Converting a Car into a Commercial Vehicle

Converting a car into a commercial vehicle is a complex process that requires significant modifications to the vehicle’s structure and appearance. This type of conversion is generally offered by companies specialized in vehicle transformation or by mechanical workshops with specific expertise. Below are the general phases involved in the process of converting a car into a commercial vehicle:

  • Vehicle acquisition. Start by acquiring a car that is suitable for conversion into a commercial vehicle. A vehicle with a robust load-bearing structure that can be modified to accommodate a cargo area must be chosen.
  • Interior removal. The car’s interior components, such as rear seats, roof lining, and trunk, are removed to create space for the cargo area.
  • Chassis modification. The car’s chassis may require modifications to increase its load capacity and make it more durable. This may involve adding structural reinforcements, extending the chassis, or making other necessary modifications.
  • Creation of cargo area. The rear cargo area is created, which can be made in various shapes and sizes based on specific requirements. This part of the conversion depends on the type of commercial vehicle desired, such as a van, fixed bed, or tipper truck.

Commercial Vehicle Conversion: how it Works

  • Rear door installation. If the commercial vehicle requires a rear door or gate for cargo area access, it is installed at this stage.
  • Suspension and tire adjustment. The car’s suspension and tires are adapted to support the additional weight of the cargo area and the load itself.
  • Electrical and electronic adjustments. Adjustments to the vehicle’s electrical and electronic systems may be necessary, such as adding additional rear lights for commercial vehicle signaling.
  • Homologation and registration. Once the conversion is complete, the vehicle must undergo safety checks and homologation to ensure it meets current regulations for commercial vehicles. Subsequently, it must be registered as a commercial vehicle with the relevant authorities.

converting car to commercial vehicle

What European Regulations Say about Commercial Vehicle Conversion

The European regulation concerning the type-approval of motor vehicles and their trailers, as well as their components, is governed by Directive 2007/46/EC of the European Parliament. This directive establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the type-approval process. To obtain vehicle type-approval, manufacturers consequently have the option to follow one of these procedures:

  • Step-by-step approval. In this case, the manufacturer must therefore compile detailed documentation during the vehicle’s design and production process. This documentation must contain all necessary technical information and must be accompanied by the required approval certificates.
  • Single-step approval. An alternative is to obtain approval in a single step, without going through intermediate stages. This simplified process can be chosen by manufacturers.
  • Mixed approval. In some circumstances, the approval authority may grant a mixed procedure, where the manufacturer is not required to submit one or more specific approval certificates.

In any case, the manufacturer must submit an approval request to the competent authority and make the necessary vehicles available for conducting the approval procedures. This process ensures that all vehicles placed on the European market comply with the safety standards and technical regulations established by the Directive.

(image source: Freepik)