ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) issued the first-ever ANSI standard for Multipurpose Off-Highway Utility Vehicles (MOHUVs) 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.  Developing this standard was really a priority for OPEI as this type of vehicle enjoys growing popularity,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI.  “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.

The new MOHUV standards document, ANSI/OPEI B71.9-2012, can be purchased at the ANSI eStandards Store.