That’s the message from Venson Automotive Solutions, which says that although the introduction of the Van Enhancement Scheme N1 reduces some of the approval burden for vehicle modifications – such as shelving or ply-lining – many changes still potentially fall under WVTA ECWVTA requirements.
As a result, Venson is advising fleet managers to take the opportunity of reviewing the number of vehicle specifications they are realistically likely to use to ensure they don’t face increased lead times or higher costs because of needing to go down the IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) or National Small Series Approval route.
Samantha Roff, managing director of Venson Automotive Solutions, said: ’While we understand some modifications are essential for a fleet, there are some add-ons requested that may not be essential for the day-to-day running of a vehicle. For that reason we are urge those involved in fleet procurement to really weigh up what their vehicles will be used for. What might be a nice-to-have extra on paper could mean delays to the vehicle becoming operational.’
Roff continued: ‘We would urge fleets to see the added Type Approval requirements as an opportunity to review their vehicle needs and streamline their costs. If a modification is going to mean the vehicle needs Type Approval and will take longer to be delivered, it could be time to decide whether that modification is a ‘”must-have” or “nice-to-have”.
‘Whole Vehicle Type Approval legislation is crucial to protecting the industry, and we wholeheartedly welcome its implementation,’ concluded Roff. ‘However businesses need to work smarter to help ensure disruption is kept to a minimum and Venson has the experience and infrastructure to deal with Type Approval regulations.’
