This document specifies the mechanical, electrical/electronic and pneumatic characteristics of a fully automated fifth wheel coupling system to ensure interchangeability between a towing vehicle and a coupled semi-trailer(s) with 24 V nominal supply voltage. The two vehicles together constitute an articulated vehicle or are part of a vehicle combination.
This document also supports the step-by-step introduction of fully automated fifth wheel coupling systems in the market. It specifies features necessary for mixed mode operation, i.e. the combination of a fully automated coupling system (FACS) equipped towing vehicle with a conventional semi-trailer, and vice versa, the combination of a conventional towing vehicle with a FACS-equipped semi-trailer.