Van compliance is moving closer to HGVs thanks to a raft of new legislation that creates additional responsibilities for fleets., says Arval.
The fleet leasing and mobility specialist says some light commercial vehicle (LCV) operators are facing significant growth in regulation, including new MOT rules, changes to drivers’ hours and enhanced tachograph requirements.
Eddie Parker, LCV consultant, said, “Businesses which have historically treated vans as lower-risk fleet assets could now face growing legal and operational exposure.
“For many, the issue is not simply compliance with individual rule changes. Rather it is whether their existing fleet governance, policies and procedures have kept pace with how regulators and enforcement authorities are increasingly viewing van operations.”
Among the vehicles affected are the 4.25 tonne electric vans that many fleets are adopting to replace existing 3.5 tonne diesel models. While recent changes in the UK mean these will no longer be covered by tachograph or year one MOT test rules, they will need to comply with new DVSA heavy vehicle testing changes introduced during January and February of 2026.
Applying to all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, these will include ADAS visual inspection checks, digital PG10 prohibition clearance notices, revised plating certificate processes and – for those used as passenger service vehicles – compliance with door safety testing equipment.
Also, for all vehicles over 2.5 tonnes, newly registered goods vehicles used internationally for hire and reward will require smart tachograph equipment under the final phase of the EU Mobility Package that takes effect this month.
Eddie said this greater regulatory interest had been prompted by the road safety risk that LCVs represented. For example, data from the International Road Union showed commercial vehicles were involved in almost one in five road incidents and one in three fatalities, he added.
“We’re seeing a broader trend towards increased data capture, standardisation and evidential scrutiny across all commercial vehicle operations. Because of this, the distinction between ‘van fleet’ and a truck-style ‘regulated transport operation’ is becoming increasingly blurred.”
