Venson Automotive Solutions is urging businesses to give greater consideration to the vehicle modifications required for their fleet, in the wake of the new Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) requirements. 

Although the new N1 Enhancements Scheme has gone some way to reducing the additional approval required for commercial vehicle alterations, many modifications still potentially fall under WVTA requirements. 

This has led Venson to advise 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: "The fantastic work between the SMMT, VCA, VOSA and key van manufacturers and converters, to secure the Van Enhancement Scheme for N1 and N2 vehicles has meant that a huge layer of admin has been removed.

“However, to comply with the new regulations, some vehicles will still require Type Approval.

“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.”

The new N1 Enhancements Scheme has removed the requirement for approval for basic modifications to a commercial vehicle, such as shelving or ply-lining.

However, larger or complicated modifications, such as security systems or towing solutions, may still need approval.

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’.”