Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

A little while ago I bought a Plus 2 body and chassis and subsequently applied for the V5 which was issued in my name.

The body is in nice overall condition and I planned to use its as the basis of a full resto. - subsequently bought a nice '67 car so the body is now for sale.

The car has original VIN late, the body number is consistent with date of registration (January 1969) and I have obtained full history of owners from the DVLA which show consistent use of the registration and the VIN right back to the first keeper.

Was slightly frustrated last week to receive a letter from the DVLA informing me that I am not entitled to the registration number (VUW ---G) as

'the only components from the original vehicle in your possession are the body shell, sub frame and VIN plate: you therefore do not have enough of the original vehicles major components to qualify for the registration number'.

The letter goes on to say that once completed I can reapply following an inspection by a recognised owners club and will then be eligible for an age related registration.

Although this all seems OK, the consequence may be that the ever diminishing stock of Elans loose the link between the original VIN, body number and registration, which seems sad.

Does anyone have any advice/experience?

BTW - body is for sale so please contact me if you would like Plus 2 No. 1284!!

David

Hi David,
Assuming you are a member of Cub Lotus, I would contact Alan Morgan who will no doubt put you at ease. I also had a nightmare with DVLA about an age related plate, but with enough confirmation and photos confirmed by Alan, you should have no worries.
Regards,
Kev.

It sounds like the DVLA don't want to issue an age related plate until the car is rebuilt essentially to the original standard in terms of major components. I presume they need and engine gear box and suspension to be fitted first to meet their major component requirement.

The appear to not want to issue an age related plate to a car that may then be hot rodded 2 with a V8 fitted I guess

cheers
Rohan

David, I fear that as a body and chassis, nobody will want it as a car, just the components. I've had two such cars in the past, and both sold eventually as just donor bodyshells to owners who had either had an accident, or found their shell in very poor condition once the paint was stripped off.

It is a huge task to try and build a complete car from just a shell and chassis, and the only realistic option is to buy another complete donor....in which case you probably will end up with a shell and a chassis!

I wouldn't fret about it. Just sell as they are, so long as you're sure that the early car you've bought has a good shell of course!

Mark

Sorry David,
I didn't understand your post correctly. I assumed you were taking about your car (0168 I beleive).
Yes I think you've shot your bolt with the DVLA who will no doubt see the car as far from complete, If you had waited until other major components were added, it might have been better, but good luck.
Kev.