A new organisation, representing low volume specialist vehicle manufacturers, says over-bearing regulations could kill off their sector.  The Specialty Vehicle Manufacturers Group of Australia (SVMGA) incorporates constructors, service and repair groups including the Individually Constructed Vehicle (ICV) Manufacturers,

A new organisation, representing low volume specialist vehicle manufacturers, says over-bearing regulations could kill off their sector.

The Specialty Vehicle Manufacturers Group of Australia (SVMGA) incorporates constructors, service and repair groups including the Individually Constructed Vehicle (ICV) Manufacturers, which produce cars such as the Roaring Forties GT40 and Ford Boydster (see attached images). Membership also includes a cross section of Hot Rod and Street Rod enthusiasts and a variety of car and motorcycle clubs.

Chairman of SVMGA, and owner of GV Automotive, George Vidovic, told Australian Automotive, the group, run by VACC, was born out of necessity.

“We want to promote our sector and, together with VACC, we can now lend our voice to the automotive industry. We are a significant group. After all, we contribute approximately $100 million to the Victorian economy,” Mr Vidovic said. 

MoTeC founder, and producer of Daytona Cobra Sports Cars, Richard Bendell, says he joined SVMGA because the industry needs a simplification of legal requirements that can realistically be met by small businesses.

“ICVs do an average of 4,300km per year. One badly maintained truck, in one day, would emit more pollution than all these ICVs in one year. Yet, we are hit with draconian standards that General Motors would have trouble meeting,” Mr Bendell said.  

“Faceless organisations are making decisions that affect all of us. For example, the IM240 emissions test has not got a lot of scientific validity. Yet, the complete test can cost $5,000 per car, per test. If something is not done it will be the end of this industry,” said Mr Bendell.

“VACC welcomes the establishment of SVMGA. This sector deserves support and promotion. It may be a cottage industry but it has bundles of potential. This potential can be realised if Special Vehicle manufacturers receive assistance and a national identity,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said.