There are different types of vehicles, adapted to both the personal and professional needs of each user. Mostly falling into the latter category is the mixed-use vehicle, popularly seen as the "big brother" of the conventional passenger car.
However, the mixed-use vehicle gets this name because it can actually be used both privately and professionally, giving it unique features, and even requiring us to assume changes in traffic regulations associated with these models.
WHAT IS AN ADAPTABLE MIXED-USE VEHICLE?
A mixed-use vehicle or adaptable mixed-use vehicle is one that allows the transport of both passengers (up to a maximum of 9 including the driver) and cargo.
Therefore, it is a professional-use vehicle, capable of transporting all kinds of products, tools, and machinery to carry out work or provide a service.
But at the same time, it offers the possibility of transporting passengers, such as employees of the same company, for travel to the workplace or to the company’s facilities.
Moreover, an adaptable mixed-use vehicle is not exclusively for professional use. It can also be used personally by the owner.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MIXED-USE VEHICLE AND A LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE
Among the types of vehicles intended for professional use, there are many different options. These include the mixed-use vehicle and the light commercial vehicle.
A light commercial vehicle is one that is manufactured with a front row of seats, where the driver and up to two passengers can ride. The rear area is used for cargo. Also, it is exclusively for professional use.
A mixed-use vehicle can have up to 9 seats distributed throughout the cabin. These are usually modular to change orientation, fold down, or even remove to make space for cargo. Additionally, as we’ve mentioned, it can also be used personally.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MIXED-USE VEHICLE AND A CONVENTIONAL PASSENGER CAR
It might seem that a mixed-use vehicle is the same as a conventional car with a higher capacity for passengers. But there are more differences:
An adaptable mixed-use vehicle must be at least 1.80 meters tall.
The owner must be self-employed or a company, meaning that the vehicle is used at least 50% of the time for professional activities.
TRAFFIC REGULATIONS FOR MIXED-USE VEHICLES
The use of mixed-use vehicles is even subject to specific traffic regulations. It's not that they have different driving or road sign rules, but they do have certain limitations:
The maximum speed on highways or expressways is 100 km/h.
If the road has a 1.5-meter shoulder, its speed must not exceed 90 km/h.
On conventional roads, the speed limit is 80 km/h.
If it is transporting hazardous goods or is used for child or school transport, the maximum speed must always be 10 km/h lower than the standard limit.
VEHICLE INSPECTION FOR ADAPTABLE MIXED-USE VEHICLES
Another major difference between mixed-use and conventional vehicles is the frequency of Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV), which comes up much sooner.
They begin after two years and are required every two years until the vehicle is six years old. After that, inspections must be done annually until it reaches ten years of age. From then on, inspections are required every six months.
ADVANTAGES OF BUYING A MIXED-USE VEHICLE
Buying a van is the best way to enjoy a mixed-use vehicle, adaptable to both your professional and personal needs, with some very interesting additional benefits. Here are the main ones:
You can deduct between 50% and 100% of the VAT on the purchase and use of the vehicle, depending on your business activity.
Depending on the model, you may be exempt from the registration tax.
After four years, it’s possible to officially reclassify it as a passenger car, provided you meet the necessary conditions.
These vehicles are highly modular, allowing you to adapt them for almost any driving need, whether it’s for transporting goods or carrying a large number of people.
HOW TO CONVERT YOUR MIXED-USE VEHICLE INTO A CONVENTIONAL CAR
After four years of use, you have the option to officially reclassify your mixed-use vehicle as a conventional passenger car. To do this, you must meet the following conditions:
Request the classification change at the ITV.
Request a certificate from the manufacturer stating that it can be classified as a passenger car.
Pass the ITV and apply for new documentation according to the new classification.
If you didn’t pay the registration tax at the time of purchase, it will be required during this process.
Submit all the new documentation to the Traffic Department to make the classification change official.
Given the features of these vehicles, especially regarding their size, many drivers choose to convert them into camper vans, making them a very practical option for traveling and camping with all the essentials.
IS A MIXED-USE VEHICLE RIGHT FOR ME?
The mixed-use vehicle offers many benefits for certain drivers. In general, it is recommended in the following cases:
If you’re self-employed or own a business and need to transport materials.
If you’re self-employed or run a company and need to move several employees at once.
If you need a vehicle for work, but you also have a large family and want a car that suits both personal and professional needs.