We’re honoured to announce we now have VCA Whole Vehicle Type Approval for our campervans built on Ford’s V710 platform.
Underpinning the second generation Ford Transit Custom, the V710 platform represents the next generation of base vehicle for Redline’s campervan conversions. This includes our Practical Motorhome Award-winning, Sport GT campervan conversion.
In order to gain VCA Type Approval through the GB Small Series Approval Scheme, our Ford-based conversions were voluntarily subjected to a rigorous set of safety tests.
Put in place by the Department for Transport (DfT), the tests are designed to ensure the vehicles meet specified performance standards and are safe to drive on the road. This involved testing on the base vehicles and every component we utilise as part of our conversion, and focused on areas including structural integrity, seatbelt and anchorage systems, and vehicle electrical systems.
To gain VCA Type Approval, we were also had to demonstrate we have an ISO 9001:2015 quality management system in place.
In addition to now being VCA Whole Vehicle Type Approved, our second-generation Ford Transit Custom campervan conversions also have National Caravan Council (NCC) Manufacturer Approval. Gaining this approval also required the voluntary safety testing of the conversion. However, the NCC focused upon the vehicle’s gas and electrical installations, furnishings, and cooking equipment.
To continue to hold both approvals, we agree to regular surveillance audits and safety testing of our conversions and the components utilised within them.
Commenting on the safety testing undertaken by the VCA and the NCC, Production Manager at Redline Campers, Ben Marks said:
“Having the approval of the VCA and the NCC is of incredible importance to us. Both provide a comprehensive, multi-layered testing regime for our campervans, this enables us to not only ensure their quality but crucially, their safety too.
In order to be recognised as a manufacturer offering quality and safe conversions, it was key for us to have both of these approvals. That’s because these two organisations focus on different elements of the vehicle and are recognised in different ways.
The VCA oversees a broad range of automotive safety checks covering structural integrity, seatbelt and anchorage systems, and vehicle electrical systems. All of which are critical for roadworthiness and occupant protection.
The NCC on the other hand, focuses on the habitation side of the vehicle, conducting inspections, audits, and ongoing compliance checks, and covering essential areas such as gas and electrical safety, ventilation, and overall habitation standards. It was important for us to achieve NCC approval, as this is widely renowned as a mark of quality and safety in the leisure vehicle industry, and gives our vehicles a badge that is recognisable to many.”
It is important to note that neither VCA Type Approval nor NCC Approval are mandatory for campervan conversions. Every aspect of the testing undertaken by the VCA and NCC were voluntarily agreed to by us at Redline Campers, as part of the company’s commitment to quality and safety.
Looking to learn more?
Discover Our Approvals and Certifications
Whilst should you have further questions, our team will always be happy to help. You can call them on 01327 703371, or email them at sales@redline-campers.com
