General Information: Glossary

Some of the terms used in this Guide are explained here. 

• "General Certification (ABE)" -- Permit for driving on public roads for standard production vehicles or vehicle equipment. It is issued by the motor vehicle department for the Federal Republic of Germany and allows for registration in accordance with German law if the vehicle or vehicle equipment meets the German Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
• "Towing Weight" -- The towing weight specifies the maximum permitted weight that a vehicle may tow, depending on the type of trailer used (braked or unbraked).
• "EU Type Approval Number" -- A number for an EU type approval form that is issued by the type approval authority in an EU member country (in Germany, the German Federal Motor Vehicle Registration Agency) in accordance with EU guideline 70/156/EWG. It is used to issue an EU-wide license to operate a motor vehicle, motor vehicle equipment such as a lamp or a self-contained technical unit such as under ride protection.
• "Tongue Weight" -- The tongue weight specifies the maximum permitted weight that may be placed on the trailer hitch.