Camera-Monitor Systems for Agricultural & Special Purpose Vehicles
Through the initiative of ALEE and in direct technical exchange with the German Type Approval Authority (KBA), a practical regulatory pathway has been established for Camera-Monitor Systems (CMS) in vehicles with restricted direct visibility caused by front-mounted implements exceeding a forward projection of 3.5 meters.
The forward projection is defined as the distance from the center of the steering wheel to the foremost point of a front-mounted implement.
In these configurations, direct field of vision in front of the vehicle can be heavily limited, particularly during low-speed manoeuvres such as entering public roads from farm driveways or at intersections.
The KBA now issues partial type approvals under §22 StVZO for CMS within a defined scope of application, based on Recommendation No. 49 (“Verkehrsblatt”, issue 9/2025).
Within the approved scope, certified Camera-Monitor Systems can be installed without additional individual installation inspections and can replace the operational need for external guidance in these manoeuvre situations by restoring indirect vision for the driver.
This represents a significant step toward safer and more efficient operation of agricultural and special-purpose vehicles.
As a Technical Service, ALEE supports manufacturers in the approval process and provides regulatory and technical assessment in alignment with KBA requirements.
