Is VASP approval necessary for your converted van?

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The question of VASP approval often raises concerns. You are probably wondering if this process is essential after converting your utility vehicle? Don’t worry, we help you clarify this crucial point.

The answer is simpler than it seems. By the end of this article, you will be able to make an informed decision on the subject: whether to undertake this approval procedure or not? 

We will detail the situations where the DREAL mandatorily requires VASP approval, and those where you may possibly do without it.

Criteria that require VASP approval

To obtain a VASP Caravane approval, your vehicle must meet specific requirements. This rule also applies if you plan a VASP approval for an ambulance or a fire truck, although the criteria differ depending on the targeted category.

It is essential to understand that all these classifications (VASP, CTTE, VP, etc.) appearing on line J1 of the registration certificate have a specific purpose: to ensure that the vehicle identification documents accurately reflect its configuration and actual use.

Imagine a converted van that has all the characteristics of a Motorhome but whose registration certificate designates it as a goods transport vehicle (CTTE). From then on, in certain situations, complications could arise during your travels. The principle is the same for vans: consistency is paramount!

To be classified as a Motorhome, your vehicle must imperatively meet 5 specific criteria, defined in the European directive 2007/46/CE (section 5.1). This regulation states that vehicles intended for habitation must be equipped with the following elements in their living space:

• A convertible bench seat (fixed beds are tolerated in 99% of cases)
• A kitchen area with a fixed cooking element
• Seating places
• Storage spaces
• Everything must be immovable.

All of this equipment must be permanently fixed to obtain the Motorhome classification.

If your conversion meets these conditions, the VASP approval procedure then becomes mandatory. We will discuss later in this article the potential consequences of not complying with this obligation.

Today, simply removing an element (such as the kitchen area or the entire table and seats) is often used as a reliable solution to pass the technical inspection peacefully since the vehicle does not meet all the requirements to be classified as VASP.

Is VASP approval essential to remain compliant with the law?

There is a legal alternative to VASP approval! The key lies in keeping your van below the criteria that would classify it as a Motorhome. To legally drive a converted van without going through the dreal VASP approval procedure, here are the essential points to respect:

- A minimalist van conversion

Let's take the example of a vehicle where the modification consists mostly of removable elements: this allows the vehicle to pass the technical inspection without difficulty.

To legally keep a CTTE registration certificate (van), the modifications must remain moderate.

Below is a summary table detailing the authorized modifications and those to avoid to remain compliant without requiring VASP approval:

YOU WILL BE ABLE TO	YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO
Insulating your vehicle	Installing a fixed cooking system
Laying an interior lining	Installing a pop-up roof (notably for L1H1 vans like Transporter T5)
Installing a complete electrical system (including solar panels)	Installing a Gas heating system
Installing openings (windows, roof vents, ventilation systems, etc.)	Setting up a water heater operating with hazardous materials (gas, diesel...)
Installing a worktop (without a fixed cooking point)	Gas installation is generally refused during technical inspections without appropriate VASP approval (Motorhome or food truck)
Building furniture elements (It is recommended to favor easily removable installations)

IMPORTANT NOTE: This list is not exhaustive and note that the assessment remains highly dependent on the technical inspection center. 

It is advisable to contact one or more centers beforehand, explaining the situation, and you will get an initial opinion from the inspector. However, some technical inspection centers can be particularly strict if they detect signs of sleeping arrangements. In case of dispute, do not hesitate to assert your rights by citing directive 2007/46/EC mentioned earlier. Inspection centers cannot interpret the regulations at their own discretion!

- The question of the separating partition:

A crucial point! If you keep the CTTE status without going through the dreal VASP approval, your vehicle must remain dedicated to the transport of goods. In this case, the removal of the separating partition is subject to restrictions (unlike VASP approval which allows its removal with the manufacturer's agreement if it concerns the structure). For a van retaining its CTTE status, here are the rules:

• For vehicles from 2012 or newer, the original partition must be retained
• For vehicles prior to 2012, removal is allowed

We have not found any official documentation confirming this information provided by the insurance and the DREAL. However, given the credibility of these authoritative bodies, we consider this information reliable. The primary function of the partition being to prevent the movement of goods forward, this logic seems consistent (even if the origin of the date remains mysterious). Within the framework of a VASP approval, the removal of the partition is possible because AFNOR standards require a layout that guarantees the safety of all users, notably by preventing installations from threatening the driver and passengers.

Here are our recommendations regarding the separating partition:

• Favor common sense: if removing the partition requires modifications compromising the vehicle's structural integrity, keep it or request the manufacturer's authorization.
• For vehicles post-2012, we recommend obtaining written authorization from the insurance, ideally accompanied by the manufacturer's agreement.

It is important to note that neither the DREAL nor the technical inspection will sanction you, whether you keep or remove the partition. This decision essentially depends on your INSURANCE!

Additional note: The partition in the van remains a very good way to secure your vehicle and thermally insulate it. When you install locks (Méroni type) on the side door and rear doors, with a partition there will be no possible intrusion to the rear of the vehicle from the front doors. There will also be fewer thermal bridges from the front windshield to the rear of the vehicle, the windshield being one of the most difficult parts to insulate.

What are the consequences if I do not approve my van even though it is converted into a Motorhome?

If your van is converted into a Motorhome without going through the VASP approval, there is a discrepancy with its registration certificate! This situation can cause major complications, especially during the technical inspection, where you risk a categorical refusal, or worse, serious repercussions regarding your insurances. It would be particularly unfortunate to be denied reimbursement in case of an accident, simply for neglecting the RTI file procedure, wouldn't it?

It is important to specify that we are only dealing here with the implications of a lack of approval for a vehicle that meets all the criteria of a Motorhome!

Note also that some insurances cover the vehicle according to the use the insured makes of it and not only based on the registration certificate. Contact your insurer to learn more about these terms.

Some insurances cover the vehicle based on its use, which can be a solution to be properly insured!