The Swift Group, manufacturers of the Ace, Bessacarr and Swift range of motorhomes, has become the first UK manufacturer to gain European Whole Vehicle Type Approval.
The approval, required by law on all vehicles from July 2007, covers all 2004 models and confirms they are built to the highest safety standards and can be sold throughout Europe.
Motorhome safety is a crucial factor to consider when buying a new motorhome and there is no higher standard to meet than European Whole Vehicle Type Approval.
A host of stringent regulations that govern the design and safety of all road vehicles and the systems they contain, the approval covers virtually every component of the base vehicle as well as the conversion.
In order to gain the certificate, a sample vehicle of every type must be assessed by and independent auditor, which in the case of the Swift Group, was Lux Control in Luxemburg.
The inspection certifies the construction processes used in the vehicle are safe, consistently repeatable in production and suitably documented as conforming to the legislation.
Each vehicle carries a unique Vehicle Identification plate and a Certificate of Conformity.
"To have achieved these standards more than three years before they become mandatory is a clear illustration of the importance we place on producing products of the highest safety and manufacturing standards.
"As the first British manufacturer to achieve these standards this sets us apart from our competitors and places us in the top division of motorhomes manufacturers in Europe, " Joe Anwyll, Swift Group Managing Director commented.
A view supported by Motor Caravan Magazine who quoted "Compared to the rest of the British market, they are years ahead of the competition. It's great to see a British manufacturer leading the field of motorhome safety."