Is Squatted Trucks Legal in Norway After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No. Squatted trucks—vehicles with lowered suspension—violate Norway’s Forskrift om kjøretøyers konstruksjon og utrustning (Vehicle Construction and Equipment Regulation). The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen) enforces strict height and suspension standards, and modified trucks face immediate registration revocation under §14-3.


Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Norway

  • Minimum Ground Clearance: Vehicles must maintain ≥150mm clearance under the lowest structural point (excluding axles) per Forskrift 2023-11-15 §14-2. Exceptions require engineering certification from a recognized Norwegian test body (e.g., DNV).
  • Suspension Modifications: Any alteration to factory suspension height voids type approval. Aftermarket kits must comply with ECE R100 and be homologated by the Norwegian Vehicle Authority (NVA).
  • Enforcement Priorities: Statens vegvesen prioritizes checks in urban areas (Oslo, Bergen) and during annual inspections. Non-compliant vehicles are flagged for mandatory rectification within 30 days or face deregistration.

Post-2026, the NVA will integrate AI-driven roadside scanning to detect squatted trucks, aligning with EU’s Roadworthiness Package amendments. Owners risk fines up to NOK 10,000 (≈€900) and impoundment for repeat offenses.