8703.70.00.10 - Of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,500 cc

This HTS classification pertains to motor vehicles designed primarily for the transport of persons, excluding those specifically classified under heading 8702. The defining characteristic of vehicles within this category is their propulsion system, which exclusively utilizes electric motors, with the capability to be recharged from an external power source. This category specifically enumerates vehicles where the electric motor is the sole means of propulsion, and the vehicle is designed to be plugged in for charging.

This classification is distinct from its sibling categories, which are differentiated based on the cylinder capacity of a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine. While this particular node focuses solely on electric-powered vehicles that can be externally charged, sibling categories would encompass vehicles with hybrid powertrains that also incorporate a diesel or semi-diesel engine, further subdivided by the engine's cubic centimeter capacity. Therefore, the key differentiator here is the absence of an internal combustion engine as a primary or secondary means of propulsion, and the presence of external charging capability.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Classification within this specific code is determined by the sole presence of an externally chargeable electric motor as the propulsion system and the primary design for transporting persons. Examples include fully electric passenger cars, electric SUVs, and electric hatchbacks that meet these criteria, regardless of any ancillary or charging infrastructure.