the countries’ different regulatory settings and standards,” explains the NZTA.
“It also has a trailer brake controller system that allows the driver to adjust the brake force of the trailer while driving. While this system is accepted in Australia, it’s only accepted in New Zealand for light vehicles.
“This means that even though this make and model of vehicle can be driven in New Zealand, it can’t tow a trailer without certification despite being designed to tow trailers weighing up to 4,500kg.”
After considering all relevant factors, including safety implications, Alderton has made a preliminary decision to grant an exemption that would allow the model to use standard ADR62/02 for its drawbeam/towbar certification, and to be fitted with a trailer brake controller device that is currently not permitted in New Zealand on heavy vehicles.
“The director would also require additional safety measures,” the NZTA continues. “This includes requiring Ford to undertake dynamic (fatigue) testing of the towbar/drawbeam for the applied ratings, and ensuring the correct brake certification is obtained for towing trailers weighing over 3,500kg.
“This would include a requirement that buyers sign a declaration confirming their understanding of this, and the addition of an indelible label being affixed to the drawbeam/towbar advising that brake certification is required for towing a trailer over 3500kg gross vehicle mass.”
The NZTA has been seeking feedback, with a deadline of December 10, on whether any other conditions should be added to the proposed exemption and any data or insights on the level of safety risk the plans may create.
It is also keen for information about any vehicles likely to enter New Zealand that are similar to those covered by the proposed exemption but may not fall within the change.
