What classifies a vehicle as 'specially constructed'?

A vehicle is classified as 'specially constructed' if it is not originally built under a distinctive manufacturer name and has not undergone material alterations since its original construction. This classification is important because it distinguishes vehicles that may not conform to the standard manufacturing processes and regulatory requirements that apply to mass-produced vehicles. Such vehicles often do not have a clear identity as to make and model, which can affect their registration, titling, and inspection processes.

In contrast, vehicles altered by the manufacturer or originally built by a recognized manufacturer fall under different categories, as they are associated with a specific make, model, and production standards. Furthermore, a vehicle modified for personal taste could still retain its original manufacturer identity, thus not classifying it as specially constructed, despite the modifications. Therefore, to be classified as specially constructed, the key factor is the lack of a definitive manufacturer label and the absence of material alterations that would change its original construction.