HVIA recommends all members review their component and vehicle approvals to ensure on-going compliance with the new Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) that came into effect on July 1, 2021.
In October last year, HVIA advised members of the need to review, and potentially renew, ‘opt-in’ Component Type Approvals (CTAs) and Vehicle Type Approvals (VTAs), which may expire between July 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.
The arrangements to obtain an ‘opt-in’ transitional approval only applied for six months after commencement of the new RVSA on July 1, 2021. At that time, eligible holders of some approvals under the previous Motor Vehicle Standards Act could transition to a new type approval via an opt-in process.
Under Section 5 of the RVSA, a five-year time limit applies to the ‘opt-in’ approvals, hence the upcoming expiry period. HVIA understands that ‘opt-in’ approvals are not the majority, however, there will be members holding opt-in approvals that will be impacted.
Earlier this month, the Federal Department of Infrastructure released updated information on applying to continue supply of a vehicle covered by an opted-in vehicle type approval, which can be accessed here.
HVIA understands some members holding ‘opt-in’ approvals have been contacted directly by the department.
Some members have raised concerns to HVIA regarding aspects of the re-application process, including the need to provide updated evidence of compliance.
Members are invited to discuss these issues with HVIA Chief Engineer Rachel Michaud (r.michaud@hvia.asn.au) or Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger (a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au), who will assist in providing a resolution.
As always, HVIA recommends that all members regularly review their component and vehicle approvals to ensure on-going regulatory compliance.