Explorer Group becomes the first touring caravan manufacturer to achieve EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval

Once again, Explorer Group leads the way, becoming the first caravan manufacturer to be awarded EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval on touring caravans.

In this landmark achievement, Explorer Group will be presented with certification via the UK type approval body, the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) on 1st August 2010 for its Buccaneer luxury touring caravan range. Elddis caravans will then undergo the same rigorous testing to achieve this top safety accolade. EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval will not become a compulsory measure until April 2014.

Being at the forefront of product development and safety testing is paramount to Explorer Group and in October 2008 we reported that Elddis was the first UK manufacturer to gain EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval for all Motorhomes, with certification via the UK type approval body, the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

Caravan and Motorhome safety is a crucial factor to consider when buying a new leisure vehicle and there is no higher standard awarded than European Whole Vehicle Type Approval.

A host of stringent regulations and European Directives govern the design and safety of all road vehicles and the systems they contain and this approval covers virtually every component of the vehicle.

In order to gain the approval, a sample vehicle of every type must be inspected and approved by a Type Approval Engineer from the VCA. The VCA then verifies that there are Conformity of Production systems in place to ensure all production models continue to comply with all the necessary legislation. Each vehicle carries a unique Vehicle Identification plate and a Certificate of Conformity.

All Elddis and Buccaneer touring caravans also come with the benefit of Grade III Thermal Insulation, having undergone extensive thermal testing at specialist laboratories Cambridge Refrigeration. This means that all Elddis and Buccaneer touring caravans can be enjoyed all year round, comfortably and in any weather condition.

This latest news on Explorer Group's research and development was announced at the unveiling of the 2011 Elddis and Buccaneer ranges to a record number of industry press associates and to the growing Elddis retailer network on 6th and 7th July.

Rachel Moncrieff, Marketing & Communications Manager at Elddis says: "The 2011 Elddis and Buccaneer touring caravan preview showcased the very latest models to be launched to the public on 1st September. The new models are a culmination of 18,000 man hours - including intensive research, development, product testing and customer feedback. The results have been widely applauded by our Retailer Network and advance orders are at an unprecedented level.

"To be able to add EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval and Grade III Thermal Insulation makes an Elddis or Buccaneer touring caravan an even more compelling choice for any caravan buyer.”

Published: 06/07/2010