Ptarmigan

I have no experience, but I noticed somebody is selling the 30 series hybrid model report for £200 on eBay. A model report is evidence that an example vehicle has been through a type testing procedure (a bit similar to new cars but not sure if it's as detailed) and you can use it to get through the IVA without having to redo all the checks. I think it needs to match though, so eg a different engine size would need a new model report. Not done this myself and no connection will the seller, but the listing number is 352934268787. What I would be interested to know is whether the model report allows you to get access to lower tax bands based on the CO2 figures for the hybrid. I've seen one or two older hybrids advertised as having £20 tax, so perhaps they went through IVA with a model report before they were 10 years old? Or maybe it's a mistake by the seller? (it seems basically impossible to find out tax liability for a vehicle you don't own) After 10 years (early 30 series now) you just need an MOT - I'm not clear if you can voluntarily choose the stricter IVA route if you had a model report. I've not managed to find anyone with a 20 series model report which might potentially be useful for importing hybrids if that was the case.

Hi all, I've just joined the forum. I've been gradually disappearing down an Alphard rabbit-hole for my next car, having started at Estimas and then fallen down the slippery slope. I'm particularly interested in the hybrids - I'm an electrical engineer, already have a Prius and a Yaris Hybrid and have spent too long on PriusChat, so I'm fairly familiar with how the systems work and am interested in how it's been applied to the larger vehicles. Don't have a specific vehicle in mind yet, but leaning towards a 20-series Alphard/Vellfire hybrid, either importing from Japan or looking for a UK one with a poorly hybrid system that I might be able to work on. Open to suggestions, leads, etc in that direction but also other technical chat.