OPEI announces first-ever standard for Multipurpose Off-Highway Utility Vehicles

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) announced May 10 that it has issued the first-ever ANSI standard for Multipurpose Off-Highway Utility Vehicles (MOHUV), encompassing off-highway vehicles that operate between 25 to 50 miles per hour and are utilized for multi-purpose applications.

OPEI’s MOHUV committee developed the standard after a rigorous American National Standards Institute (ANSI) process, which included additional input and cross-functional reviews by a consensus group comprising vehicle users, industry representatives and government/independent agencies.

“Up until now, there was no standard for MOHUVs,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI. “Developing this standard was really a priority for OPEI as this type of vehicle enjoys growing popularity. Now, MOHUV manufacturers have clear guidance and minimum requirements on voluntary, consensus-driven standards as approved by ANSI.”

Before the newly announced MOHUV standard, only work-focused utility vehicles (limited to 25 mph or lower) and recreation-focused off-highway vehicles (operating above 30 mph) had published standards. The new OPEI standard fills the gap by defining standards for utility vehicles that are capable of a broad spectrum of uses.

To purchase the new MOHUV standards document, ANSI/OPEI B71.9-2012, go to the ANSI eStandards Store at www.webstore.ansi.org.