Automotive design rules in the USA

[Afrotechmods]

I've been asked to design an aftermarket product that would be installed in cars, buses and possibly trains. It would be used to filter power and provide power to various low powered peripherals that are not related to the automobile's normal functions. It's not going to be mounted near an engine compartment or anything harsh like that, and the client seems okay with 0-70ºC rated components seeing as everything it will be powering will be limited to that anyway.

Are there specific rules, laws or testing standards that need to be followed to launch such a product in the USA? And if so, could someone point me in the right direction?

Big thanks to anyone who has experience in this area!

[IanB]

You could probably make a start with Underwriters Laboratories: http://www.ul.com/global/eng/pages/