What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Is my Mercedes Vito with windows classified as a van or a car?

I have just bought a Mercedes Vito with windows in the sliding doors behind the driving seat and a row of seats. For speed limits, is it classed as a van or a car, and when towing is it commercial, needing a tachograph?

Asked on 13 April 2023 by Mick Moor

Answered by David Ross
Typically the regulations for this kind of vehicle are not straightforward. You can read the full legislation on the government's website here www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1986/1078/regulation/3...e, but the short version is that your Vito is likely classified as a dual purpose vehicle, in that it can carry both passengers and goods, assuming it weighs less than 2040kg unladen.

Dual purpose vehicles are classified the same as car-derived vans in terms of speed limits, which means 60mph on single carriageways and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways, but we have seen several stories of owners driving similar vehicles and getting speeding fines, which then have to be appealed. We would err on the side of caution until you are certain this is the class your Vito falls into.

You only need a tachograph when towing if the gross train weight of your vehicle is over 3500kg, and you can find this information on the weight plate which should be on the B-pillar.
Similar questions
I drive a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter pick-up for work delivering fence panels. I have passed my B+E licence. My transport manager now seems to think a tachograph isn’t needed whilst pulling our six wheel trailer,...
Are there any differences between a private light goods and a light goods vehicle? If a 1997 Escort van is a PLG does it mean it's a commercial vehicle?
What is the speed limit for a Mk7 Ford Transit?
Related models
Excellent quality and great to drive, car-like refinement and quiet engines, crew cab and minibus variants, good standard equipment levels.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer