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Classification of a Tactical Response Robot under CN Code 8424 89 70
The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2621 of 1 October 2024 stipulates the classification of a specific machine within the Combined Nomenclature (CN). The goods described are to be classified under CN code 8424 89 70.
Description of the Goods
The machine in question is a tactical response robot consisting of the following components:
- Chassis: A track-mounted chassis with approximate dimensions of 1,500 × 1,200 × 1,300 mm. It is equipped with two electrical 7.5 kW drive motors for propulsion, providing a tractive force of up to 4 tonnes. The electrical power is supplied by a lithium-ion battery.
- Camera System: Four static directional cameras capable of transmitting a live image feed to the user.
- Lighting: Six LED spotlights aligned in the direction of movement, along with LED ambient lighting.
- Firefighting Dispersing Device: A device designed for dispersing water or foam for firefighting purposes, with a capacity of up to 2,000 litres per minute at 10 bars. It is fully compatible for connection with the hose of a firefighting truck.
- Cable Winch: A cable winch equipped with an extendable claw support for stability when handling large loads.
The machine is controlled via remote control with a range of up to 150 meters and/or from a system carrier vehicle via intranet with a range of up to 2,500 meters (WLAN-based).
Optional Equipment
The product may be presented in different configurations depending on the extra equipment mounted on the chassis upon request. Optional equipment includes:
- Movable cameras for normal and thermal image transmission.
- Additional LED spotlights.
- A Raman spectrometer for the detection of hazardous substances.
- A remotely controlled manipulator arm to perform precise tasks (e.g., sampling).
- A trailer coupler.
Intended Use
The machine is designed for use in firefighting and recovery operations. It allows firefighting personnel to remain outside the danger zone—such as areas with hazardous material exploration, collapse danger, or intense heat development—while still being involved in and remotely controlling operations at a safe distance.
Legal Basis for Classification
The classification under CN code 8424 89 70 is determined by:
- General rules 1 and 6 for the interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature.
- Note 3 to Section XVI of the Combined Nomenclature.
- The wording of CN codes 8424, 8424 89, and 8424 89 70.
Reasons for Classification
The principal function of the machine is identified as the dispersing of water or foam for firefighting purposes. This is determined based on the objective characteristics of the dispersing device, notably its volume, pressure, and projecting distance.
Classification under other headings is excluded because:
- Heading 8701: The machine is not constructed essentially for hauling or pushing another vehicle, appliance, or load. Therefore, it does not fall under vehicles designed for traction.
- Heading 8705: The machine does not possess the characteristics of vehicles in this heading, such as a complete motor vehicle chassis or lorry. It lacks essential mechanical features like a propelling engine, gearbox, gear-changing controls, and steering and braking facilities.
As a composite machine within the meaning of Note 3 to Section XVI, the machine is classified according to its principal function. Auxiliary functions, such as imaging and load handling, are considered complementary and subsidiary.
Transitional Provisions
Binding tariff information that does not conform to this regulation may continue to be invoked in accordance with Article 34(9) of Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 for a period of three months from the date of entry into force of this regulation.
Entry into Force
This regulation enters into force on the twentieth day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. It is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
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