The Department for Transport has begun the process of consultation on whole vehicle type approval.  From next year van, truck, minibus, bus, coach, trailer, motor homes and other special-purpose vehicle makers will have to meet new rules under the EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval Directive, which already applies to cars.  This should make it easier to sell a bodied vehicle anywhere in the European Community.  Between 2009 and 2014, vehicles must meet approved standards before they can be registered, used and sold.  Low-volume vehicles sold only in the UK won't have to meet the full EC standards but will need to meet simpler National Small Series or Individual Vehicle Approvals as a condition of registration.  The consultation documents are on the DfT website, the consultation closes 22 August 2008. www.dft.gov.uk