Is an RV Classified as a Passenger Vehicle or a Truck?
3 Answers
An RV is neither a passenger vehicle nor a truck. An RV is simply an RV. In China, it is defined as a motorhome. Dimensions of an RV: The most common length for RVs is 5995mm, as vehicles exceeding 6 meters must display a yellow license plate. Therefore, RVs are typically designed to be just under 6 meters in length, usually around 2 meters in width. Functions of an RV: An RV, also known as a 'home on wheels,' combines the features of both a 'home' and a 'vehicle.' However, its primary attribute is still that of a vehicle—a mobile unit equipped with essential home facilities. Origin of RVs: RVs were introduced from abroad as a fashionable type of vehicle. They come equipped with household facilities such as bedding, stoves, refrigerators, cabinets, sofas, dining tables and chairs, washing facilities, air conditioning, TVs, audio systems, and other furniture and appliances.
I've driven dozens of different sizes of RVs, and this is a pretty common question. Actually, the key lies in its design and registration type. Generally, RVs are divided into motorhomes and towable trailers. Motorhomes have living quarters built directly on the chassis, and most of these are registered as passenger vehicles, requiring just a standard Class C license to drive, just like private cars. Towable trailers are more complicated - some regions classify them as passenger vehicles, while others categorize them as trailers requiring additional license plate lights and reflective markings. But ultimately, RVs are primarily designed for living, not cargo hauling, so the vast majority are considered passenger vehicles. Whenever I've been stopped by traffic police, I've always shown them my passenger vehicle registration documents and never had any issues.
As an enthusiast of long-distance self-driving trips, I've also done my homework on the classification of RVs. Generally speaking, the common RVs that can accommodate people are basically classified as passenger vehicles. From a regulatory perspective, if the maximum allowable number of passengers exceeds 9, it must be registered as a large passenger vehicle, while common small self-propelled RVs are usually registered as small passenger vehicles with fewer than 5 seats. Although some special RVs may be modified from truck chassis, as long as the vehicle registration certificate states 'motorhome', it is considered a standard passenger vehicle. However, it's important to note that while towable RVs may be classified as trucks abroad, they are mainly categorized as passenger vehicles in China.
