Any flat towing bars for a SAAB 9-3? (EDIT: a.k.a an A-Frame?)

[RogerL]

In our part of the world braking systems need to be type approved with the towing vehicle. Otherwise, a retrofitted electric brake device on the towing vehicle would require an IVA, which is a bit of a hassle for the owner. Things aren’t made any easier by the fact that there is no industry standard for electric braking systems to which all car manufacturers can work (to my knowledge at least not for trailers under 3500kg). Without standardised ex-works provisions it would be impossible to swap tow cars or trailers.
Maybe things are a bit easier in Australia and a towcar with a retrofitted electric trailer braking system doesn’t have to be type approved.

Cars in Australia have to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR) which is similar in concept to EU Type Approval - but clearly ADR allows/expects electric trailer brakes at much higher towing ratios than in Europe.

 

[Lutz]

Cars in Australia have to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR) which is similar in concept to EU Type Approval - but clearly ADR allows/expects electric trailer brakes at much higher towing ratios than in Europe.

ADR has nothing to do with type approval and shouldn't be confused with it. ADR is more like UK Construction and Use Regulations. Maybe Australia doesn't have type approval but relies solely on self certification, just like the US with their FMVSS safety standards.
Trailers over 3500kg have to have an independent braking system in the UK, too. Overrun braking systems are not acceptable for such trailers.