Autosock acceptance

[Definition56]

Can any-one clarify what the status is with the Autosock alternative to chains being approved in Oz? Is there any concerted lobbying effort being driven by any-one? Surely the Resorts should be in on the efforts to gain approval?

[snowtyres]

Snow socks, including RUD Soft Spike and Autosock, are a “traction aid” and NOT a snow chain.

Snow socks can be used on “other than 2WD vehicles” in NSW (ie AWD, 4WD or SUV ) because there is no NSW regulation requiring snow chains, of any type – including snow socks, to be carried or fitted.
This section of RTA Vehicle Standards Information | No. 57 | 9 June 2009 is a recommendation only, hardly an “approval”.
Snow socks are not permitted to be used on 2WD vehicles in NSW.

Refer

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/registration/d...9_june_2009.pdf

In other markets you will find that snow socks are be used on vehicles where snow chains are NOT required to be carried by regulation. To further explain............ "RUD Chains offers a range of snow chains for different vehicle types and applications,
RUD Soft Spike that complies with the Austrian Standard ONORM V5121.1 Wheel slide protection control devices for vehicles classes M1, N1, O1, O2 – Requirements, testing, marking of conformity.
Their information includes the following qualifications......"

“Bei Schneekettenpflicht dürfen nur Schneeketten verwendet werden,
die den Normen V 5117 bzw. V 5119 entsprechen.”

“When there is a legal obligation to fit snow chains,
they must comply with standard V5117 or V5119.”


To Quote.....................”RUD regards the Soft Spike as supplementing its range, and as the ideal "companion" for normal winter journeys. However, under extreme conditions, such as deep snow or frequent journeys on uncleared Alpine roads, RUD still recommends using conventional snow chains”.................


All this is highlighted in these Rud product links

http://www.rud.com/en/produkte/schneeketten/pkw/softspike.html

http://www.rud.com/en/unternehmen/aktuelles/presse/schneeketten1/hightech_textil_stahl.html