Strategies is pleased to announce the launch of "SENTA" - a step-by-step web-based programme to guide vehicle manufacturers and body-builders through the complicated European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval system will be launched by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders at the upcoming Commercial Vehicle Operator Show, 13-15 April 2010.

Being phased in from 2009 to 2014, European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) will apply to all vehicle models from passenger cars through to vans, trucks, light and heavy trailers, buses, coaches and special purpose vehicles. Approval allows the vehicle to be registered across all EU member states without the need for further testing in each country but without it, the vehicle cannot be sold.

With up to 50 approval criteria for a brand new vehicle model, SENTA - the SMMT European and National Type Approval guide, will ease the lengthy process, helping companies get their vehicles on the road. The guide details what a manufacturer must do from the original design idea, through the development and construction stages to completion of the approval process.

Links (these will open in a new window)

• senta.smmt.co.uk