DLVA classification dilemma

[Ian Maddocks]

Picked up a new Ocean last weekend and found two problems on my V5:

1. Model not listed as a Cali but a Transporter
2. Body type listed as MPV

#1 is a clerical error, the dealer needs to fix.
#2 is the new norm for all Californias from 1st May 2019, DLVA rule change.

My dilemma is should I keep it as an MPV or request it to be reclassified as a ‘Van with side windows’ which I think DLVA will be open to.

The advantage of ‘Van ...’ means I can get insurance from the Motorhome insurers which are reasonably priced, have gap insurance, and cover the whole camper and its increased personal possessions.

The disadvantage is ‘Van ...’ has a -10MPH speed restriction on dual carriageways.

Both have the risk that some sites may not accept me, so irrelevant.

Personally I don’t know why DLVA won’t classify it as a Camper Van, it discrirbes the outside appearance of the vehicle which is what DLVA want now from Body Type, but I don’t think that’s an option.

 

[Lightning]

There is no right answer here. I would consider the implications on resale. Which is worse? I would not buy either.


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[Lightning]

After thinking about it I would opt for the speed restriction. The inability to get Campervan insurance would be a showstopper for me as I need long term cover in Europe.

A van designation may have other problems associated with commercial vehicle restrictions on new estates and tolls etc




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[LemonDrop]

Are you sure you can't get camper van insurance? We're with Safeguard and having spoken to them about the MPV classification they confirmed that the raising roof/bed etc were covered. We've got a Beach so no kitchen but I think it would be worth speaking to them as they seemed adamant that the MPV classification did not effect cover.

 

[MattBW]

Mpv has the same speed limits as a motor caravan. I don’t see any advantage of changing to van. It will also be cheaper on the tunnel etc

 

[Lightning]

Mpv has the same speed limits as a motor caravan. I don’t see any advantage of changing to van. It will also be cheaper on the tunnel etc

Yes, but Motorcaravan insurance isn’t available, at least with some insurers. He said it is for a window van though.


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[Neuon2003]

The inability to get Campervan insurance would be a showstopper for me as I need long term cover in Europe.

This is my concern too: the lack of "touring" insurance (i.e. more than the typical 60/90 days per year) because the specialists who offer this require the "motor caravan' description. A Plan are indicating a response to the DVLA changes (see HERE) but have not yet checked with them on the MPV and "touring" aspect.

 

[Neuon2003]

I don’t see any advantage of changing to van.

Just musing. I wonder whether there will be a choice in the future? DVLA may come under scrutiny to explain why the VW California conversion and the Mercedes Marco Polo are MPV but other conversions are vans with windows. It might be that this is due to EU Type Approval (ECWVTA) of the California base vehicle (RH conversion of a Multivan?). After Brexit DVLA may be able to affect any MPV 'anomaly'.