Type-approval of one-off vehicles: technical and regulatory consultancy
Your technical partner, supporting you from design analysis through to implementation
L’omologazione dei veicoli in esemplare unico (nota anche come IVA – Individual Vehicle Approval secondo l’art.44 del Regolamento EU/2018/858) è la procedura tecnico-normativa pensata per veicoli realizzati come prototipi o per trasformazioni di veicoli di grande serie destinati a usi specifici. Enginext affianca aziende e operatori lungo tutto l’iter, con un supporto che unisce analisi tecnica, gestione documentale e coordinamento delle attività fino alla certificazione.
The type-approval service for one-off vehicles
Type-approval as a single prototype is required when production volumes are too low to justify mass-production type-approval. Enginext supports projects involving cars, motorcycles, lorries, trailers and special-purpose vehicles (categories M, N and O) and manages the entire process, right through to the granting of approval by the relevant authorities.
Design and regulatory consultancy
Enginext provides technical and regulatory support right from the design or conversion stage: this support is invaluable in helping clients make the right decisions regarding structural alterations, fittings and compliance requirements. Although not mandatory, this preliminary consultancy is a practical tool for minimising rework and issues during the inspection phase.
Technical analysis and preliminary checks
Before commencing the process, Enginext carries out a vehicle analysis and an assessment of the current situation, including a review of the applicable requirements. The aim is to identify any deviations from regulatory criteria and to define a coherent technical approach for type-approval as a single prototype.
Testing and trials for type approval
We plan and coordinate testing and inspection activities to verify safety, stability, emissions and technical compliance. The aim is to obtain objective and verifiable evidence, which is necessary to support the documentation to be submitted to the authorities.
Authorisation process
Enginext handles all documentation and procedural aspects: we produce the technical assessments required to certify technical evaluations and findings relating to modifications and compliance. We then gather the evidence, compile the technical type-approval dossier, and submit all the documentation to the relevant authorities.
What types of one-off vehicles do we deal with?
Enginext handles various types of single-unit type-approval in Italy, employing a structured approach tailored to the objectives, vehicle configuration and technical context.
Type approval of modified vehicles
We assist companies with the re-type approval of vehicles that have already been registered but have undergone significant modifications. We deal with vehicles that, although originally produced as standard models (e.g. vans), have been modified for specific purposes and require a new technical classification. We handle all technical assessments aimed at certifying structural or functional modifications to ensure the vehicle’s renewed roadworthiness.
Prototypes and new vehicles produced in limited numbers
We assist businesses and manufacturers with the type-approval of projects developed as new vehicles. This service is aimed at industrial firms or specialist workshops that produce one-off models or very limited production runs. We manage the specific technical and regulatory process required to transform an engineering design into a vehicle eligible for registration.
Everything with a single
point of contact
In type-approval projects for one-off vehicles (and, more generally, for other vehicle categories), timelines and technical consistency often depend on the ability to effectively coordinate activities, tests and documentation. This is why Enginext acts as the sole coordinator, planning and managing the various stages of the project with a structured and reliable approach.
Who we cater for
Enginext’s VAT registration service is aimed exclusively at professionals and businesses such as:
Fitters and converters
Companies that modify standard vehicles for special-purpose use or customised fittings
Small builders and start-ups
Companies developing new prototypes or vehicles in limited production
Importers (non-EU)
Companies that place vehicles on the Italian market that are manufactured in markets such as China or the US and do not have standard European type-approval
Dealers and specialist garages
Who need to implement technical changes for their business customers
Why choose Enginext
To have a knowledgeable, efficient and reliable partner on your side.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How much does a single-unit type-approval cost?
Turnaround times vary depending on the vehicle category and the complexity of the tests required. Enginext provides an accurate estimate at the start of the process and works to minimise the waiting time between the various stages.
How long does it take to type-approve a one-off vehicle?
Timelines vary depending on the technical complexity. Enginext optimises processing times, particularly for vehicles with a certain degree of scalability or technical repeatability, thereby reducing the impact of administrative procedures on time-to-market.
What is the difference between type approval and single-unit type approval (IVA)?
Type-approval (national or European) is intended for series production and requires certification of the production system (COP). Individual Vehicle Approval, on the other hand, applies to individual vehicles, prototypes or specific modifications, where each unit is assessed individually without the need for a COP.
Is it possible to type-approve vehicles imported from non-EU markets (e.g. China or the USA)?
Yes, the single-unit procedure can be used to regularise imported vehicles that do not have standard European type-approval. Enginext assists importers in identifying the tests required to demonstrate compliance with the safety and environmental requirements in force in Italy or Europe.