8704.42.00 - G.V.W. exceeding 5 metric tons but not exceeding 20 metric tons

This HTS category, 8704.42.00, specifically classifies motor vehicles designed for the transport of goods that are powered by both a compression-ignition internal combustion engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and an electric motor. A key defining characteristic of vehicles within this subheading is their Gross Vehicle Weight (G.V.W.), which must exceed 5 metric tons but not exceed 20 metric tons. This distinction is crucial for differentiating these vehicles from lighter or heavier counterparts.

Vehicles classified under 8704.42.00 are distinguished from their siblings by their G.V.W. range. Category 8704.41.00.00 covers similar hybrid powertrain vehicles with a G.V.W. not exceeding 5 metric tons, while 8704.43.00.00 encompasses those with a G.V.W. exceeding 20 metric tons. Therefore, the 5 to 20 metric ton G.V.W. range is the sole determinant for classification within 8704.42.00.

To further refine classification within this tonnage bracket, subcategories exist based on more precise G.V.W. ranges. These include 8704.42.00.20 (exceeding 5 but not exceeding 9 metric tons), 8704.42.00.40 (exceeding 9 but not exceeding 12 metric tons), 8704.42.00.60 (exceeding 12 but not exceeding 15 metric tons), and 8704.42.00.80 (exceeding 15 but not exceeding 20 metric tons). These subdivisions allow for granular tracking and statistical analysis of hybrid diesel-electric trucks and vans within specific weight classes, reflecting the varied operational capacities and potential applications of these vehicles.