Everything you need to know about adding or changing seats in your van. Every seating decision affects passenger comfort, and long-term vehicle value. At Auto Transform, we understand that the right fitout can maximise your time on the road, and create a safer, more comfortable and efficient driving experience.
At Auto Transform, safety and compliance come first. All seating installations must meet New Zealand LVV (Low Volume Vehicle) and LT400 standards ensuring your vehicle remains legal, safe, compliant and fit for purpose.
Before exploring your seating options, it’s important to understand the limitations and regulations around modifying a vehicle’s seating layout. This helps you set realistic expectations and gives us the ability to design a solution that genuinely fits your needs without compromise.
General seating installation, Safety and Compliance
Can new seats be added to any van or commercial vehicle?
Yes, but only if they are certified and properly installed.
New seats can be added using LVVTA-approved aftermarket seating systems.
(Test reports to confirm M1/M2 ratings will be required)
Not allowed:
- Installing uncertified seats
- DIY mounting
- Reusing factory seats in new locations
Auto Transform solution:
We install tested, certified high-back bucket seats using approved anchorage systems designed specifically for aftermarket installations.
Can factory seats be moved or remounted in a different part of the van?
No. Factory seats are only certified for their original mounting points. Moving them voids their safety compliance.
Not allowed:
- Relocating OEM/factory seats
- Reusing original mounting points for new purposes
Auto Transform solution:
We supply and install Auto Transform-certified aftermarket seats, independently crash-tested for installation in new seating positions.
My van has bolt holes — can I install seats using them?
Not automatically. Bolt holes may not meet LVV structural or positional requirements.
Auto Transform solution:
We conduct a structural assessment and provide approved anchorage plates, reinforcement, and certified mounting systems.
Vehicle Use, Licensing & Legal requirements
Can I convert a courier or cargo van into a taxi or passenger service vehicle?
Yes — but strict legal requirements must be met.
A courier van cannot legally operate as a taxi or passenger service without:
- Change of Use certification
- LVV-certified seating or LT400 for vehicles over 3500kg GVM.
- Passenger Service Licence (PSL) and meet PSV requirements
- P-endorsement for the driver
- COF and safety equipment requirements
- Failure to comply can result in: Fines up to $10,000, Vehicle impoundment, Insurance invalidation
Not allowed:
- Operating as a passenger service without proper licensing
- Using uncertified seats for paying passengers
Auto Transform solution:
We provide fully certified seating systems suitable for taxi, shuttle, or passenger service conversions and help ensure your vehicle meets structural and safety requirements for COF.
Seating Layouts & Passenger Configurations
Can extra rear seats (2-seat, 3-seat, or multi-row) be added?
Yes — but using certified aftermarket seating and it will depend on overall vehicles GVM.
Not allowed:
- Adding uncertified bench seats
- Installing reused factory seats
Auto Transform solution:
We offer modular bucket-seat systems that can be installed as:
2-seat or 3-seat rows
Crew cab conversions
Multi-row passenger layouts
All installations include seatbelts, anchorages, and LVV/ LT400 certification.
Can seats be added to the boot or cargo area?
Yes — if the area is converted into a compliant passenger zone.
Not allowed:
Installing seats in cargo areas without certification and regulations.
Using the space for passengers without proper restraints
Auto Transform solution:
We create fully certified passenger zones with:
Crash-tested bucket seats
Reinforced anchorage systems
Over-shoulder seatbelts
ISOFIX options (on selected seats)
Compliance
Can large passenger conversions be installed (e.g., 8–10 seats)?
Yes — depending on the vehicle’s structure and space.
Not allowed:
Overloading the van beyond its structural limits
Adding rows without approved exits or spacing
Auto Transform solution:
We perform a full engineering assessment and design multi-row layouts that meet LVV and COF standards.
Child Seating, Comfort & Seat Features
Can seats include ISOFIX child-seat mounts?
Yes — on selected certified seat models.
Not allowed:
DIY ISOFIX installation
Using uncertified mounting points
Auto Transform solution:
We install ISOFIX-approved seats tested to NZ child restraint standards.
Can seat reclining mechanisms be modified?
No. Recliners must remain in their certified configuration.
Not allowed:
Extending recline angles
Modifying folding mechanisms
Auto Transform solution:
We supply seats with factory-certified recline ranges and advise on safe comfort options. This can limit the number of seats in a vehicle due to compliance rules.
Can a seat be installed between the driver and front passenger?
Sometimes — depending on airbag layout and available space.
Not allowed:
Installing seating where airbags could be obstructed
Using uncertified mounting points
Auto Transform solution:
Our team assesses your van and installs centre seating only where safely permitted.
Installation, Certification & Future-Proofing
Do all seating modifications require certification?
Yes. Every seating change requires LVV/ LT400 certification.
Not allowed:
Installing seats without certification
Using uncertified installers
Auto Transform solution:
We provide full installation + LVV/ LT400 certification, ensuring your vehicle is legal and safe.
Can seats be removed or layouts changed later?
Yes — with proper compliance steps.
Not allowed:
Removing certified seats without updating LVV/ LT400 compliance
Auto Transform solution:
We can reconfigure seating, remove seats safely, and maintain certification records.
Why choosing the right fitout provider matters
Seating is one of the most highly regulated areas of vehicle modification. Working with a trusted fitout provider ensures:
- Zero compliance issues
- Reliable long-term safety
- Optimised use of space
- Minimal downtime, so you spend more time on the road
- A professional, streamlined installation backed by industry expertise
At Auto Transform, we combine engineering, safety certification, and customised fitout design to deliver solutions that genuinely enhance the way you travel.
Ready to optimise your vehicle?
Our team can assess your van, discuss your goals, and design a compliant seating configuration tailored to your needs.
