Hi Folks, The information on mirrors in the mag is not strictley correct, the following is the official line, extract from the Department of Transport on May 1st 2008, The requirements for caravan towing mirrors follow the vehicle requirements as defined in regulation 33 of the road vehicles (construction & use) regulations 1986. Regulation 33 requires that the mirrors comply with either the EC Directives (71/127/EEC or 2003/97/EC) or UNECE Regulation 46.
The current confusion is based on the fact that regulation 33 allows compiance with EC Directive 2003/97/EC. However, the requirements of this directive do not become compulsory for new cars until Jan 26th 2010. Therefore, if the towing is already in use, or newly purchased now- E marking is preferred (but not strictly required)
If a new car is purchased after Jan 26th 2010, then 2003/97/EC or UNECE Regulation 46 compliant caravan towing mirrors will be required for that vehicle, We assume that all caravan towing mirrors will comply with the new requirements by that time.
For those who want to be pedantic about the markings on the mirrors: 'e'
in a rectangle signifies approval to the EC Directives; and 'E' in a circle signifies approval to the UNECE Regulation.
Either of these markings is acceptable." hope tis clears up some of the confusion.
