Are you allowed to drive a classic car behind an electric vehicle in the Netherlands?
Car manufacturer Volkswagen recently showcased a striking combination: a classic Volkswagen Golf 1 being towed behind a modern, electric ID. Cross. This setup attracted a lot of attention from car enthusiasts, but it also raises an important practical question for Dutch motorists: is it actually permitted to use such a combination on public roads?
In the Netherlands, there are strict rules for towing vehicles. When you attach one car behind another, this is considered towing. The law states that towing is only permitted in emergency situations, for example, if a car has broken down and needs to be taken to a garage. Therefore, it is not intended to use a car as a trailer for recreational purposes or for show.
In addition, the combination must meet specific safety requirements. For instance, the towed car must be in good technical condition, and the driver in the towed vehicle must be able to steer and brake. The connection between the two vehicles must also be safe and secure. Because a Golf 1 is not a trailer, it lacks the proper lighting and braking systems that are normally required for safe transport on the road.
Although Volkswagen's combination provides a fun image for an event, it is not permitted in practice to participate in traffic in this manner. Anyone wishing to transport their classic car must use an official car transporter or a suitable trailer that meets all legal requirements in the Netherlands.
In short, Volkswagen's action is primarily intended as a playful presentation. For the average Dutch motorist, it remains important to be well-acquainted with the rules for towing and transport to avoid fines and dangerous situations on the road.