An all too common question. In a nutshell, the NZ Government requires that all vehicles meet applicable safety requirements. Once a vehicle is modified from it's original state or is scratch-built, there needs to be a method of ensuring continued compliance.
The LVV certification system is necessary because it is not practical to test individual or low‐volume modifications and construction features against the expensive test processes required by the international standards which apply to high‐volume production vehicles.
The purpose of the low volume vehicle certification system, therefore, is to ensure that all modified production vehicles ‐ whether modified for commercial, passenger service, disability, recreational, leisure, sporting, or compliance purposes – and scratch‐built vehicles, have been designed and constructed in such a way that they are safe to be operated on the road, and comply as closely as practicable with the legal safety requirements applicable to high volume production vehicles.
The above is an except taken from the LVV Code. Click to learn more >>
LVV Standards
LVV Standards are developed by LVVTA, and are incorporated by reference in the NZ Land Transport Rules.
Previous versions of all LVV Standards are available on request by email.
An Index of all LVV Standards can be found at the end of this section.
Braking Systems 35-00(02) (2016)
Chassis Modification & Construction 40-00(00) (2021)
Disability Adaptive Control Systems 45-30(05) (2016)
Disability Transportation Systems 45-60(02) (2016)
Trikes with Motorcycle Controls Formsets. NOTE: This document can be used as a guide for trikes and motorcycles until such time as the relevant LVV Standards have been developed.
Standards index Vol 2 Standards index Vol 3
LVV Motorcycle Standards
Note that some of the above LVV Standards are also relevant to some L-Class (motorcycles and trikes) vehicles.
Frame Modification & Construction - Motorcycles 145-15(00) (2026)
Body Modification & Construction – Motorcycles 145-55(00) (2026)
Seating - Motorcycles 145-60(00) (2026)
Glazing & Vision – Motorcycles 145-65(00) (2026)
LVV Certification Threshold Guide
Not all modifications need LVV Certification. This threshold guide clearly define what does, and what doesn't need LVV Certification. The information contained within the 'modification tables' in the WoF VIRM comes from the LVV Certification Threshold Guide, which is in turn provided with it's information by the 'Exclusions to this standard' sections of each Low Volume Vehicle Standard.
Certification Threshold Guide
Certification Threshold index
NZ Car Construction Manual
The NZ Car Construction Manual is developed by LVVTA, and is incorporated by reference into the LVV Standards, which are in turn incorporated by reference in the NZ Land Transport Rules. It's available either as a free downloaded or can be purchased as a hard-copy manual assembled in a ring-binder. Click here for ammendment records.
NZ Car Construction Manual (hard-copy manual in a ring-binder)
NZ Car Construction Manual (complete electronic download)
Chapter 1 - Low Volume Vehicle System
Chapter 2 - About this Manual
Chapter 3 - Authority Card Process
Chapter 4 - Build Approval Process
Chapter 5 - Chassis Modification & Construction
Chapter 6 - Suspension Systems
Chapter 7 - Steering Systems
Chapter 8 - Braking Systems
Chapter 9 - Engine & Drive-train
Chapter 10 - Fuel Systems
Chapter 11 - Emission Systems - Part 1 - Exhaust Noise
The NZ Motorcycle Construction Manual is developed by LVVTA, and is incorporated by reference into the LVV Standards, which are in turn incorporated by reference in the NZ Land Transport Rules. It's available below in free downloadable chapters.
Chapter 5 - Frame Modification & Construction - Motorcycles
Chapter 13 - Body Modification & Construction - Motorcycles
Chapter 14 - Seating - Motorcycles
Chapter 15 - Glazing & Vision - Motorcycles
Information Sheets
LVVTA develops and publishes Information Sheets which cover various topics including the latest modification trends or developments, safety related issues, technical information for modifiers, and details relating to changes in LVV processes or documentation.
Information Sheets are divided into Latest,Technical and Non-technical sections. An Index of all LVVTA Information Sheets can be found at the end of this section - click here.
LATEST Information sheets
These are the latest Information Sheets. For more Information Sheets refer to the Technical, and Non-technical sections.
Info 07-2025 - Operating Requirements Schedule Chapters ReleaseNEW!
Info 06-2025 - Motorcycle Construction Manual Chapter ReleaseNEW!
Info 05-2025 - Updates to Chapter 19 Vehicle OperationNEW!
Info 02-2025 - Positioning of Wheelchairs, Restraints, and Seats in Vehicles not subject to PSV Rule
Info 01-2025 - High-sided Race Seats and Three-point (lap and diagonal) Seatbelts
Info 01-2024 - Steering Column Test
Info 03-2023 - LVVTA Classic Car Retro-fit Seatbelt Structure
Info 02-2023 - Aftermarket Tubular Suspension Arms with Cantilever-style Ball Joints
Info 01-2023 Copies of Astro Supreme-brand Wheels
Supercedes previous version, Info 01-2011 - ‘Supreme’‐brand Aftermarket Wheels
Info 01-2022 - Wheel Adaptor Minimum Specifications
Info 10-2021 - Aftermarket Offset Brake Booster Assemblies
Info 09-2021 - Raised Vehicle Stability Calculation
Info 07-2021 - Power to Manual Steering Conversion for Hydraulically-assisted steering racks and steering boxes
Info 05-2020 - Tyre Track and Protrusion of Tyres Beyond Mudguards
Info 04-2020 - Spherical Bearing Rod End Conversion for Steering Tie-rod Ends and Unloaded Suspension Ball-joints (V2 released June 2021)
Info 02-2020 - Wheelchair Restraint & Docking Station Rating Guide (V2)
Info 01-2020 - Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Airbags (revised)
Info 01-2018 - Welding process for cast or forged components
Info 03-2017 - Total Cost Involved (TCI) Independent Front Suspension System Failure
Info 01-2016 - Custom Independent Front & Rear Suspension (IFS/IRS) Approval Application Guide
Info 01-2013 - Unsafe Aftermarket Steering Columns
Info 10-2012 - Modified Kia Carnival Safety Inspection Request
Info 06-2012 - ‘Magnum’-brand I-beam Axle Safety Warning
Info 05-2012 - Welded Aftermarket Suspension Struts
Info 04-2012 - Suspension Camber Angle Guide - NOTE: Some information contained within this document has been superseded - refer to the Suspension Systems LVV Standard for the most up-to-date requirements.
Info 03-2012 - Motorhome Seats - General Information
Info 02-2012 - Aftermarket Sport Seats - General Information
Info 09-2011 Drive-shaft Safety-loop Requirement Clarification -
Withdrawn. For all driveshaft safety-loop requirements see Chapter 9 of the Engine & Drivetrain Chapter, in the NZ Car Construction Manual
Info 08-2011 - Jaguar Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) Installation Guide
Info 05-2011 - Rear Suspension Radius Rod Geometry
Info 07-2025 - Operating Requirements Schedule Chapters ReleaseNEW!
Info 06-2025 - Motorcycle Construction Manual Chapter ReleaseNEW!
Info 05-2025 - Updates to Chapter 19 Vehicle OperationNEW!
Info 04-2025 - New Motorcycle Objective Noise Test (ONT) Documents
Info 03-2025 - Changes to Objective Exhuast Noise Testing
Info 02-2022 - LVV Certification of Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) Upgrades
Info 09-2021 - Raised Vehicle Stability Calculation
Info 08-2021 - Wheels Tyres - updated LVV Standard & NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter
Info 06-2021 - Engine and Drivetrain Conversion - updated LVV Standard, and NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter
Info 05-2021 - Chassis Modification and Construction - New LVV Standard, and updated NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter
Info 04-2021 - Fuel Systems - New LVV Standard, and NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter
Info 03-2021 - Re-issue of Amended Engine and Drivetrain Standard and NZCCM Chapter 9
Info 02-2021 - Explanation of Next-generation LVVTA Technical Documents
Info 01-2021 - Introduction of LVV Electronic Data Plates
Info 03-2020 - Re-issue of Amended Lighting Equipment LVV Standard
Info 01-2020 - Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Airbags (revised)
Info 02-2018 - Modified Production & Scratch-built Low Volume Vehicle Definitions
Info 02-2017 - Introduction of Type-approval System, Re-issue of LVV Code, LVV ORS, & New Forms
Info 01-2017 - Form-set Use & LVV Certification Plate Processing for LVCM-appointed LVV Certifiers
Info 09-2016 - Changes to LVVTA Non-destructive Test Request Form
Info 08-2016 - Re-issue of LVV Code ORS Standards
Info 07-2016 - Drive-shaft Safety-loop Requirements
Withdrawn February 2021. For all driveshaft safety-loop requirements see Chapter 9 of the Engine & Drivetrain Chapter, in the NZ Car Construction Manual
Info 06-2016 - Re-issue of LVV Certification Threshold Schedule (Issue 5)
Info 05-2016 - LVV Certification Requirements for Under-threshold Items
Info 04-2016 - Re-issue of 3 Amended Low Volume Vehicle Standards
Info 03-2016 - Re-issue of Amended LVV Operating Requirements Schedule & LVV Code
Info 02-2016 - Re-issue of 13 Amended Low Volume Vehicle Standards
Info 02-2015 - Technical Support Team for Unusually Complex Modifications
Info 01-2015 - LVV Certifiers Plate Processing Guide
Info 02-2014 - LVVTA Operational Certification Processing Improvements
Info 01-2014 - Series-production Modification Pre-approval Process
Info 02-2013 - New ‘Scratch-built’ and ‘Modified Production’ Definitions -
Superseded - see new version; 02-2018
Info 11-2012 - LVVTA Approval Application Guide
Info 09-2012 - Release of LVV Standard 45-60(00) (Disability Transportation Systems)
Info 08-2012 - Re-issue of LVV Certification Threshold Schedule
Info 07-2012 - Child seating
Info 01-2012 - Custom Suspension Arm Inspection Approval
Info 11-2011 - Release of Electric & Hybrid Vehicle LVV Standard
Info 10-2011 - Exhaust Gas Emission Standard Revision
Info 07-2011 - Objective Noise Testing Information Package
Info 06-2011 - Incorrectly Registered Low Volume Vehicles
Info 04-2011 - Exhaust Noise Information Update
Info 03-2011 - Review of Electronic Deceleration Meters
Info 02-2011 - Introduction of Revised LVV Code & LVV Operating Requirements Schedule
Info 03-2010 - Table-A Vehicle Classes (V2, released August 2010)
Info 02-2010 - Introduction to Revised and New F000 and F007 Forms
Info 01-2010 - Introduction to LVV Operating Requirements Schedule (6th Amendment)
Info 10-2009 - F006 - Certification Plate Pre-ordering Introduction
Info 05-2009 - Class-change Situation for MC Vehicles
Info 04-2008 - Exhaust Noise Emissions - Amendment to LVV Standard 90-20
Info 03-2008 - Exhaust Gas Emissions - Introduction of LVV Standard 90-10
Info 02-2008 - Change to Operating Requirements Schedule
Info 01-2008 - Sub-categories for Scratch-built Low Volume Vehicles
Info 08-2007 - Re-issue of Amended Operating Requirements Schedule
Info 07-2007 - Form-set Use for Scratch-built and Extensively Modified Vehicles
Info 06-2007 - Delegation of LVV Certification Plate Attachment to a Nominated Person
Info 05-2007 - Release of Amended Exhaust Noise Emissions LVV Standard
Info 01-2007 - Release of Low Volume Vehicle Code Issue 5
Info 05-2006 - Exhaust Noise Emissions - Recent Developments
Info 04-2006 - Exhaust Noise Emissions
Info 02-2006 - Track-mounted Seat Attachment Systems
Info 01-2006 - Seatbelt Anchorage Request forms
Info 10-2005 - LVV Certification Operations Roles and Responsibilities
Info 09-2005 - Release of New & Amended LVV Standards and Form-sets
Info 08-2005 - Rear Seat Removal and Changing Vehicle Class to NA
Info 07-2005 - Release of New LVV Standard & Form-set & Operating Requirements
Info 06-2005 - Release of New & Amended LVV Form-sets & Info Sheets
Info 08-2004 - Release of New & Amended LVV Standards and Form-sets
Info 06-2004 - Release of New & Amended LVV Information Sheets
Info 01-2004 - New Forms & Schedules
Info 02-2003 - New Forms & Schedules
Info 01-2003 - New Forms & Schedules
Info 07-2002 - Door Retention Standard & Survey Sheet
Info 06-2002 - Engine & Drive-train Conversions
Info 04-2002 - Reissue of the LVV Code - Issue 3
Info 03-2002 - LVV Frontal & Interior Impact Standards
Info 02-2002 - LVV Seatbelt Anchorage Standard Release
Info 01-2002 - Certification of Unregistered Vehicles
Info 04-2001 - Frontal Impact Occupant Protection
Info 03-2001 - Completion of FS001 & FS002
Info 02-2001 - Fixing of an LVV Certification Plate by Another Certifier
Info 01-2001 - Issue 2 of the LVV Code
Info 12-2000 - LVV Certification of Vehicles with Additional Seating Positions
Info 10-2000 - Brake & Suspension LVV Standard Release
Info 09-2000 - VIN Identifier Discrepancies
Info 08-2000 - Seatbelt Anchorage Clarification -
Superseded - see new version; 02-2002
Info 05-2000 - RHD Conversions
Info 01-2000 - Four Standards Issue
Info 02-1999 - Issue of form-set FS015 - Trikes with Motorcycle Controls
Infosheet Index - Volume 6; TechnicalInfosheet Index - Volume 7; Non-technical
Supplementary Information
Supplementary Information is where a range of miscellaneous documents can be found. These range from older NZHRA 'Tech Bulletins' to LVV Certifier lists, Component Approvals and more.
NOTE: Some of the information provided in the Tech Bulletins is out of date, and may not be in line with the current technical requirements. The latest requirements can be found in the latest version of the NZ Car Construction Manual.
An Index of all Supplementary Information can be found at the end of this section.
NZHRA Tech Bulletin 1 - Electroplating of High Tensile Fasteners
NZHRA Tech Bulletin 2 - Use of Stainless Steel Fasteners
Newsletter #66 - January - December 2025 - Contents: From the CEO | Introducing new LVV Certifiers - Glen Eggleton (Rotorua), Russell Kenny (Mount Maunganui), Luke Ennion (Waiuku), Matt Lauder (Kapiti Coast) | Goodbye and Thank You from Daniel Boyd | New Board Member Simon Howard | LVV Staff Projects | LVVTA team building | Safety Alerts - Unisteer-brand Welded Steering Rack and Pinion | Information Sheets - Changes to Objective Noise Testing (ONT), New Motorcycle ONT Documents, Positioning of Wheelchair, Restraints, and Seats in Vehicles not Subject to PSV Rule | Updated CCM Chapter 19 Vehicle Operation | Release of Motorcycle Construction Manual Chapters | Release of Operating Requirements Schedule Chapters | NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter 19 - Vehicle Operation | Video content - High-sided Race Seats and New high-sided bucket seats video In the Pipeline | Events - Hardpark 2025, Chrome Showcase 2025, Show Your Ability 2025 | NZ Cobra Club Visit | LVVTA Training - LV1C Modified Production – Structures, Disability Transportation | National Conference | Showroom Cars | The Good, the Bad, and the ‘Ooh, That’s a bit Different’.
Newsletter #65 - January 2024 - December 2024 - Contents: From the CEO - 200,000th celebration | From the President | From the Board Chair | 32 Years ago first LVV Certification | Thanks | Safety Alerts - MPW-brand Triumph Daytona Lower Linkage Arm, 1958-1964 Chevrolet Y-bone Rear Track Locator Arm, Superformance-brand Lower Control Arm | Information Sheets - Steering Column Tests | LVV Operating Requirements Schedule - Chapters 3 & 4 | New Zealand Motorcycle Construction Manual | Electric Vehicle Training | National Conference for LVV Certifiers | Police Training | LVV Certifiers needed | SEMA 2024 | Levin Show | Hardpark 2024 | Welcome Daniel Boyd Operations Manager | Welcome Cody Nicholson Technical Advisor | Bon Voyage Chris Smith Technical Advisor | Welcome Harley Barron New LVV Certifier | Cool Mods | The Unusual, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #64 - July - December 2023 - Contents: From the CEO - Hanging up the hat | News - Changing of the guard at LVVTA | The new classis car retro-fit seatbelt structure | Sentencing decision, Brett Robinson | Ian McLachlan's still got it | LVVTA's cyclic test rig testing steering columns | LVV Certifiers needed in Tranaki & Tasman regions | New Information Sheets - #03-2023 LVVTA Classic Car Retro-fit Seatbelt Structure | LVVTA Police Training | New LVVTA Staff member Andrew McGregor | New LVV Certifiers - James McTavish (Tauranga) and Jody Thompson (Christchurch) | The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #63 - November 2022 - July 2023 - Contents: From the CEO | News - NZTA Fees & funding review, NZTA proceeds with prosecusion, Judges confirm that public safety comes first | New Safety Alerts - #01-2023 Copies of ‘Astro Supreme’-brand Wheels, #02-2023 Aftermarket Tubular Suspension Arms with Cantilever-style Ball Joints | New Information Sheets - #01-2023 Copies of ‘Astro Supreme’-brand Wheels, #02-2023 Aftermarket Tubular Suspension Arms with Cantilever-style Ball Joints | Events - National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit, ACC Service Design Workshop, Hardpark Car Show 2023 | LVVTA Welcomes New LVV Certifiers | The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #62 - August - October 2022 - Contents: From the CEO | New look-up system for engraved LVV certification plates | Counterfeit LVV certification plates | Operating Requirements Schedule ORS | Motorcycle Standard & Formset | New Information Sheets - #01-2022 Wheel Adaptor Minimum Specifications, and #02-2022 LVV Certification of Gross Vehicle Mass Upgrades | New Technical Manager wanted | Welcome to new Wellington-based LVV Certifier Joel Hughes | New Team Member for LVVTA ,Shelley McAdam | The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #61 - October 2021 - July 2022 - Contents: From the CEO | Dan Myres moving on but not gone | Flaming River Tilt-column Testing | Funding & Fees Review | Clean Car Standard | Remembering Glenn Johnston | Introducing LVVTA’s Board of Directors, Robert Buchanan, Phil Bradshaw, Graeme Banks, Kerry Buchanan, Philip Crampton, Ken McAdam | Hardpark 2022 | Welding Skills for Modifiers | LVV Certifier On-site Visits | Electric Vehicle (EV) Conversion | New LVVTA Information Sheets; # 08 - 2021 Wheels & Tyres - Updated LVV Standard and NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter, 09 - 2021 Raised Vehicle Stability Calculation, & 10 - 2021 Aftermarket Offset Brake Booster Assemblies | New LVVTA Safety Alerts; 01 - 2022 Unsafe Chinese-made Motorcycles Handlebars, 02 - 2022 Early Ford V8 Steering Arm Failures, # 11-2018 Counterfeit Steering Wheels & Quick-release Boss Kits, 03 - 2019 ‘Superbell’-brand Ductile Cast Iron Spindles, 03 - 2020 MBM-brand Disc Calliper Mounting Brackets, | Reminder about recent Safety Alerts; 09 - 2020 ‘Heidts’-brand Lower Suspension A-arms, 10 - 2020 R32 Nissan Skyline (plus others) Aftermarket Suspension Arm Threads, | The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #60 - July-September 2021 - Contents: From the CEO | LVVTA Support for the Repair Certification System | Motorcycle & Sidecar LVV Standard |Reconditioning the Operating Requirements Schedule | Wheels & Tyres LVV Standard & CCM Chapter Revision | A Word from LVVTA’s New Council President,
Phil Bradshaw | LVVTA Welcomes Dylan Mathieson | LVVTA NZ Police Training | Graham Berry/Kiwi Racecars AC Cobra | ‘Superbell’-brand Ductile Cast Iron Spring Perch Bolts | Magnum Force-brand Aftermarket Dropped Spindles | Unsafe Aftermarket Wheel Nuts | DJM/LCM Truck-brand ‘Dream Beam’ Dropped Axle Failure | SO-CAL-brand Forged 5-inch Dropped I-beam Defects | SO-CAL-brand Heated and Bent 4 to 5-inch Dropped Axles | Motea GmbH Craftride-brand Motorcycle Wheel Failures | TCI-Brand One-piece Ductile Cast Iron Stub Axles | SPC Performance-brand Multi-piece Arm Failures | Johnny Law Motors Helix-brand Cast Iron Axles | The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly.
Newsletter #59 - January-June 2021 - Contents: From the CEO | The un-love triangle | Thank you Steve Keys | Coming clean - proposed new Clean Car Standard legislation | Pillarless retro-fit lap and diagonal seatbelt system | COVID-19 impact on plate numbers | SEMA's fight for race cars | Show your ability in Palmerston North | S.A.F.E Training | New-look LVV Standards and NZ Car Construction Manual Chapter amendments | Electronic Data Plate (EDP) | Car Construction Manual uptake | LVV Cert with more than one set of wheels and tyres | Follow LVVTA on Facebook | VIRM updates | Recently released Infosheets | Recently released Safety Alerts |Marty Boyle; LVVTA's 80's car guy | Nathan McGowan new Paeroa-based LVV Certifier | LVV Certifier Training | LVVTA recognises Fred Fellows (NZ Motor Caravan Association) and Barry Pope (long-standing LVV Certifier) | The good, the bad and the ugly
Newsletter #58 - August-December 2020 - Contents: Pillarless retrofit lap and diagonal seatbelt system | From the CEO | LVV Certification price increase | NZ Car Construction Manual to be free for downloadable version | Electronic Data Plates | New Stainless-Steel brake pipe manufacturer | LVVTA Technical document Next Generation re-configuration | Big Boys Toys free Car Construction Manual winner | Welding C-notches and Extensions in Late-model Vehicle Chassis | Brake Booster Vacuum Hose Requirements | Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) - Welded Steering Components | New Hamilton-based LVV Certifier Tim Charman | Non-compliant Aftermarket Headlights | BVL Seatbelt Recall Update | Safety Alert Reminder; APV Seatbelt Bolt Safety #02-2019 | EPMAN-brand Harnesses | Recently Issues Safety Alerts | Information Sheet Reminders - Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Airbags & Wheelchair Restraints & Docking Station Rating Guide | Recently issues Information Sheets | LVV Staff electric vehicle fleet | Response to Dick Reynolds Tribute | Jim McDonald retires | The good the bad and the ugly
Newsletter #57 - January-July 2020 - Contents: NZTA-LVVTA Contract For Services | Minister Faafoi Visit | Double digits for Dan | Frances is back | New Challenge for Brendon | Farewell to Errol Uttinger | Ministry of Education and Disability Transportation Industry Support | Upcoming Digital Plating System | LVVTA Spindle testing | LVVTA Four Wheel Drive Stability Calculation Process | New LVV Certifier Category Training & Appointments | Watch for Overloading | Triden Wheel Mystery Solved | Modification Threshold Schedule Updates | Progress on LVV Standard Amendments | Chassis C-Notch Analysis Work | Complex Aftermarket Suspension Arms | The not so good, the bad, and the ugly.
Newsletter #56 - June-October 2018 - Contents: Cyclic test rig completed | Staff changes and new faces, Brendon Norling, Chris Smith, Ken McAdam | New safety alerts infosheets | Aftermarket alert BVL / BWD brand seatbelts | Tie-rod droppers | Raising vehicles with aftermarket spacers | Ball joint spacers | Sub-standard suspension arms | Y32 and Y33 Nissan strut warning | Welded aftermarket pitman arm failures (CPP & Toyota) | Unsafe steering modifications | Rack spacers | Mitsuoka Viewt, Facebook updates | Nikki Thomas & Justin Hansen celebrate 10 years at LVVTA | New certifiers Ian McLachlan Christchurch | Matt Tasker Palmerston North | Feedback about Car Construction Manual | Getting LVV information out there | CRC Speedshow | The good the bad and the ugly.
Newsletter #55 - January-May 2018 - Contents: 200 axles tested | BVL/BWD seatbelt failure concerns | multi-piece Hicas lock bar issues | undersized Heidts suspension arms | machined brake callipers | air helper kits | aftermarket steering wheels and boss kits | Heidts rack extensions | quick release steering wheels | Toyota Hilux body lifts | multi-hole wheel adaptors | 326 Power coil over springs | body lift block size | 4WD tyre to rim compatibility | TCI suspension failure | Heidts stub axle issues | MBM brand disc brake adaptor kits | thread count on doubler plates | SRS air bag removal requirements | OEM air bag suspension removal | welcome Daryl Reeve | LVVTA present to Heavy Vehicle Engineers.
Newsletter #54 - July-December 2017 - Contents: LVVTA celebrates 25 years | aftermarket alerts; spindles | TCI-brand IFS failure | Retro-fitted ISOfix child seat anchorages | dark tinted windows in disability vehicles | GVM correction process | bonnet (hood) protrusion rules | lipped rear mud-guards for wide-body kits | retro-fitted third-row seats in station wagons | modified and uncertified vehicles slipping through the cracks | Letters; Dick Reynolds | pat on the back for Don Hoff | thanks to Lance | farewell from Lance Walsh | The good, bad, and ugly | fish-plates | LVVTA people | LVV certification numbers 2016/2017.
Newsletter #53 -Jan-June 2017- Contents: 25th Anniversary for LVVTA | LVV certification plate number 150,000 | welcome to Todd Wylie | Ken stepping up | Richard (Dick) Reynolds passed away | returning cert plates to LVVTA | Correct dates and categories on F001 | recording tyre to rim suitability | keep your driver licence current | 5% tolerance on suspension height recording | revised F005 plate delegation form | TAC meeting invite to LVV Certifiers | push harder with your pens | LVV cert plate processing times | FS039 bump-steer swing-check inspection | sway bar link rods | Anson dropped I-beam axles | foot-brakes on trikes | Supreme - brand wheel reminder | Borgeson welded steering boxes | aftermarket Tri-five Chevy power steering rack kit | aftermarket travel-bar style rack and pinion systems | aftermarket centre-steer rack and pinion systems | aftermarket I-beam axles | butt-welded steering shafts in aftermarket steering racks | new type-approval system for commercial modifiers | NZTA's audit of LVVTA | NZTA's review of LVV Certification System | new trike standard underway | CRC Speedshow | Magoos Street Rods diff brackets | the good and the bad | brake hose on exhaust | universal support welded to intermediate shaft | axle reinforced with an axle | welcoming new certifiers Gareth Court, Colin Prouse, Kane Marsden | LVV Certification numbers for 2015/2016/2017 | purchase NZ Car Construction Manual online.
Newsletter #52 - May - July 2015 - Contents: LVVTA welcomes NZTA review of certification system | aftermarket alert - failed steering wheel | LVV series-production developments | new LVVTA cyclic test rig under construction | steering universal joint angle measurement gauge | LVVTA component testing - integrated seatbelt anchorages in fibreglass body | training - achieving consistency | steering dampers with centering spring | dome-style rubber cushions (bump-stops) | multi-piece brake calliper brackets | lock-washers on adjustable camber plates | aftermarket steering arms | LVVTA training for NZ Police ramping up | May-June '15 LVV Certifier Training | LVVTA training for Police Serious Crash Unit | Raised vehicle workshop postponed | HCTM for sale | disability hand control installation | new model Toyota Hiace seating | roof racks on PSV's | recognised IFS manufacturers | custom bushed rod-ends | NDT testing of brake components fitted to recognised IFS manufacturer IFS assemblies | drive-shaft loop requirements for composite and carbon-fibre drive-shafts | automatic transmission shift position indicator | aluminium wheel nuts follow-up | big wheels on Chrysler 300C's | drive-shaft safety loop attachment | electric power assist steering columns from production vehicles | alternative (plastic) glazing | MOD engines on LVV Certification plates explained | fraudulent LVV Certification plates | disability vehicle brake test relaxation | F005 plate delegation form revamp | removable steering wheels | HCTM formsets - coming unstuck | dumb stuff from the internet | good penetrating oil for rust stuff | welcome to Andy Urwin-Wells | LVVTA exhibits at CRC Speedshow | get back to work Nikki | LVVTA trade site at Feilding 4WD show | LVV Certification numbers for 2015.
Newsletter #51 - January - April 2015 - Contents: New LVVTA Training role established | priority being applied to 'Series Production' modified vehicles | failed steering column support bracket | poor thread machining on components | poor quality wheel adaptors | junk tyres | counterfeit full harness seatbelts part 2 | driveshaft failures part 3 | May 2015 training reminder | checking wheel to tyre relationship | bring your certifier manuals to training | reminder on VIN photos | raised vehicle workshop in August | incorrect NZTA VIN-plates | customer copy of F003 rectification forms | design approval application timing | Auckland region LVV Certifier numbers back up to strength | welcome Paul Urquhart and Scott Tristram | from the internet | Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 2015 | poor c-notch | poor driveshaft modification | LVV Certification numbers for 2015.
Newsletter #50 - August-December 2014 - Contents: Welcome Leon Cast | Tech Support Officer | Suspension Johnny Joints | Head restraints in front of solid structure clarification | Belt-driven RHD conversion no joke | Non-compliant doubler plates | check for drilling of I-beam axles | seatbelts in scratch-built vehicles | Bump-steer swing-check reminder | Disability vehicle brake testing relaxation of requirements | battery requirements in boot or passenger compartments | Scope of door retention exclusion expanded to include vehicles with roofs | VIRM update: seating | handbrakes | air-bag suspension | steering | LVV-certified suspension | Quick-release steering wheels | Hydraulic brake conversions on early Fords | Drive-shafts - what could possibly go wrong | Kit car steering column shafts | Custom suspension arms Info-sheet 01-2012 reminder | CPP brand brake boosters | Counterfeit full harness seatbelts | Watch for aluminium wheel nuts | Seatbelt anchorage permitted area for scratch-builts | LVVTA's Christmas Holiday close-down | LVV Certifier mentoring system trialled | Fender exemption text on certification plates | NZHRA Endorsed LVV Certifiers' or LVVTA Member Association-endorsed LVV Certifiers | NZTA Performance Review fees dropped | Watch out for 'Heavy' scratch-builts | Fraudulent LVV Certification Plates | Current LVV Certifier Information | Vehicle in Question | not make or model | LVV-related advice for AVIs | UDM-modified Skoda Yeti update | It's a tough job | vandalism within LVVTA's office | From the Internet | Mike Owen new LVV Certifier for Auckland Region | Free cert voucher from Speedshow | Recognition for NZHRA's Errol Uttinger | LVV Certification numbers for 2014.
Newsletter #49 - January-July 2014 - Contents: New pre-approval process for series-production modifications | The complexities of right hand drive conversions (RHD) today | The value of non-destructive testing (NDT) | wiper sweep swept area, sweeping aside the issues | steering columns - behind the chromium covers | just because you can, doesn't mean you should | welded multi-piece brake pedals (Escort etc) | always apply the most relevant requirements | don't forget the check-engine light | Landrover front-row centre seating positions | cross-ply tyres only for traditionally styled low-powered cars | change to SRS air-bag removal requirements | replacement LVV certification plate procedure | electronic stability control rules coming in | CPP brand welded steering couplers | one wheel four sizes multi-size marked wheels | where should LVV cert plates be fitted | airbag and hydraulic suspension LVV inspection basics | lowered suspension inspection basics | LVV advice for AVI's | points from April 2014 LVV Certifier training | November 2014 LVV Certifier training schedule | check your photographs | raised vehicle workshop postponed | verifying authenticity of VINs & chassis numbers | proof of entitlement always required | non OEM or NZTA-applied VINs & chassis numbers | changes to NZHRA LVV Authority card system | don't use snail mail | use correct LVV categories | staples | Rob Pauletich moves on | Brent Downes takes sabbatical from NZTA | LVV Certifier receives 6 month suspension | new certifiers appointed for Christchurch and Auckland | always send high-res photos | busted!
Newsletter #48 - October-December 2013 - Contents: Raising the hard questions (4x4 4WD raising) | Sweeping aside the issue (windscreen wiper swept area) | testing of non-compliant seatbelt doubler-plates | welding of castings and forgings | accelerator throttle stops | tyre stretch, bonnet latching hood pins | made in China | faulty threads on aftermarket suspension arms | new scratch-built definitions | inspecting modified vehicles with airbag and hydraulic suspension systems | counterfeit certification plates | Christmas cheer from the LVVTA Team | why Nikki works | LVV Certification plate numbers.
Newsletter #47 - June-September 2013 - Contents: Welding of castings and forgings | aftermarket cast i-beam axle update | aftermarket wheel failure | bump-steer correction (tie-rod adaptor) | aftermarket steering column update | made in China | fake drive-shaft loops | counterfeit reporting web site | Chinese bearings in American stub-axles | LVVTA trike training | LVVTA Police training | 4WD technical workshop postponed | bonnet (engine hood) removal | windscreen wiper swept area | aftermarket Mustang II-based custom IFS 'dog-bone' mounting system | brake hoses don't require standards markings | brake pedal design and construction | Heidts brand suspension arm issue | correct documentation for retrospective LVV certification | don't work in isolation | dealing with previously certified problems | changes to LVV scratch-built definition | update of LVVTA recognised IFS manufacturers | Fair Go school bus | yeah, I didn't think that would be any good | no electric vehicle formsets for now | LVV Certifier's moan for the day | don't forget the wheel alignment report | disability transportation systems form-sets | nah, that's a pre-rectification photo | LVV Certifier category extensions | valid modification (LVV) certification plates | gear-box swaps & LVV Certification | new light vehicle WoF inspection frequency to be introduced from January 2014 | NZ's total fleet numbers | farewell to NZTA's Graeme Swan | LVVTA at CRC Speedshow | all shook up over Wellington earthquakes | new certifier for Nelson region | e-database of LVV people | Frances in overdrive | Julian Cheer injury - don't try this at home just because you can | LVVTA office Christmas holiday closure | thanks Macs equipment | changes in postal delivery time | LVV Certification numbers for 2013.
Operating Requirements Schedule
The LVV Operating Requirements Schedule (ORS) is a document that is intended to act as an operational and procedural specification that sets out how the LVV certification system takes place. The ORS provides the operational and procedural requirements by which the key participants in the LVV certification process carry out their respective roles. The key participants are: the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA), the New Zealand Transport Agency (the Agency), and the Low Volume Vehicle Certifiers (LVV Certifiers).
NOTE: the ORS is currently undergoing redevelopment, and sections will be re-issued in individual chapters as these become available. These chapters are the latest versions of the respective ORS sections, and supersede parts of the existing ORS document.
Operating requirements Schedule NOTE: This version of the ORS is currently out of date as new chapters are being added (below). Refer to this version ONLY where new sections are not available below.
Operating requirements Schedule Chapter 1 - Background to LVV Certification System
The Low Volume Vehicle Code (‘the Code’) sets out the legal framework under which the LVV System operates. The Code is a document that has been developed by the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association Inc, with the approval of the New Zealand Transport Agency. It is an umbrella document that sets out the legal framework under which the low volume vehicle certification system in New Zealand operates for all modified and individually‐constructed (scratch‐built) vehicles.
The LVV Code
LVV Code Index
Documents For Consultation
LVVTA is constantly evolving to align itself with changes and developments in both the vehicle modification industries, and the many vehicle hobby groups. As new documents are developed, we will seek input from the relevant sectors of the modification industry, LVV Certifiers, and from the general public. Click here to be added to our database.
Each document will be available for consultation for a period of time specified. If you wish to provide a submission, please email your submission to submissions@lvvta.org.nz, with reference to the specific document in the subject line.
Current
There are currently no documents for consultation.
Closed
Ordered from most recent (top) to oldest (bottom).
New Zealand Car Construction Manual, Chapter 15, Glazing & Vision
The consultation period for these documents began on 15 September 2021 and ended on Thursday 30 September 2021.
New Zealand Car Construction Manual, Chapter 17, Lighting Equipment
The consultation period for these documents began on 15 September 2021 and ended on Thursday 30 September 2021.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 205-00(03) Wheels & Tyres
New Zealand Car Construction Manual Chapter 12 Wheels & Tyres
The consultation period for these documents began on 1 July 2021 and ended on Friday 23 July 2021.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 40-00(00) Chassis Modification & Construction
New Zealand
Car Construction Manual Chapter 5 Chassis Modification & Construction
The consultation period for these documents began on 13 May 2021 and ended on Friday 28 May 2021.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 105-00(00) Fuel Systems
New Zealand
Car Construction Manual Chapter 10 Fuel Systems
The consultation period for these documents began on 13 May 2021 and ended on Thursday 27 May 2021.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 35-02 (02) (Braking Systems).
The consultation period for this document began on 1 September 2019 and ended on 1 November 2019.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 195-00(02) (Suspension Systems).
The consultation period for this document began on 10 June 2019 and ended on 5 August 2019.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 205-00(0) (Wheels & Tyres).
The consultation period for this document began on 12 March 2019 and ended on 20 May 2019.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 85-4-(02) (Engine & Drive-train Conversions).
The consultation period for this document began on 30 January 2019 and ended on 20 February 2019.
Low Volume Vehicle Information Sheet - New ‘Scratch-built’, ‘Modified production’, and ‘Re-bodied’ definitions.
The consultation period for this document has ended.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 45-60(01) (Disability Transportation Systems) Standard Draft.
The consultation period for this document has ended.
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 75-00(01) (Electric & Hybrid Vehicles).
The consultation period for this document has ended
Low Volume Vehicle Standard 90-20(05) (Exhaust Noise Emissions).
The consultation period for this document has ended
WoF Vehicle inspection requirements manual (VIRM)
The Vehicle inspection requirements manual, or VIRM, specifies the inspection processes and the requirements that vehicles must meet in order to pass a WoF or CoF.
Although predominantly for use by WoF and CoF Inspectors, the VIRM is a simplified version of the NZ Land Transport Rules, and as such there are many legal requirements contained within it that LVV Certifiers and vehicle modifiers can refer to. This link has been provided to enable easy access to this commonly utilised resource.
Land Transport Rules are a form of delegated legislation similar to regulations. The NZ Transport Agency produces Rules under an agreement for Rule development services made with the Secretary for Transport.
There are often instances where the core legal requirements are needed, most often where the VIRM is vague, or lacks detail. In this case, the Land Transport Rules provide the legal descriptions and requirements. As with the VIRM link above, this link has been provided to enable easy access to this commonly utilised resource.
