Vehicle type approval explained
90d6c2e1-a63a-446d-87ae-688cb725dddd
Type Approval certificates are issued for every new vehicle sold in Europe. Here we explain what Type Approval is and what is and isn't tested
From April 29, 2012, every motorhome sold in the UK and in the other European member states must be Type Approved. The requirements for seats, seatbelts and their anchorage points are all clearly defined in these regulations. However, motorhomes are not subject to crash tests under the Type Approval framework.
The ECWVTA (European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval) requires vehicle manufacturers to obtain a package of separate system and component approvals. Once the separate approvals are in place, the manufacturer may seek approval for the ‘whole vehicle’; the whole vehicle process ensures that all the system and component approvals are compatible and applicable to the vehicle type.
At each stage, a sample of the type is tested and/or inspected and the specification documented. Finally, conformity of production in the assembly plant is assessed to ensure that the manufacturers can produce vehicles in conformity with the approved specification.
Annex XVI of Directive 2007/46/EC caters for multi-stage build vehicles where a second-stage manufacturer modifies a first stage vehicle, for example a motorhome manufacturer who builds on a chassis supplied by a different manufacturer.
In this case the motorhome manufacturer can use the approvals from the base vehicle provided it does not modify the specification of the base vehicle. If the base vehicle is modified then the motorhome manufacturer will have to get that aspect re-approved. So, for example, a motorhome manufacturer must not make changes to the brakes if it wants to use the base vehicle’s brake approval. But if it modifies the seats for example then it must get its own approval for seat strength.
The regulations also make provision for “special purpose vehicles” such as motorhomes. This allows manufacturers some concessions over other vehicles because of their special purpose.
In the case of seats, the concession is that the requirements for seat strength apply only to travel seats that are designated for normal use when the vehicle is travelling and identified as such. And the requirements for interior fittings only apply to equipment in the part of the vehicle in front of the rearmost travel seat.
The travel seats are tested for the strength of their structure and anchorages, and the interior is tested for radius of edges and, in some cases energy absorption on impact.
In relation to safety, Type Approval establishes that a vehicle design has met legislated standards for safety and environmental protection.
Type Approval is required at first registration in the UK. In addition, all vehicles must comply with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 and the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989.
The following is from the Department for Transport agency, the VCA, which carries out Type Aprroval certification in the UK. It says:
Routes to certification
Until the relevant application date for a particular vehicle category, existing national arrangements will be in place. However, once the relevant application date applies, the following routes to certification will be available:European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA)
EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) is based around EC Directives and provides for the approval of whole vehicles, in addition to vehicle systems and separate components. This certification is accepted throughout the EU without the need for further testing until a standard is updated or your design changes.
Low volume/Small Series Manufacturers
Full EC whole vehicle type approval (ECWVTA) won't suit everyone, particularly those manufacturing vehicles in low numbers. In recognition of this fact there are a number of other approval routes available, including:
National Small Series Type Approval (NSSTA)
(National Small Series Type Approval) is a UK national scheme for low volume manufacturers who intend to sell only in the UK. The advantages of NSSTA are relaxed technical requirements for some subjects, reduced Conformity of Production (CoP) requirement, and reduction in administrative requirements. Like ECWVTA, once the design is approved, individual vehicles do not need to be tested.
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA)
Individual Vehicle Approval) is a UK national scheme and the most likely route for those manufacturing or importing single vehicles or very small numbers. IVA does not require CoP as it is based on inspecting each vehicle, although most bodybuilders and converters will work with manufacturers to ensure there is no warranty compromise.
Under IVA, vehicles have to be inspected by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) in Great Britain or the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland.
Recent Updates
Engine management lights: all you need to know
What is the engine management light? What does it mean, and what do I have to do? ...
Motorhome air suspension: all you need to know
Motorhomes are heavy and the additional weight of equipment and height of the bodywork can increase the loads ...
Motorhome WiFi: how to get better motorhome internet
Staying connected on the move is more and more essential, so relying on campsite WiFi isn't an option – here ...
A class of their own - our guide to A-class motorhomes
Thinking of trading up to an A-class, or even going straight to the top of the motorhome tree? We guide you ...
Explore overseas on a motorhome dream tour
Enjoy exotic travel in a campervan or motorhome by hiring, swapping with someone else or exporting your ...
Motorhome water systems: everything you need to know
On-board water is an important part of every motorhome – here’s everything you need to know ...
Campervanning in Europe: what you need to know
Whether you're planning a leisurely drive through the French countryside, navigating bustling city streets in ...
Campervan security: all you need to know
With thefts on the increase, it’s important to know how to keep your campervan secure and prevent campervan ...
Campervan furniture: everything you need to know
Our campervan experts guide you through all the essentials for your campervan, including tables, chairs, ...
Campervan finance: how to fund your purchase
Here we look at the different types of campervan finance available, to help you decide what’s the best option ...
Other Articles
Britain’s best used motorhomes
Want a great motorhome without paying the premium for a new one? Here's a guide to the best you can get in the pre-owned market for each layout, ...
Which motorhome? Choosing the perfect motorhome for you
Choosing a motorhome or campervan is one of the biggest buying decisions you’ll ever make, so it's important ...
Campervan washroom essentials: stay fresh on the road
Our guide will take you through the campervan washroom essentials you'll need so you're well-prepared for ...
Dogs in campervans: all you need to know
Follow our advice and your dog will enjoy campervanning as much as you do ...
Electric campervans: all you need to know
Our guide will take you through everything you need to know about electric campervans and what the future ...
Motorhome electrics: a complete guide to your motorhome electrical set-up
Motorhome electrics can dramatically enhance the convenience and comfort of your vehicle – but they can be ...
Lighting for campervans: all you need to know
We guide you through all the lighting options available for you and your campervan, including interior ...
Electric bikes for motorhomes: our ultimate guide
Read our comprehensive guide to electric bikes for motorhome owners, helping you add electric power to your ...
Our guide to 'cheap' motorhomes in 2024
If you're on the hunt for an affordable new motorhome, this is the best place to start – we've rounded up a ...
Campervans in winter: all you need to know
Here's your guide to preparing your campervan for the colder months, whether you will be using it or putting ...