Ford has announced that it has accredited seven converters modifying Transit vans in a new scheme.

The Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) programme is a new scheme from the manufacturer to ensure the quality of converted vehicles on offer.

The first seven QVM converters are:

• Allied Vehicles
• CoTrim Conversions
• CPD Bodies
• GM Coachworks
• McElmeel Mobility Services
• Paneltex
• VFS

All Ford QVM converters have to meet the highest standards in manufacture and quality control, with each area being regularly assessed by Ford. They must also prove that their converted vehicles have followed Ford’s Body and Equipment Mounting Manual (BEMM) and that they follow quality control processes.

Additionally, QVM participants must offer a warranty for the conversion that matches Ford’s own warranty in terms of mileage and duration and have adequate liability insurance.

Ford Transit’s product manager Dave Petts said: “The introduction of more QVM converters will give buyers the peace of mind that the specialist they are buying from is accredited by Ford.

“The Transit range now offers customers an even wider choice of vehicles to meet their individual business needs.”

Ford has stated that: “The UK’s medium conversion market will grow by over 15% in two years, from 42,000 vehicles in 2015 to 46,000 last year and topping 50,000 in 2017.”