8702.10.31.00 - Designed for the transport of 16 or more persons, including the driver

This HTS category, 8702.10.31.00, specifically classifies motor vehicles designed for the transport of 16 or more persons, including the driver, that are powered solely by a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (commonly known as diesel or semi-diesel engines). These vehicles are essentially larger buses or coaches intended for mass transit or long-distance travel. The critical defining characteristics are the passenger capacity of 16 or more individuals and the specific type of engine.

This subcategory is distinguished from its sibling, 8702.10.61.00, which is designated for "Other" motor vehicles with a capacity of 10 or more persons, including the driver, and powered by a compression-ignition engine. The primary differentiating factor lies in the passenger capacity: 8702.10.31.00 is for vehicles seating 16 or more, while the "Other" category would encompass those with capacities between 10 and 15 persons (inclusive of the driver).

As this is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. The classification of a vehicle under 8702.10.31.00 hinges on meeting both the passenger capacity threshold and the engine type requirement. This ensures that large passenger-carrying diesel buses and coaches are correctly categorized for customs purposes.