SPV standards

Safety measures have just come into force, making it easier for special-purpose-vehicle (SPV) manufacturers to access European markets.

The measures, which already apply to cars, are in response to the European Directive on Whole Vehicle Type Approval Directive (ECWVTA) to be phased in between 2009 and 2014.

Under the standards, SPV manufacturers will be responsible for meeting a range of construction requirements in the areas of braking, lighting, crash safety and emissions. The manufacturer's production processes will also be assessed to confirm that each vehicle on the production line conforms to the same standards.

Jim Fitzpatrick, transport minister, said: ‘These measures present a great opportunity for improving the safety and environmental performance of all vehicles across Europe.

‘In addition, they will open up European markets to British manufacturers by removing the technical barriers to trade and lessening the administrative burden,’ he added.

On the back on plans to reduce regulatory burden, the Department for Transport (

) has also implemented national approval schemes that will be available at a lower cost. Low-volume manufacturers that would like to sell in the UK will be required to meet National Small Series Type Approval or Individual Vehicle Approval requirements, rather than the ECWVTA.