The warning comes from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is as it launches a van maintenance campaign at the CV Show in Birmingham.
The organisation says that almost two thirds (63%) of the 10,800 vans stopped by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) at the roadside each year have a serious mechanical defect, while more than nine out of 10 (93%) are overloaded.
Around half of all vehicles stopped posed a road safety risk and were subsequently taken off the road at a cost to their owners of some £4,000 per day.
Meanwhile, 50% of vans also fail their annual MOT test first time, compared with just 22% of HGVs.
Currently, goods vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes are exempt from the Operator Licensing regime that applies to heavier vehicles. The SMMT said it has been working closely with the DVSA and other industry stakeholders to ensure this exemption remains in place. At current HGV fee levels, the collective industry bill for licensing for vans could stretch to as much as £2.1bn.
To help this process SMMT is publishing an easy to follow van safety guidance at www.smmt.co.uk/vansafety.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Britain’s 3.2 million vans are essential for the smooth running of the economy but their recent safety record is a matter of concern. Vans rack up huge distances and endure significant wear and tear on a daily basis so regular servicing is essential. We’re launching a new campaign to promote maintenance so businesses can take the necessary steps to ensure their vehicles are safe, protecting their drivers and other road users without the need for further fines and regulations.”
