http://www.ntta.co.uk/law/towbars/type_approva.htm Extract:In the U.K, with effect from 1st August 1998 all Passenger Carrying Vehicles up to 3500kgs Gross Vehicle Weight (M1 Vehicles) can only be fitted with European Type Approved towbars if the vehicle has received European Whole Vehicle Type Approval. Non M1 vehicles, light commercial vehicles and private imports from outside the EEC do not need Approved Towbars; however, most car and some Light Commercial Vehicles such as vans commonly use the Type Approved Towbar http://www.autowbars.co.uk/ec94_20.htmExtract:Excluded Vehicles:Vans, Pick-ups, Crew-cabs, Chassis cabs, Motorhomes, Certain imported vehicles, any vehicle registered prior to 1.8.98, and certain end of production vehicles not bearing an EWTA certificate.http://www.towsure.co.uk/tow_faq.htmExtract:Q "Does the EC directive apply to all types of towbar ?" A YES, if the vehicle was registered on or after August 1st 1998 the towbar must be type approved unless the towbar is to be fitted to the following :Van or any other similiar goods vehiclesChassis cabs and tippersPick-up trucks (inc double cabs which have 4 doors, 4/5 seats) Motorhomes or motor caravan conversionsAny vehicle classed as a motorcycleVehicles not for use on public roads In some cases personally imported vehicles can be exempt from EC94/20 depending on where in the world they were imported from.