One of the first things to consider when customising your van fitout is settling on a seating configuration that suits your needs. Whether you’re moving workers, tourists or VIP’s the right layout makes a difference in comfort, capacity, and value.
Your layout configuration will depend entirely on your specific needs. When asking the question how many seats can I legally and comfortably fit in my van? The answer depends on several factors—including vehicle size, compliance regulations, and how much space you want to dedicate to comfort, luggage, or accessibility.
At Auto Transform, we help you find the perfect balance between capacity, compliance, and passenger experience.
What Affects Your Seating Capacity?
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Compliance Requirements
Every layout must meet NZTA and COF standards, including legroom, seat spacing, and access/egress regulations. -
Luggage Needs
Do your passengers carry gear, suitcases, or equipment? You may need to sacrifice a row of seating to make space for a rear luggage area or overhead storage. -
Passenger Type
Transporting tourists, VIPs, or older passengers? You may want to choose fewer seats with more space per person, upgraded finishes, or recline features for the optimal experience -
Vehicle Model & Wheelbase
Different brands and models vary slightly in usable interior dimensions. Long wheelbase (LWB or ELWB) vehicles offer the most layout flexibility.
Small and Medium Vans | 4–11 Seats
From safe and durable worker transport to luxury hotel transfers, the passenger experience is everything. At Auto Transform, we customise your van to fit your needs using tried, tested and certified seating systems and layouts. Our flexible floor systems and interior options help optimise space and functionality—adding real value to your vehicle.
Cheeky Kiwi have two fitout configurations including:
2 + 3 + 3 +4 seating configuration | Extended luggage space | Carpet lining
2 + 3 + 3 +3 seating configuration (with extra wide VIP seats in the back row) | Extended luggage space | Carpet lining
Their chosen seating configuration is custom fit for their luxury adventure tours. With 23 vans in operation, comfort, reliability, and longevity are essential to their business. While visiting the top destinations it’s important for them to provide a premium experience while maximising space.
Small Van Solutions
Typical Vehicle Models:
- Toyota Hiace – ZX/ZR
- Hyundai Staria Load
- VW Transporter
- Mercedes Sprinter (SWB)
- Ford Transit Custom
- Ford Transit Cargo
Small vans are popular for:
- Worker transport
- School and education use
- Taxis and shuttles
- Rental vehicles
Seat Types Ideal for Small Vans:
- Suburban 4500 – Maximises visibility in tight spaces
- Tourist 4520 – Combines comfort and durability
- Elite 4800 – Leather-clad ergonomic comfort
Interior Options: SmartBoard, Vinyl, or Carpet flooring; lighting, USB ports, and ventilation can also be added.
Primary ITO needed a durable passenger fitout for transporting their students. The Toyota Hiace was the smart choice for vehicle but the factory spec did not offer a 12 seater option, that’s where our smart solutions come in.
Our fitout solution allowed for 11 passengers (plus driver) seating configuration| Rear luggage space| Smartboard floor lining, roof vent, Tourist 4520, Entry handle.
Medium Van Solutions
Typical Vehicle Models:
- Toyota Hiace ZX
- VW Crafter MWB/LWB
- Mercedes Sprinter MWB/LWB
- Iveco Daily 12m3
Medium vans offer more room for passenger comfort and visual appeal—great for:
- Tour operators and boutique hotels
- Retirement villages and aged care
- Corporate or VIP shuttles
Seating Capacity: 8–11 seats depending on legroom, luggage, and interior needs.
Seat Types for Medium Vans:
- Tourist 4520 – Versatile, reliable
- Elite 4800 – Premium ergonomic leather
- VIP Wide 5020 – Extra width and plush finish
Interior Options: SmartBoard, Vinyl, Carpet + optional PA systems, luggage racks, interior lighting
Larger Builds | 11–21 Seats
Large vans provide the space, durability, and versatility you need for high-demand operations. Take on larger groups, longer journeys, and higher returns with professional-grade fitouts for larger vans.
“Partnering with Auto Transform for our 10 and 15-seat vehicle fit-outs has been a game-changer for our operation. From the outset, the team took the time to genuinely understand our business needs and the unique demands of the rental and transport industry. They knew that our vehicles needed to be delivered not only to spec but on time—every time—and they delivered exactly that.”
– The Team at Cross Country Rentals
Large Van Solutions
Vehicles like the Mercedes Sprinter LWB/ELWB and Iveco Daily 16m3 can support 11–21 seats. These builds often support:
- Shuttle transport
- Group tourism
- Larger community mobility
We use certified seat types and modular layouts to deliver comfort, style, and performance.
Seat types for Larger Vans
All our seating configurations fit in nicely into a larger van- more accommodating in size
The Right Fitout for Your Business
Every business has unique needs. Whether it’s legroom, luggage space, accessibility, or visual appeal—we create a custom solution to suit your passengers.
From consultation to compliance, Auto Transform works with you to deliver:
- Smart seat placement and modular layouts
- Durable, attractive interiors that stand up to use
- Optional luxury upgrades for VIP service
Auto Transform have been specialists in automotive transformations for over 35 years. Explore our website to see some of the fantastic passenger vehicle fitouts we have completed and to hear from our loyal customers. Download our Passenger Vehicle Brochure here. Or feel free to contact us for more personalised advice on your luxury tour vehicle requirements.
Book a Free Fitout Discovery Session
Let’s take the guesswork out of your build. Talk to our team and we’ll help you map out a certified seating layout that meets your operational goals, your passengers’ expectations, and your compliance obligations.
