What does vehicle type M1 mean?
4 Answers
Vehicle type M1 refers to passenger vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight exceeding 1 ton, and no more than 8 passenger seats in addition to the driver's seat. Below is an introduction to more vehicle types: 1. M2 category vehicles: Passenger vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight not exceeding 5 tons, and more than 8 passenger seats in addition to the driver's seat. 2. M3 category vehicles – Passenger vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight >5 tons. 3. N1 category vehicles – Goods vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight not exceeding 3.5 tons. 4. N2 category vehicles – Goods vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight exceeding 3.5 tons but not exceeding 12 tons. 5. N3 category vehicles – Goods vehicles with at least 4 wheels, or 3 wheels with a manufacturer's maximum gross weight >12 tons.
Last week, while helping a friend look at cars, I specifically researched this. The M1 in vehicle types actually refers to the classification of passenger vehicles. Simply put, it includes passenger vehicles with no more than nine seats, including the driver's seat. The private cars, SUVs, and MPVs we usually drive mostly fall into this category. This classification mainly affects vehicle registration and annual inspection standards. I noticed at the DMV last time that this classification is marked on the green book. For example, ride-hailing drivers also need to pay special attention, as the platform requires the vehicle to be M1-class to register. Understanding this classification is quite important when choosing a car, especially for friends planning to buy a seven-seater—make sure to count the number of seats clearly.
Last time during the vehicle inspection, the technician taught me to recognize this classification - M1 category refers to vehicles primarily designed for passenger transport. According to the standards, these include vehicles with no more than nine seats including the driver's seat, such as kindergarten shuttle buses and small company commuter vehicles. The most crucial aspect is that the vehicle's purpose is clearly defined as passenger transport, which is completely different from N-category goods vehicles. My neighbor recently bought a 7-seater business van, and the vehicle registration certificate clearly marks it as M1. This classification directly affects the mandatory scrapping period, as private M1 vehicles can be used for a longer duration. If you're buying a used car with modified seating, it's best to check the registration details to avoid classification discrepancies.
The salesperson explained to me when buying a car that M1 refers to motor vehicles primarily designed for passenger transport, with a maximum seating capacity of 9 people including the driver. Many families now purchase six-seater SUVs or dad-mobiles, which are typical M1 vehicles. This classification determines the safety equipment requirements, such as mandatory seat belt reminder devices. Last year, when I accompanied a friend to pick up an MPV, I noticed the prominent M1 marking on the MIIT announcement page. Compared to N-category vehicles designed for cargo transport, this type of vehicle has annual inspection items that focus more on passenger safety checks.
