WORDS & PICTURES: NATHAN CHADWICK
The British Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has provided clarity to the Historic Vehicle User Group (HVUG) regarding the status of the Jaguar E-type‘s ‘picture frame’ crossmember, and front frame assembly.
Contrary to what was previous thought, this was considered to be a chassis component – and as such, replacement of the front frame assembly, including the picture frame, was considered a modification under the policies that govern rebuilt vehicles. This would mean the car would need a new DVLA vehicle identification number (VIN), and to obtain Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) before it could be re-registered with a Q-series registration number.
However, following conversations with the HVUG, the policy has been clarified. “After careful consideration by all departmental colleagues, the new view is that the front frame assembly, including the picture frame, should not be considered a chassis component,” said Andrew Cude, DVLA head of strategy and policy. “As such, replacement of the front frame assembly, including the picture frame, will no longer be considered to be a modification requiring the allocation of a DVLA VIN and Q registration number. “
However, Cude was keen to point out that the body tub of an E-type still meets the definition of a monocoque bodyshell. “Therefore, any modification of a vehicle’s chassis or monocoque bodyshell from the original manufacturer’s specification, will still require a vehicle to be allocated a DVLA VIN and obtain IVA, before it can be re-registered with a Q-series registration number,” he said. “This includes any modifications to the body tub of an E-type Jaguar.”
This could be the first of a series of clarifications on all sorts of cars, according to David Meek, Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA) chair. “We anticipate that this will be the first of a number to changes to previous assumptions that will be announced by the DVLA as it continues to review its approach to the complexities of the classic and historic vehicle sector,” he said. “While this step was taken a long time, it is encouraging that progress is now being made, and we look forward to continued progress relating to other areas of uncertainty on behalf of our members.”
More details can be found here.
