82_FR_48942 82 FR 48741 - Petition for Exemption From the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard; Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC

82 FR 48741 - Petition for Exemption From the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard; Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 201 (October 19, 2017)

Page Range48741-48743
FR Document2017-22659

This document grants in full the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC's, (FCA) petition for exemption of the Jeep Wrangler vehicle line in accordance with 49 CFR part 543, Exemption from Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard. This petition is granted because the agency has determined that the antitheft device to be placed on the line as standard equipment is likely to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor vehicle theft as compliance with the parts-marking requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard. (Theft Prevention Standard).

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 201 (Thursday, October 19, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 201 (Thursday, October 19, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 48741-48743]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-22659]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration


Petition for Exemption From the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft 
Prevention Standard; Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC

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

ACTION: Grant of petition for exemption.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This document grants in full the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US 
LLC's, (FCA) petition for exemption of the Jeep Wrangler vehicle line 
in accordance with 49 CFR part 543, Exemption from Vehicle Theft 
Prevention Standard. This petition is granted because the agency has 
determined that the antitheft device to be placed on the line as 
standard equipment is likely to be as effective in reducing and 
deterring motor vehicle theft as compliance with the parts-marking 
requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard. 
(Theft Prevention Standard).

DATES: The exemption granted by this notice is effective beginning with 
2018 model year (MY).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Carlita Ballard, International 
Policy, Fuel Economy and Consumer Programs, NHTSA, West Building, W43-
439, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Ms. Ballard's 
phone number is (202) 366-5222. Her fax number is (202) 493-2990.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In a petition dated June 2, 2017, FCA 
requested an exemption from the parts-marking requirements of the Theft 
Prevention Standard for its Jeep Wrangler vehicle line beginning with 
MY 2018. The petition requested an exemption from parts-marking 
pursuant to 49 CFR part 543, Exemption from Vehicle Theft Prevention 
Standard, based on the installation of an antitheft device as standard 
equipment for the entire vehicle line.
    Under 49 CFR part 543.5(a), a manufacturer may petition NHTSA to 
grant an exemption for one vehicle line per model year. In its 
petition, FCA provided a detailed description and diagram of the 
identity, design, and location of the components of the antitheft 
device for its Jeep Wrangler vehicle line. FCA stated that its MY 2018 
Jeep Wrangler vehicle line will be installed with the Sentry Key 
Immobilizer System (SKIS) antitheft device as standard equipment on the 
entire vehicle line. The SKIS will provide passive vehicle protection 
by

[[Page 48742]]

preventing the engine from operating unless a valid electronically 
encoded key is inside the cabin of the vehicle and a valid key code is 
detected in the ignition system of the vehicle. Key components of the 
antitheft device will include an immobilizer, a Radio Frequency Hub 
Module (RFHM), Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Controller Module 
(BCM), a Transponder Key/Finger Operated Button (FOB) with Integrated 
Key (FOBIK) and an Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) which contains the 
telltale function only. According to FCA, these components work 
collectively to perform the immobilizer function. FCA will not provide 
an audible alert, however, the vehicle will be equipped with a security 
indicator in the instrument panel cluster that will flash if an invalid 
transponder key is detected. Specifically, FCA stated that its Wrangler 
vehicles will be equipped with a security indicator that acts as a 
diagnostic indicator. If the RFHM detects an invalid transponder key or 
if a transponder key related fault occurs, the security indicator will 
flash. If the RFHM detects a system malfunction or the SKIS becomes 
ineffective, the security indicator will stay on. The SKIS also 
performs a self-test each time the ignition system is turned to the RUN 
position and will store fault information in its RFHM memory if a 
system malfunction is detected.
    FCA's submission is considered a complete petition as required by 
49 CFR 543.7 in that it meets the general requirements contained in 
543.5 and the specific content requirements of 543.6.
    In addressing the specific content requirements of 49 CFR part 
543.6, FCA provided information on the reliability and durability of 
the device. FCA conducted tests based on its own specified standards 
(i.e., voltage range and temperature range) and stated its belief that 
the device meets the stringent performance standards prescribed. 
Specifically, FCA stated that its device must demonstrate a minimum of 
95 percent reliability with 90 percent confidence and 100 percent 
system functionality prior to being shipped from the supplier to the 
vehicle assembly plant for installation in the vehicles. FCA also 
stated that each transponder key has a unique identification code that 
is permanently programmed into it by the manufacturer and must be 
programmed into the RFHM. Once a transponder key has been programmed to 
a particular vehicle, it cannot be used on any other vehicle.
    FCA stated that the SKIS immobilizer feature is activated when the 
transponder key is removed from the ignition system (whether the doors 
are open or not) and the ignition system is in the ``OFF'' position. 
Specifically, once the SKIS is activated, only a valid transponder key 
that is recognized by the ignition system will disable it and allow the 
vehicle to start and continue to run. FCA stated that the functions and 
features of the SKIS are all integral to the BCM in this vehicle. The 
RFHM contains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a microprocessor 
and it initiates the ignition process by communicating with the BCM. 
The RFHM and the ECM both use software that includes a rolling code 
algorithm strategy which helps to reduce the possibility of 
unauthorized SKIS disarming. The microprocessor-based SKIS hardware and 
software also uses electronic messages to communicate with other 
electronic modules in the vehicle over the Controller Area Network 
(CAN) data bus.
    FCA further stated that the SKIS uses RF communication with an 
Advanced Encryption System (AES) to obtain confirmation that the 
transponder key is a valid FOBIK for operating the vehicle. The RFHM 
initiates the ignition process by communicating with the BCM. The RFHM 
contains an RF transceiver and a microprocessor. The RFHM is paired 
with a Keyless Go START/STOP push button (also known as the Keyless 
Ignition Node (``KIN'')). The RFHM receives Low Frequency (LF) and/or 
RF signals from the Sentry Key transponder through a tuned RF antenna. 
When the Keyless Go START/STOP button is pressed on the KIN, the RFHM 
transmits an LF signal to the transponder key. The RFHM then waits for 
a RF signal response from the transponder in the FOBIK. If the response 
received identifies the FOBIK as valid, the communication between the 
RFHM, the BCM, and the ECM proceeds, and the ECM allows the engine to 
start. If the ECM receives an invalid key message or receives no 
message from the RFHM over the CAN data bus, the engine will be 
disabled. FCA further stated that its antitheft immobilizer device 
prevents the engine from running for more than two seconds unless a 
valid transponder key is recognized by the ignition system. 
Additionally, FCA stated that only six consecutive invalid start 
attempts will be permitted and that all other attempts will be locked 
out by preventing the fuel injectors from firing and disabling the 
starter.
    FCA stated that it expects the Jeep Wrangler vehicle line to mirror 
the lower theft rate results achieved by the Jeep Grand Cherokee 
vehicle line when ignition immobilizer systems were installed as 
standard equipment on the line. FCA stated that it has offered the SKIS 
immobilizer device as standard equipment on all Jeep Grand Cherokee 
vehicles since MY 1999. According to FCA, the average theft rate for 
Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles, based on NHTSA's theft rate data for the 
four model years prior to 1999 (1995-1998), when a vehicle immobilizer 
device was not installed as standard equipment was 5.3574 per one 
thousand vehicles produced. This was significantly higher than the 
1990/1991 median theft rate of 3.5826. However, FCA also indicated that 
the average theft rate for the Jeep Grand Cherokee for the nine model 
years (1999-2009, excluding MY 2007 and 2009) after installation of the 
standard immobilizer device was 2.5704, significantly lower than the 
median. The Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicle line was also granted an 
exemption from the parts-marking requirements beginning with MY 2004 
(67 FR 79687, December 30, 2002). FCA further exerts that NHTSA's theft 
rate data for the Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the inclusion of a 
standard immobilizer device resulted in a 52 percent net average 
reduction in vehicle thefts. Theft rate data reported in the Federal 
Register notices published by the agency show that the theft rate for 
the Jeep Wrangler vehicle line, using an average of three MYs' data 
(2012-2014) is also 0.3980, which is significantly lower than the 
median theft rate established by the agency.
    Based on the evidence submitted by FCA, the agency believes that 
the antitheft device for the Jeep Wrangler vehicle line is likely to be 
as effective in reducing and deterring motor vehicle theft as 
compliance with the parts-marking requirements of the Theft Prevention 
Standard (49 CFR 41). The agency concludes that the device will provide 
four of the five types of performance listed in 49 CFR part 
543.6(a)(3): Promoting activation; preventing defeat or circumvention 
of the device by unauthorized persons; preventing operation of the 
vehicle by unauthorized entrants; and ensuring the reliability and 
durability of the device.
    Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 33106 and 49 CFR part 543.7(b), the agency 
grants a petition for exemption from the parts-marking requirements of 
part 541, either in whole or in part, if it determines that, based upon 
substantial evidence, the standard equipment antitheft device is likely 
to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor vehicle theft as 
compliance with the parts-marking requirements of Part 541. The agency 
finds that FCA has provided adequate reasons for its belief that the 
antitheft

[[Page 48743]]

device for the vehicle line is likely to be as effective in reducing 
and deterring motor vehicle theft as compliance with the parts-marking 
requirements of the Theft Prevention Standard (49 CFR part 541). This 
conclusion is based on the information FCA provided about its device.
    For the foregoing reasons, the agency hereby grants in full FCA's 
petition for exemption for its Jeep Wrangler vehicle line from the 
parts-marking requirements of 49 CFR part 541, beginning with its MY 
2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The agency notes that 49 CFR part 541, 
Appendix A-1, identifies those lines that are exempted from the Theft 
Prevention Standard for a given model year. 49 CFR part 543.7(f) 
contains publication requirements incident to the disposition of all 
part 543 petitions. Advanced listing, including the release of future 
product nameplates, the beginning model year for which the petition is 
granted and a general description of the antitheft device is necessary 
in order to notify law enforcement agencies of new vehicle lines 
exempted from the parts marking requirements of the Theft Prevention 
Standard. FCA stated that an official nameplate for the vehicle has not 
yet been determined.
    If FCA decides not to use the exemption for this vehicle line, it 
must formally notify the agency. If such a decision is made, the 
vehicle line must be fully marked as required by 49 CFR parts 541.5 and 
541.6 (marking of major component parts and replacement parts).
    NHTSA notes that if FCA wishes in the future to modify the device 
on which this exemption is based, the company may have to submit a 
petition to modify the exemption. 49 CFR part 543.7(d) states that a 
part 543 exemption applies only to vehicles that belong to a line 
exempted under this part and equipped with the anti-theft device on 
which the line's exemption is based. Further, 49 CFR part 543.9(c)(2) 
provides for the submission of petitions ``to modify an exemption to 
permit the use of an antitheft device similar to but differing from the 
one specified in that exemption.''
    The agency wishes to minimize the administrative burden that 49 CFR 
part 543.9(c)(2) could place on exempted vehicle manufacturers and 
itself. The agency did not intend in drafting part 543 to require the 
submission of a modification petition for every change to the 
components or design of an antitheft device. The significance of many 
such changes could be de minimis. Therefore, NHTSA suggests that if the 
manufacturer contemplates making any changes, the effects of which 
might be characterized as de minimis, it should consult the agency 
before preparing and submitting a petition to modify.

    Issued in Washington, DC, under authority delegated in 49 CFR 
part 1.95.
Raymond R. Posten,
Associate Administrator for Rulemaking.
[FR Doc. 2017-22659 Filed 10-18-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-59-P



                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 201 / Thursday, October 19, 2017 / Notices                                          48741

                                               it for full exemption from the parts-                   2019 vehicles. The agency notes that 49               DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                               marking requirements.                                   CFR part 541, Appendix A–1, identifies
                                                  GM’s proposed device lacks an                        those lines that are exempted from the                National Highway Traffic Safety
                                               audible or visible alarm. Therefore, this               Theft Prevention Standard for a given                 Administration
                                               device cannot perform one of the                        model year. 49 CFR part 543.7(f)
                                               functions listed in 49 CFR part                                                                               Petition for Exemption From the
                                                                                                       contains publication requirements
                                               543.6(a)(3), that is, to call attention to                                                                    Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention
                                                                                                       incident to the disposition of all Part               Standard; Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
                                               unauthorized attempts to enter or move                  543 petitions. Advanced listing,
                                               the vehicle. Based on comparison of the                                                                       US LLC
                                                                                                       including the release of future product
                                               reduction in the theft rates of Chevrolet                                                                     AGENCY: National Highway Traffic
                                                                                                       nameplates, the beginning model year
                                               Corvettes using a passive antitheft                                                                           Safety Administration (NHTSA),
                                               device along with an audible/visible                    for which the petition is granted and a
                                                                                                       general description of the antitheft                  Department of Transportation (DOT).
                                               alarm system to the reduction in theft
                                                                                                       device is necessary in order to notify                ACTION: Grant of petition for exemption.
                                               rates for the Chevrolet Camaro and the
                                               Pontiac Firebird models equipped with                   law enforcement agencies of new                       SUMMARY:   This document grants in full
                                               a passive antitheft device without an                   vehicle lines exempted from the parts                 the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC’s,
                                               alarm, GM finds that the lack of an                     marking requirements of the Theft                     (FCA) petition for exemption of the Jeep
                                               alarm or attention-attracting device does               Prevention Standard.                                  Wrangler vehicle line in accordance
                                               not compromise the theft deterrent                        If GM decides not to use the                        with 49 CFR part 543, Exemption from
                                               performance of a device such as PASS-                   exemption for this line, it should                    Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard. This
                                               Key III+ device. In these instances, the                formally notify the agency. If such a                 petition is granted because the agency
                                               agency has concluded that the lack of an                decision is made, the line must be fully              has determined that the antitheft device
                                               audible or visible alarm has not                        marked according to the requirements                  to be placed on the line as standard
                                               prevented these antitheft devices from                                                                        equipment is likely to be as effective in
                                                                                                       under 49 CFR parts 541.5 and 541.6
                                               being effective protection against theft.                                                                     reducing and deterring motor vehicle
                                                  Based on the evidence submitted by                   (marking of major component parts and
                                                                                                       replacement parts).                                   theft as compliance with the parts-
                                               GM, the agency believes that the                                                                              marking requirements of the Federal
                                               antitheft device for the Cadillac XT4                     NHTSA notes that if GM wishes in the                Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention
                                               vehicle line is likely to be as effective               future to modify the device on which                  Standard. (Theft Prevention Standard).
                                               in reducing and deterring motor vehicle                 this exemption is based, the company                  DATES: The exemption granted by this
                                               theft as compliance with the parts-                     may have to submit a petition to modify               notice is effective beginning with 2018
                                               marking requirements of the Theft                       the exemption. Part 543.7(d) states that              model year (MY).
                                               Prevention Standard (49 CFR 541).                       a Part 543 exemption applies only to
                                                  Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 33106 and 49                                                                         FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms.
                                                                                                       vehicles that belong to a line exempted               Carlita Ballard, International Policy,
                                               CFR 543.7(b), the agency grants a                       under this part and equipped with the
                                               petition for exemption from the parts-                                                                        Fuel Economy and Consumer Programs,
                                                                                                       antitheft device on which the line’s                  NHTSA, West Building, W43–439, 1200
                                               marking requirements of Part 541, either
                                                                                                       exemption is based. Further, Part                     New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
                                               in whole or in part, if it determines that,
                                               based upon substantial evidence, the                    543.9(c)(2) provides for the submission               DC 20590. Ms. Ballard’s phone number
                                               standard equipment antitheft device is                  of petitions ‘‘to modify an exemption to              is (202) 366–5222. Her fax number is
                                               likely to be as effective in reducing and               permit the use of an antitheft device                 (202) 493–2990.
                                               deterring motor vehicle theft as                        similar to but differing from the one                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In a
                                               compliance with the parts-marking                       specified in that exemption.’’                        petition dated June 2, 2017, FCA
                                               requirements of Part 541. The agency                      The agency wishes to minimize the                   requested an exemption from the parts-
                                               finds that GM has provided adequate                     administrative burden that Part                       marking requirements of the Theft
                                               reasons for its belief that the antitheft               543.9(c)(2) could place on exempted                   Prevention Standard for its Jeep
                                               device for the Cadillac XT4 vehicle line                vehicle manufacturers and itself. The                 Wrangler vehicle line beginning with
                                               is likely to be as effective in reducing                agency did not intend in drafting Part                MY 2018. The petition requested an
                                               and deterring motor vehicle theft as                    543 to require the submission of a                    exemption from parts-marking pursuant
                                               compliance with the parts-marking                       modification petition for every change                to 49 CFR part 543, Exemption from
                                               requirements of the Theft Prevention                                                                          Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard,
                                                                                                       to the components or design of an
                                               Standard (49 CFR part 541). This                                                                              based on the installation of an antitheft
                                                                                                       antitheft device. The significance of
                                               conclusion is based on the information                                                                        device as standard equipment for the
                                                                                                       many such changes could be de
                                               GM provided about its device.                                                                                 entire vehicle line.
                                                  The agency concludes that the device                 minimis. Therefore, NHTSA suggests                       Under 49 CFR part 543.5(a), a
                                               will provide four of the five types of                  that if the manufacturer contemplates                 manufacturer may petition NHTSA to
                                               performance listed in § 543.6(a)(3):                    making any changes, the effects of                    grant an exemption for one vehicle line
                                               Promoting activation; preventing defeat                 which might be characterized as de                    per model year. In its petition, FCA
                                               or circumvention of the device by                       minimis, it should consult the agency                 provided a detailed description and
                                               unauthorized persons; preventing                        before preparing and submitting a                     diagram of the identity, design, and
                                               operation of the vehicle by                             petition to modify.                                   location of the components of the
                                               unauthorized entrants; and ensuring the                                                                       antitheft device for its Jeep Wrangler
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                                                                                                         Issued in Washington, DC, under authority
                                               reliability and durability of the device.               delegated in 49 CFR Part 1.95.                        vehicle line. FCA stated that its MY
                                                  For the foregoing reasons, the agency                Raymond R. Posten,
                                                                                                                                                             2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicle line will be
                                               hereby grants in full GM’s petition for                                                                       installed with the Sentry Key
                                               exemption for the Cadillac XT4 vehicle                  Associate Administrator for Rulemaking.               Immobilizer System (SKIS) antitheft
                                               line from the parts-marking                             [FR Doc. 2017–22660 Filed 10–18–17; 8:45 am]          device as standard equipment on the
                                               requirements of 49 CFR part 541,                        BILLING CODE 4910–59–P                                entire vehicle line. The SKIS will
                                               beginning with its model year (MY)                                                                            provide passive vehicle protection by


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                                               48742                       Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 201 / Thursday, October 19, 2017 / Notices

                                               preventing the engine from operating                    transponder key is removed from the                   installed as standard equipment on the
                                               unless a valid electronically encoded                   ignition system (whether the doors are                line. FCA stated that it has offered the
                                               key is inside the cabin of the vehicle                  open or not) and the ignition system is               SKIS immobilizer device as standard
                                               and a valid key code is detected in the                 in the ‘‘OFF’’ position. Specifically,                equipment on all Jeep Grand Cherokee
                                               ignition system of the vehicle. Key                     once the SKIS is activated, only a valid              vehicles since MY 1999. According to
                                               components of the antitheft device will                 transponder key that is recognized by                 FCA, the average theft rate for Jeep
                                               include an immobilizer, a Radio                         the ignition system will disable it and               Grand Cherokee vehicles, based on
                                               Frequency Hub Module (RFHM), Engine                     allow the vehicle to start and continue               NHTSA’s theft rate data for the four
                                               Control Module (ECM), Body Controller                   to run. FCA stated that the functions                 model years prior to 1999 (1995–1998),
                                               Module (BCM), a Transponder Key/                        and features of the SKIS are all integral             when a vehicle immobilizer device was
                                               Finger Operated Button (FOB) with                       to the BCM in this vehicle. The RFHM                  not installed as standard equipment was
                                               Integrated Key (FOBIK) and an                           contains a Radio Frequency (RF)                       5.3574 per one thousand vehicles
                                               Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) which                    transceiver and a microprocessor and it               produced. This was significantly higher
                                               contains the telltale function only.                    initiates the ignition process by                     than the 1990/1991 median theft rate of
                                               According to FCA, these components                      communicating with the BCM. The                       3.5826. However, FCA also indicated
                                               work collectively to perform the                        RFHM and the ECM both use software                    that the average theft rate for the Jeep
                                               immobilizer function. FCA will not                      that includes a rolling code algorithm                Grand Cherokee for the nine model
                                               provide an audible alert, however, the                  strategy which helps to reduce the                    years (1999–2009, excluding MY 2007
                                               vehicle will be equipped with a security                possibility of unauthorized SKIS                      and 2009) after installation of the
                                               indicator in the instrument panel cluster               disarming. The microprocessor-based                   standard immobilizer device was
                                               that will flash if an invalid transponder               SKIS hardware and software also uses                  2.5704, significantly lower than the
                                               key is detected. Specifically, FCA stated               electronic messages to communicate                    median. The Jeep Grand Cherokee
                                               that its Wrangler vehicles will be                      with other electronic modules in the                  vehicle line was also granted an
                                               equipped with a security indicator that                 vehicle over the Controller Area                      exemption from the parts-marking
                                               acts as a diagnostic indicator. If the                  Network (CAN) data bus.                               requirements beginning with MY 2004
                                               RFHM detects an invalid transponder                        FCA further stated that the SKIS uses              (67 FR 79687, December 30, 2002). FCA
                                               key or if a transponder key related fault               RF communication with an Advanced                     further exerts that NHTSA’s theft rate
                                               occurs, the security indicator will flash.              Encryption System (AES) to obtain                     data for the Jeep Grand Cherokee
                                               If the RFHM detects a system                            confirmation that the transponder key is              indicates that the inclusion of a
                                               malfunction or the SKIS becomes                         a valid FOBIK for operating the vehicle.              standard immobilizer device resulted in
                                               ineffective, the security indicator will                The RFHM initiates the ignition process               a 52 percent net average reduction in
                                               stay on. The SKIS also performs a self-                 by communicating with the BCM. The                    vehicle thefts. Theft rate data reported
                                               test each time the ignition system is                   RFHM contains an RF transceiver and a                 in the Federal Register notices
                                               turned to the RUN position and will                     microprocessor. The RFHM is paired                    published by the agency show that the
                                               store fault information in its RFHM                     with a Keyless Go START/STOP push                     theft rate for the Jeep Wrangler vehicle
                                               memory if a system malfunction is                       button (also known as the Keyless                     line, using an average of three MYs’ data
                                               detected.                                               Ignition Node (‘‘KIN’’)). The RFHM                    (2012–2014) is also 0.3980, which is
                                                  FCA’s submission is considered a                     receives Low Frequency (LF) and/or RF                 significantly lower than the median
                                               complete petition as required by 49 CFR                 signals from the Sentry Key transponder               theft rate established by the agency.
                                               543.7 in that it meets the general                      through a tuned RF antenna. When the                     Based on the evidence submitted by
                                               requirements contained in 543.5 and the                 Keyless Go START/STOP button is                       FCA, the agency believes that the
                                               specific content requirements of 543.6.                 pressed on the KIN, the RFHM transmits                antitheft device for the Jeep Wrangler
                                                  In addressing the specific content                   an LF signal to the transponder key. The              vehicle line is likely to be as effective
                                               requirements of 49 CFR part 543.6, FCA                  RFHM then waits for a RF signal                       in reducing and deterring motor vehicle
                                               provided information on the reliability                 response from the transponder in the                  theft as compliance with the parts-
                                               and durability of the device. FCA                       FOBIK. If the response received                       marking requirements of the Theft
                                               conducted tests based on its own                        identifies the FOBIK as valid, the                    Prevention Standard (49 CFR 41). The
                                               specified standards (i.e., voltage range                communication between the RFHM, the                   agency concludes that the device will
                                               and temperature range) and stated its                   BCM, and the ECM proceeds, and the                    provide four of the five types of
                                               belief that the device meets the stringent              ECM allows the engine to start. If the                performance listed in 49 CFR part
                                               performance standards prescribed.                       ECM receives an invalid key message or                543.6(a)(3): Promoting activation;
                                               Specifically, FCA stated that its device                receives no message from the RFHM                     preventing defeat or circumvention of
                                               must demonstrate a minimum of 95                        over the CAN data bus, the engine will                the device by unauthorized persons;
                                               percent reliability with 90 percent                     be disabled. FCA further stated that its              preventing operation of the vehicle by
                                               confidence and 100 percent system                       antitheft immobilizer device prevents                 unauthorized entrants; and ensuring the
                                               functionality prior to being shipped                    the engine from running for more than                 reliability and durability of the device.
                                               from the supplier to the vehicle                        two seconds unless a valid transponder                   Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 33106 and 49
                                               assembly plant for installation in the                  key is recognized by the ignition system.             CFR part 543.7(b), the agency grants a
                                               vehicles. FCA also stated that each                     Additionally, FCA stated that only six                petition for exemption from the parts-
                                               transponder key has a unique                            consecutive invalid start attempts will               marking requirements of part 541, either
                                               identification code that is permanently                 be permitted and that all other attempts              in whole or in part, if it determines that,
                                               programmed into it by the manufacturer                  will be locked out by preventing the fuel             based upon substantial evidence, the
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                                               and must be programmed into the                         injectors from firing and disabling the               standard equipment antitheft device is
                                               RFHM. Once a transponder key has                        starter.                                              likely to be as effective in reducing and
                                               been programmed to a particular                            FCA stated that it expects the Jeep                deterring motor vehicle theft as
                                               vehicle, it cannot be used on any other                 Wrangler vehicle line to mirror the                   compliance with the parts-marking
                                               vehicle.                                                lower theft rate results achieved by the              requirements of Part 541. The agency
                                                  FCA stated that the SKIS immobilizer                 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicle line when                 finds that FCA has provided adequate
                                               feature is activated when the                           ignition immobilizer systems were                     reasons for its belief that the antitheft


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                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 201 / Thursday, October 19, 2017 / Notices                                           48743

                                               device for the vehicle line is likely to be             making any changes, the effects of                    diagram of the identity, design, and
                                               as effective in reducing and deterring                  which might be characterized as de                    location of the components of the
                                               motor vehicle theft as compliance with                  minimis, it should consult the agency                 antitheft device for the Avalon vehicle
                                               the parts-marking requirements of the                   before preparing and submitting a                     line. Toyota stated that its MY 2019
                                               Theft Prevention Standard (49 CFR part                  petition to modify.                                   Avalon vehicle line will be installed
                                               541). This conclusion is based on the                     Issued in Washington, DC, under authority           with a ‘‘smart entry and start’’ system
                                               information FCA provided about its                      delegated in 49 CFR part 1.95.                        and an engine immobilizer as standard
                                               device.                                                 Raymond R. Posten,                                    equipment. Key components of the
                                                  For the foregoing reasons, the agency                Associate Administrator for Rulemaking.               ‘‘smart entry and start’’ system device
                                               hereby grants in full FCA’s petition for                                                                      on the Avalon vehicle line will include,
                                                                                                       [FR Doc. 2017–22659 Filed 10–18–17; 8:45 am]
                                               exemption for its Jeep Wrangler vehicle                                                                       a certification electronic control unit
                                                                                                       BILLING CODE 4910–59–P
                                               line from the parts-marking                                                                                   (ECU), engine switch, steering lock ECU,
                                               requirements of 49 CFR part 541,                                                                              security indicator, door control receiver,
                                               beginning with its MY 2018 Jeep                                                                               electrical key, an engine immobilizer
                                                                                                       DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                               Wrangler vehicles. The agency notes                                                                           and an electronic control module
                                               that 49 CFR part 541, Appendix A–1,                     National Highway Traffic Safety                       (ECM). Toyota stated that there will also
                                               identifies those lines that are exempted                Administration                                        be position switches installed on the
                                               from the Theft Prevention Standard for                                                                        vehicle to protect the hood and doors
                                               a given model year. 49 CFR part 543.7(f)                Petition for Exemption From the                       from unauthorized tampering/opening.
                                               contains publication requirements                       Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention                Toyota further explained that locking
                                               incident to the disposition of all part                 Standard; Toyota Motor North                          the doors can be accomplished through
                                               543 petitions. Advanced listing,                        America, Inc.                                         use of a key, wireless switch or its smart
                                               including the release of future product                                                                       entry system, and that unauthorized
                                               nameplates, the beginning model year                    AGENCY: National Highway Traffic
                                                                                                                                                             tampering with the hood or door
                                               for which the petition is granted and a                 Safety Administration, Department of
                                                                                                                                                             without using one of these methods will
                                               general description of the antitheft                    Transportation (DOT).
                                                                                                                                                             cause the position switches to trigger its
                                               device is necessary in order to notify                  ACTION: Grant of petition for exemption.              antitheft device to operate. Toyota
                                               law enforcement agencies of new                         SUMMARY:   This document grants in full               stated that it will not incorporate an
                                               vehicle lines exempted from the parts                   the Toyota Motor North America, Inc.’s,               audible and visual alarm system as
                                               marking requirements of the Theft                       (Toyota) petition for an exemption of                 standard equipment on its trim-line
                                               Prevention Standard. FCA stated that an                 the Avalon vehicle line. This petition is             vehicles.
                                               official nameplate for the vehicle has                  granted because the agency has                           Toyota’s submission is considered a
                                               not yet been determined.                                determined that the antitheft device to               complete petition as required by 49 CFR
                                                  If FCA decides not to use the                                                                              543.7 in that it meets the general
                                                                                                       be placed on the line as standard
                                               exemption for this vehicle line, it must                                                                      requirements contained in § 543.5 and
                                                                                                       equipment is likely to be as effective in
                                               formally notify the agency. If such a                                                                         the specific content requirements of
                                                                                                       reducing and deterring motor vehicle
                                               decision is made, the vehicle line must                                                                       § 543.6.
                                                                                                       theft as compliance with the parts-
                                               be fully marked as required by 49 CFR                                                                            In addressing the specific content
                                                                                                       marking requirements of the Federal
                                               parts 541.5 and 541.6 (marking of major                                                                       requirements of § 543.6, Toyota
                                                                                                       Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention
                                               component parts and replacement                                                                               provided information on the reliability
                                                                                                       Standard (Theft Prevention Standard).
                                               parts).                                                                                                       and durability of its proposed device.
                                                  NHTSA notes that if FCA wishes in                    DATES: The exemption granted by this
                                                                                                                                                             To ensure reliability and durability of
                                               the future to modify the device on                      notice is applicable beginning with the               the device, Toyota conducted tests
                                               which this exemption is based, the                      2019 model year (MY).                                 based on its own specified standards.
                                               company may have to submit a petition                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                      Toyota provided a detailed list of the
                                               to modify the exemption. 49 CFR part                    Hisham Mohamed, International Policy,                 tests conducted (i.e., high and low
                                               543.7(d) states that a part 543 exemption               Fuel Economy and Consumer Programs,                   temperature operation, overvoltage,
                                               applies only to vehicles that belong to                 NHTSA, W43–437, 1200 New Jersey                       strength, impact, vibration, electro-
                                               a line exempted under this part and                     Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Mr.                 magnetic interference, etc.). Toyota
                                               equipped with the anti-theft device on                  Mohamed’s phone number is (202) 366–                  stated that it believes that its device is
                                               which the line’s exemption is based.                    0307. His fax number is (202) 493–2990.               reliable and durable because it complied
                                               Further, 49 CFR part 543.9(c)(2)                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In a                       with its own specific design standards
                                               provides for the submission of petitions                petition dated June 19, 2017, Toyota                  and the antitheft device is installed on
                                               ‘‘to modify an exemption to permit the                  requested an exemption from the parts-                other vehicle lines for which the agency
                                               use of an antitheft device similar to but               marking requirements of the Theft                     has granted a parts-marking exemption.
                                               differing from the one specified in that                Prevention Standard for the Avalon                    As an additional measure of reliability
                                               exemption.’’                                            vehicle line beginning with MY 2019.                  and durability, Toyota stated that its
                                                  The agency wishes to minimize the                    The petition requested an exemption                   vehicle key cylinders are covered with
                                               administrative burden that 49 CFR part                  from parts-marking pursuant to 49 CFR                 casting cases to prevent the key cylinder
                                               543.9(c)(2) could place on exempted                     part 543, Exemption from Vehicle Theft                from easily being broken. Toyota further
                                               vehicle manufacturers and itself. The                   Prevention Standard, based on the                     explained that there are approximately
                                               agency did not intend in drafting part                  installation of an antitheft device as                10,000 combinations for inner cut keys
rmajette on DSKBCKNHB2PROD with NOTICES




                                               543 to require the submission of a                      standard equipment for the entire                     which makes it difficult to unlock the
                                               modification petition for every change                  vehicle line.                                         doors without using a valid key because
                                               to the components or design of an                         Under 49 CFR part 543.5(a), a                       the key cylinders would spin out and
                                               antitheft device. The significance of                   manufacturer may petition NHTSA to                    cause the locks to not operate.
                                               many such changes could be de                           grant an exemption for one vehicle line                  Toyota stated that its ‘‘smart entry and
                                               minimis. Therefore, NHTSA suggests                      per model year. In its petition, Toyota               start system’’ device is activated when
                                               that if the manufacturer contemplates                   provided a detailed description and                   the engine switch is pushed from the


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Document Created: 2017-10-19 02:56:38
Document Modified: 2017-10-19 02:56:38
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionNotices
ActionGrant of petition for exemption.
DatesThe exemption granted by this notice is effective beginning with 2018 model year (MY).
ContactMs. Carlita Ballard, International Policy, Fuel Economy and Consumer Programs, NHTSA, West Building, W43- 439, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Ms. Ballard's phone number is (202) 366-5222. Her fax number is (202) 493-2990.
FR Citation82 FR 48741 

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