Ammon News - In line with keeping pace with rapid developments in vehicle manufacturing technology and modernizing Jordan’s public transportation system, the Ministers of Interior and Transport approved a set of amendments aimed at adapting to changes in the public transport market.

The amendments were introduced in partnership between the Land Transport Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Interior, the Jordan Customs Department, the Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization, and the Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Department, to improve the regulatory environment and expand the range of vehicles permitted to operate under different transport categories.

The amendments aim to broaden the categories of vehicles eligible for licensing under service taxis, regular taxis, international public transport (cross-border travel), border taxis (land, air, and sea crossings), luxury small passenger vehicles (limousines), hotel taxis, and premium taxis, in line with modern developments in the automotive sector.

Among the most notable changes is lowering the minimum engine capacity requirement for hybrid vehicles to 1500cc across all categories, except for international public transport vehicles and border taxis. The amendments also allow hybrid vehicles to be licensed for all transport categories and permit electric vehicles in all categories except international public transport.

In addition, hatchback vehicles powered by gasoline, electricity, or hybrid systems will now be allowed across all categories, provided they meet approved technical standards.

The amendments also permit the registration of vehicles with latch-style doors across all categories, provided the latch system is automatic and supported by an automatic safety protection system. Two-seater vehicles are exempt from the automatic latch requirement. The regulations further adopt disc brakes for both front and rear wheels.

These amendments come as part of efforts to enhance regulatory flexibility, encourage the use of modern and environmentally friendly vehicles, and improve safety and quality standards in public transportation services.