Some 40+ years ago, we saw some of the first definitive towbars produced as a production item. They generally consisted of a number of steel fabricated parts, usually angle iron which were welded and then bolted together onto the structural parts of the vehicle.

To the face plate was bolted a towball which had a head size of 2". This was later increased to the metric size of 50 mm. In those days, no real enforceable legislation covered the design and fitting of these devices, so anyone who had the capability, was able to make and fit their own towbar. This was a real treat for the enthusiastic fabricator or retired engineer who lovingly produced and carefully painted his masterpiece!

As the years progressed, it became increasingly clear to the motor manufacturers that their vehicles should start to have recognized points provided on the frame or chassis of the vehicle, to support a towbar. One, at least, which was capable of pulling the loads that the manufacturer recommended. One of the main aims of designing these mounting points, was to allow the safety aspects of the vehicle to act normally without the towbar infringing on these natural crump zones.

In 1998, we saw the law of EWVTA (European Whole Vehicle Type Approval) come into operation in September of that year. This actually meant that particular parts on a vehicle had to be type approved by the relevant governing body of each individual country And certificated accordingly. Here in the UK, it was and still is, the responsibility of the VCA (Vehicle Certification Agency) who are a division of the DfT. You will see this recognition if you look at your vehicle if registered after 1998, by a number of 'e' marks imbedded onto the plastic light lenses, depending on the country of testing and also can be found imprinted onto a plate often found in the engine compartments.

The 'e' mark allocated for the UK is e11

For the towbar manufacturers, this meant having their towbars put through a number of stress test sequences, which applied forces and ran for a number of cycles.

At the current time of press, there are plans to increase this testing procedure with a number of sequences which not only run for longer, but are applied at different angles on the towball. This additional testing is known as Carlos TC testing ( Car Loading Standard Trailer Coupling)

With such stringent testing, the manufacturers and towing customer alike, have a towbar assembly which is designed, tested, and approved, giving such a high degree of safety and greater reduction in failure of the towbar.

Equally as important, is the introduction of highly advanced, complex electrical systems which have accelerated in design over the last few years. Where at one time, a length of 6 or 7 core cable and a handful of crimp connectors were used, this is no longer an option.

With the steady decline in fossil fuels and greater need for emissions to be regulated, motor manufacturers have invested millions in designing electronic operating systems which see reductions in cables and wires, systems which can now transfer data rather than 12 volt currents. These are broadly known as CAN bus systems. Installations such as mechanical steering rack and pinions are rapidly being replaced by modular steering assemblies which turn the wheels with a series of motors and sensors. These changes save weight for designers thus given better fuel consumption and so on.

The new development for 2007 is the first introduction of vehicles with an especially designed data system called 'Flexray'. This system presents a major leap forward for motor manufacturers as this CAN system is purely designed for the Automotive industry and is highly advanced!


What does all this change mean for towbar fitting?

We at Right Connections are dedicated to providing the correct 'towing electrical solutions' which have the ability to communicate directly with the vehicle's 'convenience' system. The convenience gateway controls vehicle lighting as well as many other non critical systems. In addition to this, vehicles are now being equipped with different safety features. Many of them need to know when a trailer or caravan is attached so they can activate additional features within the safety system.

For example On the new Audi A6, there are features which need to be activated by changes in the central electronics via the use of diagnostic re-coding equipment.
Features such as:

-   Trailer Stability Program - Changes ESP system of the car to help              prevent 'snaking' action of a trailer.

-   Adaptive Cruise Control - Gives greater braking distance when towing.

-   Level Control - Alters the suspension when a trailer is connected.

The need for a 'specialist' towbar electrical solution!  

Using and working with this technology requires a very high level of expertise and the installation of towing electrical solutions can no longer to be viewed as a Do-it-yourself fix. Many manufacturers and independent dealers are now insisting that towing electrical installations have a vehicle specific application. It is important for you to be aware of this and as a result, it is now becoming essential you have your towbar fitted by 'specialists' who offer these solutions. Not only could it affect your warranty, but it is also becoming a possibility that insurance companies who specialise in caravan / trailer insurance will insist on your vehicle having vehicle specific wiring which have the safety features active for them to insure your caravan or trailer!

 

How can I find a 'specialist' towbar centre?

Right Connections supports a large number of towing centres throughout the UK. A high percentage of these are NTTA members and a number of centres have become 'Quality Secured'. These particular centres are endorsed by bodies such as the Caravan Club and the Caravan and camping club. More information about Quality Secured can be found on the 'NTTA Website' .

If you wish to locate a towing centre who fit vehicle specific wiring kits, please view the 'Distributors' page or feel free to contact us here, either by email or telephone and we will be happy to recommend a centre near you.

It is very important that you request a vehicle specific wiring kit as your preferred choice as it may be their policy to always offer an alternative installation that may not be right for your vehicle.