How much the new Whole Vehicle Type Approval system will cost the transport industry when it comes into effect next April is still unclear, a seminar organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has heard.
The only established cost to date is the £1,785 for chassis cab, bodywork and supply chain manufacturers needing the Conformity of Production (CoP) test for type approval.
From 29 April 2009, all parts required to build a HGV will need a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) - which can only be issued by suppliers with CoP. Once a manufacturer has CoP in place, it can issue CoCs, and initial costs will depend on which type-approval route it takes.
Full European means limitless CoCs can be issued National Small Series limits the CoC numbers and Individual Vehicle Approval requires each vehicle to be inspected.
According to the SMMT, 100,000 vans and trucks required bodywork last year, and it estimates there are 1,000 active UK bodybuilders. One bodywork manufacturer believes little if any cost will be passed on from Full European status, compared to National Small Series or Individual Vehicle Approval - where there is less volume to dilute costs.
"The main problem for time and cost will be multi-stage build and bespoke. We will be penalised as CoP costs will mount according to the number of different ranges and suppliers used," he said.
Asked if he was likely to pass costs forward, he replied "no comment". For more information on type approval, visit the VCA website.
