[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 96 (Thursday, May 19, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28843-28852]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-9708]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

49 CFR Parts 541, 543, and 545

[Docket No. NHTSA-2005-21233]
RIN 2127-AJ51


Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard

AGENCY: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 
Department of Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; response to petitions for reconsideration.

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SUMMARY: This final rule responds to petitions for reconsideration of 
the agency's newly expanded parts marking requirements. The Anti Car 
Theft Act of 1992 required NHTSA to conduct a rulemaking to extend the 
parts marking requirements to below median theft rate passenger cars 
and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating 
of 6,000 pounds or less, unless the Attorney General found that such a 
requirement would not substantially inhibit chop shop operations and 
motor vehicle thefts. The Attorney General did not make such a finding. 
Accordingly, in a final rule published in April 2004, NHTSA extended 
parts marking requirements to these vehicles. This document responds to 
petitions for reconsideration of the April 2004 final rule. 
Specifically, we are amending our procedures in order to begin 
processing parts marking exemption petitions prior to the effective 
date, and we are phasing-in the new requirements over a two-year 
period.

DATES: The amendments to Sections 541.3, 543.3, and 543.5, which were 
published at 69 FR 17960, April 6, 2004, as amended by 69 FR 31412, 
June 22, 2004, are hereby withdrawn. Except for the amendment to 
Section 543.3, this final rule is effective September 1, 2006. The 
amendment to Section 543.3 is effective July 18, 2005. Voluntary 
compliance is permitted before that time. If you wish to submit a 
petition for reconsideration of this rule, your petition must be 
received by July 5, 2005.

ADDRESSES: Petitions for reconsideration should refer to the docket 
number and be submitted to: Administrator, Room 5220, National Highway 
Traffic Safety Administration, 400 7th Street, SW., Washington, DC 
20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For technical and policy issues, you 
may contact Mary Versailles, Office of International Policy, Fuel 
Economy and Consumer Programs, (Telephone: 202-366-2057) (Fax: 202-493-
2290). [email protected].
    For legal issues, you may contact George Feygin, Office of Chief 
Counsel (Telephone: 202-366-2992) (Fax: 202-366-3820). 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

[[Page 28844]]

Table of Contents

I. Summary of Decision
II. Background
III. Final Rule
IV. Petitions for Reconsideration
V. Response to Petitions
    A. Clarification of Procedures for Selecting New Vehicle Lines 
Subject to the Theft Prevention Standard Before and After September 
1, 2006
    B. Procedures for Filing and Processing Exemptions Petitions for 
Vehicle Lines Not Subject to Parts Marking Requirements Until 
September 1, 2006
    C. Petition to Exclude Low-volume Vehicle Lines
    D. Petition to Temporarily Exclude Low Theft Vehicle Lines 
Equipped With Anti-theft Devices From the Requirements of the 
Standard
    E. Petition to Delay the Effective Date or Adopt a Phase-in
    F. Petition to Permit Parts Marking With Microdot Technology
    G. Petition to Require Parts Marking of Glazing
    H. Miscellaneous Issues
VI. Rulemaking Notices and Analyses
    A. Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures
    B. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. National Environmental Policy Act
    D. Executive Order 13132 (Federalism)
    E. Unfunded Mandates Act
    F. Civil Justice Reform
    G. Paperwork Reduction Act
    H. Privacy Act
    I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act
VII. Regulatory Text

I. Summary of Decision

    After analyzing the petitions for reconsideration, this final rule 
makes the following changes and clarifications to NHTSA's expanded 
parts marking requirements:
     Manufacturers are not required to submit part 542 ``likely 
theft rate determinations'' for vehicle lines introduced prior to the 
September 1, 2006 effective date, if the manufacturers choose to 
voluntarily mark the new vehicle lines immediately after their 
introduction.
     Manufacturers are permitted to petition the agency to 
exempt low theft vehicle lines equipped with antitheft devices from the 
parts marking requirements 60 days after the publication of this 
document. Each manufacturer is eligible for one such exemption per 
model year, beginning with model year 2006.
     Vehicle lines with annual production of not more than 
3,500 vehicles are excluded from parts marking requirements because the 
benefits of marking these vehicle lines would be of trivial or of no 
value. This exclusion applies to all vehicle manufacturers regardless 
of overall production volume.
     The agency is adopting a phase-in of the new parts marking 
requirements over a two-year period. Specifically, car lines 
representing not less than 50% of a manufacturer's production of 
vehicle lines that were not subject to parts marking requirements 
before September 1, 2006, must be marked effective September 1, 2006. 
The remaining vehicle lines must be marked effective September 1, 2007. 
Vehicle lines already subject to parts marking requirements are 
unaffected by this phase-in.
    The agency is denying petitions to indefinitely exclude all low 
theft vehicle lines equipped with anti-theft devices from the 
requirements of the standard. We are also denying petitions to require 
glazing marking, and to allow parts marking using the microdot 
technology.

II. Background

    49 CFR part 541, Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard, 
requires that major parts \1\ of certain motor vehicle lines be 
indelibly marked with labels containing the Vehicle Identification 
Numbers (VINs).\2\ This parts making requirement reduces the incidence 
of motor vehicle thefts by facilitating the tracing and recovery of 
parts from stolen vehicles, and prosecuting thieves, chop shop 
operators, and stolen part dealers.
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    \1\ The list of major parts includes: engine, transmission, 
hood, fenders, side and rear doors (including sliding and cargo 
doors and decklids, tailgates, or hatchbacks, whichever is present), 
bumpers, quarter panels, and pickup boxes and/or cargo boxes. See 49 
CFR 541.5.
    \2\ The labels cannot be removed without becoming torn or 
rendering the number on the label illegible. If removed, the label 
must leave a residue on the part so that investigators will have 
evidence that a label was originally present. Alteration of the 
number on the label must leave traces of the original number or 
otherwise visibly alter the appearance of the label material. A 
replacement major part must also be marked with the registered 
trademark of the manufacturer of the replacement part, or some other 
unique identifier, and the letter ``R''.
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    The standard currently applies to high theft \3\ passenger car 
lines; high theft multipurpose passenger vehicle (MPV) lines (i.e., 
passenger vans and sport utility vehicles) with a gross vehicle weight 
rating (GVWR) of 6,000 pounds or less; and high theft light duty truck 
(LDT) lines (i.e., pickup trucks and cargo vans) with a GVWR of 6,000 
pounds or less. The standard also applies to passenger cars and MPVs 
that are not high theft, but have major parts that are interchangeable 
with major parts of high theft rate vehicle lines.\4\ Finally, the 
standard applies to a small group of below median theft rate (low 
theft) passenger car and MPV lines that are not otherwise subject to 
parts marking requirements.\5\
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    \3\ ``High theft'' means a vehicle line that has or is likely to 
have a theft rate greater than the median theft rate for all new 
vehicles in the 2-year period covering calendar years 1990 and 1991. 
See 49 U.S.C. 33104(a)(1). ``Low theft'' means a vehicle line that 
has or is likely to have a sub-median theft rate.
    \4\ See 49 U.S.C. 33104(a)(1)(C).
    \5\ See appendix B to 49 CFR part 541.
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    Manufacturers are permitted to petition NHTSA for an exemption from 
the parts marking requirements for one vehicle line per model year. A 
vehicle line is eligible for an exemption if it is fitted with an 
antitheft device as standard equipment. The agency grants the exemption 
if it determines that the devices are likely to be as effective in 
reducing and deterring motor vehicle theft as compliance with the parts 
marking requirements.\6\
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    \6\ See 49 CFR part 543.
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    The Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 (the 1992 Theft Act) \7\ required 
the Attorney General to conduct an initial review of effectiveness and 
make a finding requiring that the Secretary of Transportation expand 
the parts marking requirement to vehicle lines not subject to the 
current parts marking requirements (except LTDs), unless the Attorney 
General found instead that extending the requirement would not 
substantially inhibit chop shop operations and motor vehicle theft.\8\ 
In effect, Congress created a rebuttable presumption, i.e., parts 
marking should be expanded unless the Attorney General was able to make 
a finding against the effectiveness of parts marking. The Attorney 
General did not make such a finding, and instead concluded that the 
parts marking requirement should be expanded.\9\ In accordance with the 
statutory mandate of the 1992 Theft Act, we published a final rule in 
April 2004 that extended parts marking requirements to the remaining 
vehicle lines. That document is described below.
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    \7\ See Public Law 102-519. October 25, 1992, codified in 49 
U.S.C. chapter 331. Theft Prevention.
    \8\ See 49 U.S.C. 33103(c).
    \9\ Attorney General's Initial Review of Effectiveness is 
entitled ``The Initial Report.'' See Docket No. NHTSA-2002-12231-5.
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III. Final Rule

    On April 6, 2004, the agency published in the Federal Register (69 
FR 17960) a final rule \10\ extending the parts marking requirements to 
certain vehicle lines that were not previously subject to these 
requirements: (1) All low theft passenger car lines; (2) all low theft 
MPV lines with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,000 pounds

[[Page 28845]]

or less; and (3) low theft LDT lines with a GVWR of 6,000 pounds or 
less that have major parts that are interchangeable with a majority of 
the covered major parts of passenger cars or MPVs described above.\11\ 
The high theft vehicle lines that were previously exempted under 49 CFR 
part 543 on the grounds that they are equipped with a qualifying anti-
theft device as standard equipment were unaffected by the April 2004 
final rule. The agency also stated that it would continue to grant 
exemptions for one vehicle line per model year. The final rule is 
effective September 1, 2006.
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    \10\ See Docket No. NHTSA-2002-12231-34.
    \11\ Low theft rate LDTs which do not have major parts that are 
interchangeable with MPVs or passenger cars are not subject to parts 
marking requirements.
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IV. Petitions for Reconsideration

    The agency received five petitions for reconsideration of the April 
2004 final rule from the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers 
(Alliance), DaimlerChrysler Corporation (DCX), DataDot Technology USA, 
Inc. (DataDot), Retainagroup, and Association of International 
Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM).\12\ Further, the agency received 
several additional comments and requests for legal interpretation 
pertaining to the new parts marking requirements. We addressed some of 
these requests by issuing letters of interpretation, and promised to 
address other questions when we issued this document.
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    \12\ These petitions are available online at http://dms.dot.gov/search/searchFormSimple.cfm (Docket No. NHTSA-2002-12231).
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    The following issues were raised in the petitions:
     Alliance petitioned the agency to immediately begin 
accepting and processing part 543 parts marking exemption petitions for 
vehicles that would become subject to parts marking requirements on 
September 1, 2006.
     Alliance petitioned the agency to clarify the procedures 
for selecting vehicles subject to the parts marking requirements before 
and after September 1, 2006.
     DCX and Alliance petitioned the agency to exclude low-
volume vehicle lines from the requirements of the standard, regardless 
of the size of the vehicle manufacturer.
     Alliance petitioned the agency to extend the lead-time for 
one year, or in alternative, to implement a phase-in.
     DCX petitioned the agency to temporarily exclude low theft 
vehicle lines with standard equipment antitheft devices from the 
requirements of the standard.
     DataDot petitioned the agency to allow a more permanent 
method of marking vehicles using microdot technology.
     Retainagroup petitioned the agency to require parts 
marking of glazing.
     AIAM requested that NHTSA correct two typographical errors 
in the regulatory text of the April 2004 final rule where the agency 
incorrectly stated the effective date of the new requirements.\13\
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    \13\ A correction notice addressing this petition was published 
June 2, 2004 (see 69 FR 34612).
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    The following issues were raised in letters and e-mails requesting 
legal interpretations and comments to the docket:
     Mr. Michael Finkelstein (on behalf of Mazda Motor Company) 
asked whether the agency would process petitions to exempt low theft 
vehicle lines from parts marking requirements prior to the September 1, 
2006 effective date; and whether multiple exemption petitions before 
September 1, 2006 were permissible. This is, in part, the same issue 
raised by Alliance.
     Mr. James C. Chen of Hogan & Hartson asked for a 
clarification of two issues related to low theft rate LDT lines that 
will become subject to parts marking requirements because they have a 
majority of major parts that are interchangeable with major parts of 
passenger cars or MPVs subject to parts marking requirements.
     Mr. Steven Jonas of Volkswagen (VW) asked if the expanded 
parts marking requirements applied to passenger cars with a gross 
vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 6,000 pounds. Mr. Jonas also 
asked about ``carryover'' of part 543 exemptions to subsequent model 
year vehicle lines.

V. Response to Petitions

A. Clarification of Procedures for Selecting New Vehicle Lines Subject 
to Parts Marking Requirements Before and After September 1, 2006

    49 CFR 542.1 sets forth the procedures for determining whether a 
new vehicle line is likely to have a high theft rate and is therefore 
subject to current parts marking requirements.
    First, manufacturers employ criteria in part 541 appendix C to 
evaluate new lines and determine whether the new line is likely to be 
high theft. Next, the manufacturers submit their conclusions (likely 
theft rate determination), along with underlying factual information, 
to NHTSA not less than 15 months prior to introduction of the new 
vehicle line in question. The agency then independently evaluates the 
new vehicle line (using the same criteria in part 541 appendix C) and 
informs the manufacturer by letter if the agency agrees with 
manufacturer's conclusions as to the likely theft rate of the new 
vehicle line.
    Alliance petitioned the agency to clarify the procedures in Sec.  
542.1 as they apply to vehicle lines introduced before and after 
September 1, 2006. Specifically, Alliance asked whether a manufacturer 
must make the likely theft rate determination for vehicle lines being 
introduced several months prior to the September 1, 2006 effective date 
of the extended parts marking requirements. For example, Alliance asked 
if the manufacturers are required to evaluate the likely theft rate of 
a new line being introduced in June of 2006, knowing that this vehicle 
line would become subject to parts marking requirements regardless of 
the theft rate several months later. Alliance asked that the agency 
amend the standard so that likely theft rate determination submissions 
are not required for vehicle lines which will become subject to parts 
marking requirements shortly after their introduction.
    We agree that in situations where a manufacturer introducing a new 
vehicle line before September 1, 2006 chooses to mark that vehicle line 
immediately, there is no reason to require the manufacturer to make the 
likely theft rate determination submission to NHTSA. We believe that 
the majority of manufacturers planning to introduce new vehicle lines 
shortly before the September 1, 2006 date would choose to mark their 
new vehicle lines immediately, rather than using their resources to 
submit the likely theft rate determination that, at best, would result 
in only temporary relief from the parts marking requirements. However, 
a manufacturer cannot sell unmarked vehicles before September 1, 2006, 
without having submitted the likely theft rate determination in 
accordance with 49 CFR 542.1. If the manufacturer introducing a new 
vehicle line before September 1, 2006 does not wish to voluntarily mark 
the subject vehicle line immediately, the manufacturer must submit the 
likely theft rate determination to NHTSA in accordance with 49 CFR 
542.1.
    Because after September 1, 2006, all passenger cars and MPVs will 
be subject to parts marking requirements, the likely theft rate 
determination submissions will be required for only LDTs with a GVWR of 
6,000 pounds or less. This is because, with certain limitations, low 
theft LDT are not subject to parts marking requirements.

[[Page 28846]]

B. Procedures for Filing and Processing Part 543 Exemption Petitions 
for Existing Vehicle Lines Not Subject to Parts Marking Requirements 
Until September 1, 2006

    Currently, 49 CFR 543.1 sets forth the procedures for filing and 
processing petitions to exempt high theft vehicle lines from the parts 
marking requirements. Manufacturers are allowed to petition NHTSA for 
one high theft vehicle line per model year. A vehicle line is eligible 
for an exemption if it is fitted with an antitheft device as standard 
equipment. The agency grants the exemption if it determines that the 
devices are likely to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor 
vehicle theft as compliance with the parts marking requirements.
    Alliance and Michael Finkelstein petitioned the agency to amend the 
part 543 procedures in order to allow filing and processing exemptions 
for existing vehicle lines, equipped with qualifying antitheft devices, 
that will become subject to parts marking requirements on September 1, 
2006, but are not subject to current parts marking requirements because 
they have been previously determined to be low theft. Specifically, 
petitioners asked the agency to amend the standard such that the 
vehicle manufacturer would be able to obtain part 543 exemptions for 
these vehicle lines prior to September 1, 2006.
    Alliance argued that there is no statutory impediment to allowing 
manufacturers to file exemptions for vehicle lines that would not 
become subject to parts marking requirements until September 1, 2006. 
Further, Alliance argued that amending part 543 procedures is 
consistent with the purpose of the regulation because it encourages 
installation of antitheft devices on more vehicles.
    NHTSA agrees with the petitioner's arguments and also notes that 
requiring the manufacturers to mark vehicles which the agency may soon 
thereafter decide are eligible for a part 543 exemption would result in 
an unnecessary financial burden upon the manufacturers. The costs 
associated with marking a vehicle line that was not previously subject 
to parts marking requirements are not insignificant. These costs would 
be especially high if marking was required for only a short period of 
time, because the agency would later agree to exempt that vehicle line. 
For example, there is potential for situations where a manufacturer 
would only have to mark a vehicle line for several weeks or months 
after September 1, 2006, while the agency reviewed its part 543 
petition for exemption. A better solution is to review part 543 
exemption petitions before the vehicle lines not classified as high 
theft, become subject to parts marking requirements.
    Therefore, the agency is amending part 543 to allow vehicle 
manufacturers to file petitions to exempt vehicle lines (equipped with 
qualifying antitheft devices) that will become subject to parts marking 
requirements on September 1, 2006. Affected manufacturers may begin 
filing part 543 petitions 60 days after the publication of this final 
rule. The agency will begin processing these petitions immediately 
thereafter.
    We note that, as discussed above, each manufacturer is eligible for 
one part 543 exemption per model year.\14\ For vehicle lines not 
subject to current requirements, exemptions will be granted beginning 
with 2006 model year. That is, while part 543 petitions will be 
accepted and considered by the agency 60 days after the publication of 
this document, the manufacturers of existing low theft vehicle lines 
would be able to obtain only one exemption per model year, beginning 
with model year 2006 vehicles.
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    \14\ See Sec.  543.5(a).
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    In his e-mail, Michael Finkelstein asked whether a manufacturer of 
multiple low theft vehicle lines could apply for more than one part 543 
exemption before the September 1, 2006 effective date.\15\ 
Specifically, Michael Finkelstein asked if a manufacturer could obtain 
an exemption for a 2005 model year low theft vehicle line. Our answer 
is no.
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    \15\ See Docket No. NHTSA-2002-12231-41.
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    We would not consider it appropriate to grant exemptions for low 
theft 2005 model year vehicle lines because these vehicle lines are not 
subject to parts marking requirements; i.e., model year 2005 vehicles 
will not be in production on September 1, 2006. Thus, a 2005 model year 
low theft vehicle line is not eligible for a part 543 exemption.
    Because the new parts marking requirements become effective 
September 1, 2006, we anticipate that at least some 2006 model year 
vehicle lines will still be in production at that time. Accordingly, we 
believe it is appropriate to consider part 543 exemptions for low theft 
vehicle lines beginning with 2006 model year.
    In sum, the agency will begin accepting and processing part 543 
petitions for exemption of vehicle lines not subject to current parts 
marking requirements 60 days after the publication of this document. 
Each manufacturer of such vehicle lines is eligible for one exemption 
per model year, beginning with model year 2006.
    We note that vehicle manufacturers can continue to petition the 
agency to exempt high theft vehicle lines subject to current parts 
marking requirements. That is, high theft 2005 model year vehicle lines 
are eligible for a part 543 exemption if they are equipped with a 
qualifying antitheft device.\16\ As previously stated, beginning with 
2006 model year, each manufacturer is eligible for one exemption per 
model year, regardless of theft rate.
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    \16\ ``Qualifying'' means NHTSA determined that the device is 
likely to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor vehicle 
theft as compliance with the parts marking requirements.
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C. Petition to Exclude Low-volume Vehicle Lines

    The April 2004 final rule excluded manufacturers that sell fewer 
than 5,000 vehicles in the U.S. each year from the requirements of the 
standard. DCX and Alliance petitioned the agency to similarly exclude 
(in addition to small volume manufacturers described above) low-volume 
vehicle lines whose annual sales do not exceed 3,500. This exclusion 
would apply to low-volume vehicle lines produced by larger 
manufacturers. Examples of these low-volume vehicle lines include Dodge 
Viper, Maybach, Mercedes SLR, and Ford GT.
    Alliance argued that like the smaller manufacturers already 
exempted by the April 2004 final rule, the larger manufacturers also 
produce low-volume specialty vehicle lines that have low theft rates 
and high costs of parts marking because the vehicles are not 
manufactured on traditional assembly lines. Alliance noted that there 
is virtually no black market demand or chop shop interest in stolen 
parts from these vehicles. Further, the costs of marking low-volume 
vehicle lines are potentially as expensive as they are for small 
vehicle manufacturers exempted from the requirements.
    In support of the Alliance petition, DCX offered Dodge Viper as an 
example of a low-volume vehicle line produced by a large volume 
manufacturer. The Viper has a unique engine, chassis, and body panels 
that are not shared with other vehicles produced by DCX.\17\ Much like 
the manufacturers exempt from parts making, DCX assembles each Viper 
individually at a dedicated facility. DCX argued that implementing 
parts marking for a low volume vehicle line such as the Viper is 
equally as

[[Page 28847]]

burdensome for DCX as it is for the exempted manufacturers.
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    \17\ The Viper V10 powertrain is actually also used in a Dodge 
Ram SRT 10 pickup tuck, but that vehicle is also produced in very 
limited quantities (http://www.dodge.com/srt-10/index.html).
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    Alliance argued that NHTSA's theft data indicate that the theft 
rate of low-volume vehicle lines is lower than it is for other 
vehicles. DCX stated that between 1997 and 2002, 8,194 Dodge Vipers 
have been produced, and in that time period, there have been only six 
reported thefts.
    NHTSA agrees with the petitioners that the practical burdens of 
marking low-volume vehicle lines are significant for both small 
manufacturers and large manufacturers. This is because the fixed costs 
associated with implementing parts marking of low-volume vehicle lines 
are unique to those lines, since they are usually built in dedicated 
facilities and do not share assembly lines with other vehicles produced 
by larger manufacturers. As indicated by the Alliance, the fixed costs 
include finding a suitable supplier, investment in parts marking 
equipment, and process implementation for manufacturers who may have 
had no previous parts marking experience.
    In addition to these financial burdens, NHTSA notes that parts 
marking of low-volume vehicle lines is unlikely to reduce the incidence 
of motor vehicle thefts, facilitate recovery of stolen vehicle parts, 
or facilitate prosecution of chop shop operators because the vehicles 
that are manufactured in small quantities are generally not stolen for 
parts, the primary type of theft this standard is meant to address. In 
most instances, the vehicles in question are expensive and exotic cars. 
There is typically no market for stolen parts for such vehicles. 
Accordingly, it is unlikely that these vehicles would wind up in chop 
shops, even if they were stolen.
    We further note that parts marking of low-volume vehicle lines 
would have the potential to affect only a very small number of vehicle 
thefts. We estimate that there are 67 yearly thefts of vehicles 
produced in quantities of not more than 3,500. We note that some of the 
vehicles in that category are produced by small volume manufacturers 
already exempted from parts marking requirements. Thus, parts marking 
of low-volume vehicle lines would, at most, have the potential of 
affecting fewer than less than 67 motor vehicle thefts per year.
    In sum, NHTSA has decided that the benefits of marking these 
vehicles would be of trivial or of no value. Accordingly, the agency is 
exempting vehicle lines with 3,500 vehicles or less annually from the 
requirements.
    We note that case law indicates that in some situations, agencies 
have an implied authority to create exclusions based on de minimis 
circumstances.\18\ De minimis circumstances refer to situations where 
following the plain meaning of a statute would lead to ``a gain of 
trivial or no value.'' That is, the agency may go beyond the plain 
meaning of the statute in order to avoid a pointless expenditure of 
effort by regulated parties. Based on theft information available to 
NHTSA, we believe that this is one of these situations. That is, parts 
marking of low-volume vehicle lines would produce theft reduction gains 
of trivial or no value.
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    \18\ Alabama Power Co. v. Costle, 636 F.2d 323 at 360, 361 (DC 
Cir. 1980); see also Public Citizen v. Young, 831 F.2d 1108 at 1112 
(DC Cir. 1987); Environmental Def. Fund v. Environmental Protection 
Agency, 82 F.3d 451, 466 (DC Cir.1996).
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D. Petition to Temporarily Exclude Low Theft Vehicle Lines Equipped 
With Anti-Theft Devices From the Requirements of the Standard

    DCX petitioned the agency to exclude low theft vehicle lines 
equipped with anti-theft devices (as standard equipment) from the parts 
marking requirements until each such vehicle line is discontinued or 
undergoes a major redesign. Essentially, DCX argues that low theft 
vehicle lines that are equipped with anti-theft devices should be 
afforded the same treatment as high-theft vehicle lines that have been 
granted exemptions under part 543 \19\ because NHTSA determined that 
their antitheft devices are likely to be as effective in reducing and 
deterring motor vehicle theft as compliance with the parts marking 
requirements. DCX explains that this approach would in effect phase-in 
the new parts marking requirements, allowing the manufacturers to 
gradually expand parts marking to all affected vehicle lines.
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    \19\ Please see Section II, which discusses current exemption 
procedures.
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    DCX argues that this approach maintains equity in application of 
parts marking requirements, and would discourage manufacturers of low 
theft vehicle lines from removing effective antitheft devices from 
their vehicles. DCX explains that it voluntarily installed antitheft 
devices in its vehicle lines, and will now also have to mark the same 
vehicle lines. By contrast, manufacturers of high theft vehicle lines 
equipped with antitheft devices have in the past been able to obtain 
part 543 exemptions from parts marking requirements. DCX argues that 
without continued exclusion of low theft vehicle lines equipped with 
antitheft devices, manufacturers of low theft vehicles might determine 
that the cost of parts marking and standard anti-theft devices is too 
prohibitive. DCX states that the statutory language is broad enough to 
permit the agency to adopt this approach. We disagree for several 
reasons.
    DCX argues that the Theft Prevention statute says nothing that 
prevents or prohibits phasing-in the extension and does not specify any 
particular method by which the agency should implement the extension of 
parts marking requirements. By way of analogy and precedent, DCX also 
noted that although the Vehicle Safety Act does not expressly allow 
phase-ins, the agency has previously interpreted that Act to allow them 
for safety standards.
    While we believe that the relevant language in the Theft Prevention 
statute is broad enough to permit a fleet-wide phase-in to address 
practicability issues, the agency believes that it is otherwise limited 
in how it could implement the new requirements.
    First, 49 U.S.C. 33103(b) directed the agency to extend the parts 
marking requirements to vehicle lines that are not subject to the 
current parts marking requirements. While the statute explicitly 
excluded low theft LDTs, it made no similar exclusions for low theft 
vehicle lines equipped with antitheft devices, or any other classes of 
vehicles. The agency believes that if Congress had intended to exclude 
low theft vehicle lines equipped with antitheft devices from the parts 
marking requirements, it would have explicitly directed NHTSA to exempt 
such vehicles, as it did with LDTs. Accordingly, we conclude that 
Congress intended to extend parts marking requirements to low theft 
vehicle lines whether or not they are equipped with antitheft devices. 
This is contrary to the petitioner's suggestion that the agency could 
indefinitely exclude low theft vehicle lines equipped with antitheft 
devices from the requirements of the standard.
    Second, we note that 49 U.S.C. 33106(b) allows NHTSA to exempt one 
vehicle line per year, if the manufacturer installs an antitheft device 
as standard equipment, and NHTSA determines that the antitheft device 
is likely to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor vehicle 
theft as compliance with the part-marking requirements. We believe that 
because Congress retained our exemption authority in adopting the 1992 
amendments and narrowly limited the number of new exemptions, Congress 
did not deem antitheft devices to be functionally equivalent per se to 
parts marking, and did not intend the agency to provide an automatic, 
across-the-board exclusion to low theft vehicle

[[Page 28848]]

lines equipped with antitheft devices from the parts marking 
requirements. We believe that the narrow exemption provision is 
instructive because Congress could have substantially broadened that 
provision and directed NHTSA to begin immediately to exempt multiple 
low theft vehicle lines equipped with antitheft devices.
    Further, the agency has not had the opportunity to examine the 
effectiveness of antitheft devices installed on low theft vehicles. 
Even if, as suggested by DCX, the agency would be provided with a list 
of every low theft vehicle line equipped with an antitheft device, 
exempting all such vehicle lines would breach the statutory limit of 
one exemption per model year. We note also that there are practical 
limitations to the agency's ability to compare and examine antitheft 
devices and theft rates of all vehicle lines that will become subject 
to parts marking on September 1, 2006.
    While we cannot indefinitely exclude low theft vehicle lines 
equipped with antitheft devices by phasing in the new requirements, we 
can adopt a fleet-wide phase-in that follows a definite, fixed 
schedule.
    In considering what phase-in to adopt, the agency balanced the 
benefits of parts marking against the practical burdens associated with 
implementing parts marking for manufacturers that have not previously 
been required to mark any of their vehicle lines. In assessing the 
benefits, we are mindful of the presence of antitheft devices on some 
of the vehicle lines, although we would assess their effectiveness only 
in the context of a petition for exemption. As previously discussed, 
the burdens include the fixed costs of finding a suitable supplier, 
investment in parts marking equipment, and process implementation for 
manufacturers that have no previous parts marking experience. Thus, we 
want to implement the new requirements in a time frame that eliminates 
any basis for practicability concerns.\20\ To address this concern, we 
have decided to adopt a short (two-year) fleet-wide phase-in for the 
new parts marking requirements. This approach is described in the next 
section.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ We note that this analysis is limited to issues arising out 
of the Theft Prevention statute, and the agency would take a 
different approach to the issues related to practicability in the 
context of the Safety Act.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

E. Petition To Delay the Effective Date or Adopt a Phase-In

    DCX and Alliance petitioned the agency to delay the effective date 
or implement a limited phase-in, so that only 70% of each 
manufacturer's production would have to be marked by September 1, 2006, 
with the remaining 30% marked by September 1, 2007. While we decline to 
delay the effective date, for the reasons discussed in the previous 
section, the agency believes that a phase-in is warranted.
    NHTSA estimates that at least five manufacturers have multiple low 
theft vehicle lines affected by parts marking expansion. Because the 
second largest vehicle line for at least one of these manufacturers 
exceeds 30% of the total low theft vehicle production, the 70/100 
phase-in suggested by the Alliance and DCX is inappropriate because at 
least one manufacturer would still be required to mark both low theft 
vehicle lines. Instead, we are adopting a 50/50 phase-in.
    NHTSA cannot adopt a phase-in based solely on a percentage of the 
total vehicle production because this could result in manufacturers 
having to mark some, but not all vehicles in the same vehicle line. 
This, of course, would frustrate the purpose of parts marking because 
law enforcement personnel would be unable to ascertain whether the 
vehicle or vehicle part should have been marked. Accordingly, we are 
adopting a phase-in under which car lines representing not less than 
50% of a manufacturer's vehicle lines that were not subject to parts 
marking requirements before September 1, 2006, must be marked not later 
than September 1, 2006. The remaining vehicle lines must be marked not 
later than September 1, 2007. Vehicle lines already subject to parts 
marking requirements are unaffected by this phase-in.
    We note that, in addition to the phase-in, we assume that each 
manufacturer affected by this final rule will be able to obtain a part 
543 exemption from the parts marking requirement for the largest 
vehicle line equipped with a qualifying anti-theft device. The agency 
believes that together, the phase-in and the exemption opportunity will 
substantially lessen the burdens and allow the manufacturers sufficient 
flexibility in implementing the new parts marking requirements.

F. Request To Permit Parts Marking With Microdot Technology

    DataDot petitioned the agency to allow microdot marking of vehicles 
that are subject to parts marking requirements.\21\ Microdot technology 
enables vehicle manufacturers to spray microdots on different vehicle 
components. Each microdot is encoded with the VIN specific to that 
vehicle. Microdots are nearly invisible to the naked eye, but can be 
easily be found and identified with simple magnification.\22\ Each 
vehicle is sprayed with approximately 10,000 microdots.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ See Docket No. NHTSA-2002-42, 44, 46, 47.
    \22\ For more information on DataDot technology see http://www.mdatatech.com/about.htm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Microdot technology does not comply with current parts marking size 
and style requirements because the current standard mandates that the 
major vehicle parts listed in Sec.  541.5 are marked with the VIN of 
that vehicle lettered in block capitals and numerals not less than 
three thirty-seconds of an inch in height. DataDot petitioned the 
agency to allow the use of microdot technology as an alternative to 
traditional parts marking.
    The agency is unable to consider DataDot's request because a change 
to parts marking size and style requirements would be outside the scope 
of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM).\23\ That is, when the 
agency proposed to expand parts marking requirements in June of 2002, 
it did not propose to change the parts marking size and style. 
Therefore, NHTSA cannot change these requirements without first issuing 
a notice requesting public comment on that specific issue.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \23\ See 67 FR 43075 (June 26, 2002).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition, the agency would need to examine certain issues 
related to microdot marking. These issues include acceptance of 
microdot technology within the law enforcement community; the costs 
associated with magnifying devices used to read microdot markings; 
potential need for additional law enforcement personnel training; and 
the need for objective criteria to regulate microdot markings.
    In sum, the agency is unable to amend part 541 to allow microdot 
technology as an alternative to conventional parts marking because such 
change would be outside the scope of notice. We note that voluntary use 
of microdot technology on vehicles not subject to parts marking 
requirements, or in addition to the required markings, is not 
prohibited by our standards.

G. Parts Marking of Glazing

    Retainagroup petitioned the agency to add glazing to the list of 
major parts in Sec.  541.5 that are required to be marked on vehicles 
subject to parts marking requirements.\24\ Retainagroup argued that 
marking the vehicle glazing would considerably enhance the deterrence 
effect of our regulations. Retainagroup stated that the chief benefit 
of glazing

[[Page 28849]]

marks would be deterrence of vehicle theft, rather than prevention of 
glazing theft.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ See Docket No. NHTSA-2002-12231-40.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As discussed in our April 2004 final rule, the agency does not have 
the statutory authority to require marking of glazing. Under 49 U.S.C. 
33101(6), major parts of motor vehicle subject to parts making 
requirements only include: (A) The engine; (B) the transmission; (C) 
each passenger compartment door; (D) the hood; (E) the grille; (F) each 
bumper; (G) each front fender; (H) the deck lid, tailgate, hatchback; 
(I) each rear quarter panel; (J) trunk floor pan; (K) the frame or 
platform; and (L) any other part comparable in design or function to 
the parts listed in A through K.
    Glazing is not listed in A through K, and the agency believes that 
it is not comparable in design and function to parts listed above. As 
discussed in our April 14, 2004 letter to Retainagroup,\25\ glazing is 
designed and manufactured from a combination of glass and plastic, 
materials that are significantly different from metal and fiberglass 
normally used in manufacturing the ``major parts'' listed in Sec.  
541.5. Glazing also serves a unique function of providing visibility 
necessary for the safe operation of motor vehicles and helps prevent 
ejections in automobile collisions. This function is unique to glazing 
and is different from that of vehicle parts listed in A through K. 
Accordingly, before the agency could require parts marking of glazing, 
Congress would have to amend 49 CFR Chapter 331, the statute governing 
theft prevention.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/interps/files/GF001563a.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Finally, Retainagroup made several general arguments in favor of 
laser-etching the major parts that are subject to marking requirements, 
instead of affixing labels. We note that laser etching is not 
prohibited by our standards so long as the VIN number is lettered in 
block capitals and numerals not less than three thirty-seconds of an 
inch high. We further note that glazing marking is not prohibited by 
our regulations and vehicle manufacturers are free to do so.

H. Miscellaneous Issues

    1. In a letter dated April 13, 2004, VW asked whether expanded 
parts marking requirements applied to passenger cars with a gross 
vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 6,000 pounds. In a letter 
dated May 10, 2004, we explained that the GVWR limitation applied only 
to multipurpose passenger vehicles and light duty trucks, and that the 
new parts marking requirements apply to all passenger cars regardless 
of GVWR.\26\ Subsequently, we published a correction notice, which, 
among other things, clarified the application of parts marking 
requirements.\27\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \26\ http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/interps/files/GF003175.html.
    \27\ See 69 FR 34612 (June 22, 2004).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    2. In an e-mail dated February 7, 2005, Mr. Steven Jonas of VW 
asked about ``carryover'' of part 543 exemptions to subsequent model 
year vehicle lines. Specifically, Mr. Jonas asked if a part 543 parts 
marking exemption of a 2006 model year line would carry over to a 2007 
model year line, if the 2007 model year line is introduced before 
September 1, 2006. Our answer is yes.
    If the agency grants a part 543 exemption for a 2006 model year 
line, that exemption carries over to subsequent model years regardless 
of the model introduction date. We note that, as discussed in Section 
V(B) above, each manufacturer is eligible for one part 543 parts 
marking exemption per model year. Thus, VW would not be able to obtain 
another exemption for a different 2006 model year line.
    3. In an e-mail dated October 27, 2004, James Chen of Hogan & 
Hartson asked if a low theft LDT line that shares majority of 
interchangeable parts with a vehicle line that is exempted from parts 
marking under part 543, would itself be subject to parts marking 
requirements. Our answer is no.
    By way of background, The Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 required NHTSA 
to extend the parts marking requirements to below median theft rate 
passenger cars and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle 
weight rating of 6,000 pounds or less. However, the statute did not 
direct NHTSA to extend the parts marking requirements to low theft 
LDTs. Nevertheless, as explained, in the April 2004 final rule, the 
agency decided to extend parts marking requirements to low theft LDTs 
that share major interchangeable parts with vehicles that would become 
subject to parts marking effective September 1, 2006. Failure to apply 
the parts marking requirements to these low theft LDTs could hinder law 
enforcement actions because it would have been difficult or even 
impossible to draw, with any confidence, inferences from the absence of 
marks on shared major vehicle parts.
    The situation described by Mr. Chen does not raise the same 
concerns. If the vehicle line subject to parts marking is exempted 
under part 543, there is no risk of confusion associated with only some 
but not all of identical vehicle parts being marked. Thus, we believe 
it is unnecessary to require that low theft LDTs that share major 
interchangeable parts with exempted vehicle lines, be marked. In fact, 
we believe that requiring LDTs to be marked when their ``counterparts'' 
are exempted, could also hinder effective law enforcement.
    We are amending the regulatory text accordingly.
    4. In an e-mail dated October 28, 2004, James Chen of Hogan & 
Hartson asked when the manufacturers of LDTs are required to submit 
their likely theft rate determinations based on criteria specified in 
appendix C of part 541.
    New LDT lines: The manufacturers of all LDTs, are required to 
submit their likely theft rate determinations 15 months prior to 
introduction of each new line. This requirement is unaffected by the 
April 2004 final rule, since the manufacturers were previously required 
to submit this information 15 months prior to introduction of new 
vehicle lines.\28\ Accordingly, the manufacturers of new LDT lines 
should continue submitting their likely theft rate determinations as 
they did before the April 2004 final rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \28\ As explained in Section V, likely theft rate determination 
submissions are not required for passenger car and MPV lines because 
they will become subject to parts marking regardless of theft rate. 
Further, likely theft rate determinations are not required if these 
vehicle lines are voluntarily marked prior to the September 1, 2006 
effective date.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Existing LDT lines: Under the April 2004 final rule, the 
manufacturers of existing low theft LDTs lines are required to submit 
their evaluations and conclusions regarding low theft LDTs that share 
major parts with vehicles subject to parts marking requirements.\29\ 
The manufacturers are required to submit this information 15 months 
prior to the date when the vehicles sharing major parts would become 
subject to parts marking requirements. Thus, the agency expects to 
receive these evaluations 15 months prior to September 1, 2006.\30\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \29\ See 49 CFR 542(c)(3).
    \30\ We note that, traditionally, the agency evaluates late 
submissions. Because of timing concerns, we will again evaluate 
Sec.  542(c)(3) submissions made after June 1, 2005, so long as the 
required submission is made without unreasonable delay.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

VI. Rulemaking Analyses and Notices

A. Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

    This rulemaking document was not reviewed under E.O. 12866, 
``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' The agency has considered the 
impact of this rulemaking action under the Department of 
Transportation's

[[Page 28850]]

regulatory policies and procedures, and has determined that it is not 
``significant.''
    In the Final Regulatory Evaluation (FRA), we estimated that 
expanding parts marking requirements would cost $19.6 million 
annually.\31\ Because we are implementing a phase-in, and because we 
decided to exclude low-volume vehicle lines from parts marking 
requirements, this document reduces our estimated yearly costs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \31\ See Docket No. 2002-12231-35.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The agency estimates that expanded parts marking requirements would 
reduce the costs associated with vehicle thefts by $38.8 million each 
year. Because low-volume vehicle lines are seldom stolen, this document 
will not substantially affect our benefits estimates.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) 
requires agencies to evaluate the potential effects of their rules on 
small businesses, small organizations and small governmental 
jurisdictions. I have considered the possible effects of this 
rulemaking action under the Regulatory Flexibility Act and certify that 
it would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number 
of small entities because NHTSA has previously excluded small 
manufacturers (less than 5,000 vehicles annually) from parts marking 
requirements.

C. National Environmental Policy Act

    NHTSA has analyzed this document for the purposes of the National 
Environmental Policy Act. The agency has determined that implementation 
of this action would not have any significant impact on the quality of 
the human environment.

D. Executive Order 13132 (Federalism)

    NHTSA has analyzed this rulemaking in accordance with the 
principles and criteria contained in Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 
43255, August 10, 1999) and have determined that it does not have 
sufficient Federal implications to warrant consultation with State and 
local officials or the preparation of a Federalism summary impact 
statement. The final rule will not have any substantial impact on the 
States, or on the current Federal-State relationship, or on the current 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various local 
officials.

E. Unfunded Mandates Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 requires agencies to 
prepare a written assessment of the costs, benefits and other effects 
of proposed or final rules that include a Federal mandate likely to 
result in the expenditure by State, local or tribal governments, in the 
aggregate, or by the private sector, of more than $100 million annually 
($120.7 million as adjusted annually for inflation with base year of 
1995). The assessment may be included in conjunction with other 
assessments, as it is here.
    This final rule will not result in expenditures by State, local, or 
tribal governments or automobile or automobile parts manufacturers of 
more than $120.7 million annually.

F. Civil Justice Reform

    Pursuant to Executive Order 12988, ``Civil Justice Reform'' (61 FR 
4729, February 7, 1996), the agency has considered whether this 
rulemaking would have any retroactive effect. This final rule does not 
have any retroactive effect. A petition for reconsideration or other 
administrative proceeding will not be a prerequisite to an action 
seeking judicial review of this rule. This final rule would not preempt 
the states from adopting laws or regulations on the same subject, 
except that it would preempt a state regulation that is in actual 
conflict with the Federal regulation or makes compliance with the 
Federal regulation impossible or interferes with the implementation of 
the Federal statute.

G. Paperwork Reduction Act

    Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), a person is not 
required to respond to a collection of information by a Federal agency 
unless the collection displays a valid OMB control number. The report 
required to verify compliance with the phase-in adopted in this final 
rule is considered a new ``collection of information'' as that term is 
defined by OMB in 5 CFR part 1320.
    Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, before an agency submits 
a proposed collection of information to OMB for approval, it must first 
publish a document in the Federal Register providing a 60-day comment 
period and otherwise consult with members of the public and affected 
agencies concerning each proposed collection of information. The OMB 
has promulgated regulations describing what must be included in such a 
document. Under OMB's regulation (at 5 CFR 1320.8(d), an agency must 
ask for public comment on the following:
    (i) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for 
the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including 
whether the information will have practical utility;
    (ii) The accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the 
proposed collection of information, including the validity of the 
methodology and assumptions used;
    (iii) How to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the 
information to be collected;
    (iv) How to minimize the burden of the collection of information on 
those who are to respond, including the use of appropriate automated, 
electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or 
other forms of information technology, e.g. permitting electronic 
submission of responses.
    In compliance with these requirements, NHTSA asks for public 
comments on the following proposed collection of information for which 
the agency is seeking approval from OMB. Comments must be received on 
or before July 18, 2005.
    Title: 49 CFR 545--Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard 
Phase-In Reporting Requirements.
    OMB Control Number: None.
    Form Number: None.
    Affected Public: Vehicle manufacturers.
    Requested Expiration Date of Approval: Three years from approval 
date.
    Abstract: In response to petitions for reconsideration of an April 
6, 2004 final rule (69 FR 17960), NHTSA is amending the final rule to 
phase-in the effective date of new parts marking requirements over a 
two-year period. To ensure compliance with this phase-in, NHTSA will be 
requesting approval from OMB to require the submission of a single 
report within 60 days of August 31, 2007 indicating what vehicle lines 
were marked effective September 1, 2006.
    NHTSA estimates that not more than 21 vehicle manufacturers will be 
affected by these reporting requirements. None of the affected 
manufacturers are small businesses because manufacturers producing 
fewer than 5,000 vehicles per year are excluded from parts marking 
requirements. NHTSA estimates that the vehicle manufacturers will incur 
a total annual reporting and cost burden of 42 hours (2 hours x 21 
manufacturers) and $630 to $840.
    For Further Information Contact: Mary Versailles, Office of 
International Policy, Fuel Economy and Consumer Programs, (Telephone: 
202-366-2057) (Fax: 202-493-2290). 400 7th Street, SW., Room 5320, 
Washington, DC 20590.

[[Page 28851]]

H. Privacy Act

    Anyone is able to search the electronic form of all comments 
received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual 
submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf 
of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT's 
complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on 
April 11, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 70; Pages 19477-78) or you may visit 
http://dms.dot.gov.

I. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act

    Under the National Technology and Transfer and Advancement Act of 
1995 (NTTAA) (Pub. L. 104-113, 15 U.S.C. 272), ``all Federal agencies 
and departments shall use technical standards that are developed or 
adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies, using such technical 
standards as a means to carry out policy objectives or activities 
determined by the agencies and departments.''
    We are unaware of any applicable technical standards related to 
parts marking.

K. Regulation Identifier Number (RIN)

    The Department of Transportation assigns a regulation identifier 
number (RIN) to each regulatory action listed in the Unified Agenda of 
Federal Regulations. The Regulatory Information Service Center 
publishes the Unified Agenda in April and October of each year. You may 
use the RIN contained in the heading at the beginning of this document 
to find this action in the Unified Agenda.

L. Executive Order 13045 (Protection of Children)

    Executive Order 13045, ``Protection of Children from Environmental 
Health and Safety Risks'' (62 FR 19855, April 23, 1997), applies to any 
rule that: (1) Is determined to be ``economically significant'' as 
defined under Executive Order 12866, and (2) concerns an environmental, 
health, or safety risk that the agency has reason to believe may have a 
disproportionate effect on children. This rule is not subject to E.O. 
13045 because it is not ``economically significant'' as defined under 
E.O. 12866, and does not concern an environmental, health or safety 
risk that NHTSA has reason to believe may have a disproportionate 
effect on children.

List of Subjects in 49 CFR Parts 541, 543, and 545

    Administrative practice and procedure, Crime, Labeling, Motor 
vehicles, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    The amendments to Sections 541.3, 543.3, and 543.5, which were 
published at 69 FR 17960, April 6, 2004, as amended by 69 FR 31412, 
June 22, 2004, are hereby withdrawn.

0
In consideration of the foregoing, NHTSA amends 49 CFR chapter V as 
follows:

VII. Regulatory Text

PART 541--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT PREVENTION STANDARD

0
1. The authority citation for part 541 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 33101, 33102, 33103, 33104, 33105; 
delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.


0
2. Section 541.3 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  541.3  Application.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) and (c) of this section, 
this standard applies to the following:
    (1) Passenger motor vehicle parts identified in Sec.  541.5(a) that 
are present in:
    (i) Passenger cars; and
    (ii) Multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight 
rating of 6,000 pounds or less; and
    (iii) Light-duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,000 
pounds or less, that NHTSA has determined to be high theft in 
accordance with 49 CFR 542.1; and
    (iv) Light duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,000 
pounds or less, that NHTSA has determined to be subject to the 
requirements of this section in accordance with 49 CFR 542.2.
    (2) Replacement passenger motor vehicle parts identified in Sec.  
541.5(a) for vehicles listed in paragraphs (1)(i) to (iv) of this 
section.
    (b) Exclusions. This standard does not apply to the following:
    (1) Passenger motor vehicle parts identified in Sec.  541.5(a) that 
are present in vehicles manufactured by a motor vehicle manufacturer 
that manufactures fewer than 5,000 vehicles for sale in the United 
States each year.
    (2) Passenger motor vehicle parts identified in Sec.  541.5(a) that 
are present in a line with an annual production of not more than 3,500 
vehicles.
    (3) Passenger motor vehicle parts identified in Sec.  541.5(a) that 
are present in light-duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating of 
6,000 pounds or less, that NHTSA has determined to be subject to the 
requirements of this section in accordance with 49 CFR 542.2, if the 
vehicle line with which these light-duty trucks share majority of major 
interchangeable parts is exempt from parts marking requirements 
pursuant to part 543.
    (c) For vehicles listed in subparagraphs (1)(i) to (iv) of this 
section that are (1) not subject to the requirements of this standard 
until September 1, 2006, and (2) manufactured between September 1, 2006 
and August 31, 2007; a manufacturer needs to meet the requirements of 
this part only for lines representing at least 50% of a manufacturer's 
total production of these vehicles.

PART 543--[AMENDED]

0
3. The authority citation for part 543 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 33101, 33102, 33103, 33104, 33105; 
delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.


0
4. Section 543.3 is amended to read as follows:


Sec.  543.3  Application.

    This part applies to manufacturers of vehicles subject to the 
requirements of part 541 of this chapter, and to any interested person 
who seeks to have NHTSA terminate an exemption.

0
5. Section 543.5(a) is amended to read as follows:


Sec.  543.5  Petition: General requirements.

    (a) For each model year, a manufacturer may petition NHTSA for an 
exemption of one car line from the requirements of part 541 of this 
chapter. However, for car lines not subject to the requirements of part 
541 of this chapter until September 1, 2006, a manufacturer may not 
petition NHTSA for an exemption for model years before model year 2006.
* * * * *

0
6. Part 545 is added to read as follows:

PART 545--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT PREVENTION STANDARD PHASE-IN 
AND SMALL-VOLUME LINE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 33101, 33102, 33103, 33104, 33105; 
delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.

Sec.
545.1 Scope
545.2 Purpose
545.3 Applicability
545.4 Response to inquiries
545.5 Definitions
545.6 Reporting requirements for vehicles listed in Sec.  541(a)(1)

[[Page 28852]]

545.7 Reporting requirements for vehicles listed in Sec.  541(b)(2)
545.8 Records
545.9 Petition to extend period to file report


Sec.  545.1  Scope.

    This part establishes requirements for manufacturers of motor 
vehicles to respond to NHTSA inquiries, to submit reports, and to 
maintain records related to the reports, concerning the number of 
vehicles that meet the requirements of 49 CFR part 541, and the number 
of vehicles that are excluded from the requirements of 49 CFR part 541 
pursuant to 49 CFR 541(b)(2).


Sec.  545.2  Purpose.

    The purpose of these requirements is to assist the National Highway 
Traffic Safety Administration in determining whether a manufacturer has 
complied with the requirements of 49 CFR 541.5.


Sec.  545.3  Applicability.

    This subpart applies to manufacturers of motor vehicles.


Sec.  545.4  Response to inquiries.

    At any time prior to August 31, 2007, each manufacturer must, upon 
request from the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance, provide 
information identifying the vehicles (by make, model, and vehicle 
identification number) that have been certified as complying with the 
requirements of 49 CFR part 541. The manufacturers designation of a 
vehicle as a certified vehicle is irrevocable.
    At any time prior to August 31, 2007, each manufacturer must, upon 
request from the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance, provide 
information identifying the vehicles (by make, model, and vehicle 
identification number) that are excluded from the requirements of 49 
CFR part 541 pursuant to 49 CFR 541(b)(2).


Sec.  545.5  Definitions.

    Production year means the 12-month period between September 1 of 
2006 and August 31, 2007, inclusive.
    Small-volume line means a line with an annual production of not 
more than 3,500 vehicles.


Sec.  545.6  Reporting requirements for vehicles listed in Sec.  
541(a)(1).

    (a) General reporting requirements. Within 60 days after the end of 
the production year ending August 31, 2007, each manufacturer shall 
submit a report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 
concerning its compliance with 49 CFR part 541 for vehicles listed in 
Sec.  541(a)(1) that were manufactured between September 1, 2006 and 
August 31, 2007. Each report must--
    (1) Identify the manufacturer;
    (2) State the full name, title, and address of the official 
responsible for preparing the report;
    (3) Identify the production year being reported on;
    (4) Contain a statement regarding whether or not the manufacturer 
complied with the requirements of 49 CFR part 541 for the period 
covered by the report, and the basis for that statement;
    (5) Provide the information specified in paragraph (b) of this 
section;
    (6) Be written in the English language; and
    (7) Be submitted to: Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety 
Administration, Room, 400 7th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.
    (b) Report content--(1) Basis for Statement of Compliance. Each 
manufacturer shall provide the number of motor vehicles listed in Sec.  
541(a)(1) that were manufactured between September 1, 2006 and August 
31, 2007 (excluding those motor vehicles that were subject to the 
requirements of 49 CFR part 541 before September 1, 2006).
    (2) Production. Each manufacturer shall provide (1) the number of 
motor vehicles manufactured between September 1, 2006 and August 31, 
2007 (excluding those motor vehicles that were subject to the 
requirements of 49 CFR part 541 before September 1, 2006), that meet 
the requirements of 49 CFR 541.5; and (2) the number of motor vehicles 
manufactured between September 1, 2006 and August 31, 2007 (excluding 
those motor vehicles that were subject to the requirements of 49 CFR 
part 541 before September 1, 2006), that are exempt from 49 CFR part 
541 pursuant to 49 CFR part 543.
    (3) Statement regarding compliance. Each manufacturer must provide 
a statement regarding whether or not the manufacturer complied with 49 
CFR 541.5 requirements as applicable to the period covered by the 
report, and the basis for that statement.


Sec.  545.7  Reporting requirements for vehicles listed in Sec.  
541(b)(2).

    (a) General reporting requirements. Within 60 days after the end of 
the production year ending August 31, 2007, each manufacturer must 
submit a report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 
concerning small-volume lines that were manufactured between September 
1, 2006 and August 31, 2007. Each report must--
    (1) Identify the manufacturer;
    (2) State the full name, title, and address of the official 
responsible for preparing the report;
    (3) Identify the production year being reported on;
    (4) Provide the information specified in paragraph (b) of this 
section;
    (5) Be written in the English language; and
    (6) Be submitted to: Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety 
Administration, Room, 400 7th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.
    (b) Report content. Within 60 days after the end of the production 
year ending August 31, 2007, each manufacturer shall provide: (1) The 
name of each small-volume line the manufacturer produces; (2) the 
number of motor vehicles in each small-volume line the manufacturer 
produced.


Sec.  545.8  Records.

    Each manufacturer shall maintain records of the Vehicle 
Identification Number for each vehicle for which information is 
reported under Sec.  545.6(b)(2) and Sec.  545.7(b)(2) until December 
31, 2008.


Sec.  545.9  Petition to extend period to file report.

    A manufacturer may petition for extension of time to submit a 
report under this part. A petition will be granted only if the 
petitioner shows good cause for the extension and if the extension is 
consistent with the public interest. The petition must be received not 
later than 15 days before expiration of the time stated in Sec.  
545.5(a). The filing of a petition does not automatically extend the 
time for filing a report. The petition must be submitted to: 
Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 400 7th 
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590.

    Issued on May 9, 2005.
Jeffrey W. Runge,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 05-9708 Filed 5-18-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-59-P