Structure of the FVPA

Measurement areas

There are a number of typical areas for measurement within the FVPA.

• Margins between interfacing components;
• Weld/rivet condition;
• Paint, glass and chrome surface appearance;
• Exterior ornamentation fit and finish;
• Interior trim fit and finish;
• Functional and operational condition and harmony.

This list provides an indication of the types of elements that are required to be measured. These elements are strongly linked to the four craftsmanship attributes of appearance, functionality, build quality and material.

Elements of the FVPA

From research conducted at a number of prominent vehicle manufacturers, the FVPA follows a set procedure design to check the specific functions of the vehicle.

• Static Audit: Assessment of the fit, finish and static functions of the vehicle model. This includes assessing for paint quality; sheet metal fitment; colour matching; dents and deformations; static forces and tactile quality; ergonomic and build specifications.
• Underbody Check: The Underbody Check is a safety related check where the vehicle is put on an overhead ramp prior to the dynamic audit.
• Dynamic Audit: Consists of a drive test along a test track and a defined route along public roads. These routes are designed to test the vehicle over a range of conditions, such as high speed, traffic and uneven road surfaces.
• Second Underbody Check: Again a safety related inspection to be conducted after the dynamic audit.
• Water Test: Assesses the "water tightness" of the vehicle model and to identify locations of any water ingress into the vehicle.
• Electrical Test: This is the final element of the FVPA Audit where all switches, lights and In Car Entertainment (ICE) is tested for function. Also the Interior and Exterior options are checked against the build card for correct level specification, e.g. Air Conditioning is not fitted for base model specifications.

FVPA Rating System

FVPA assesses many different quality attributes, due to the breadth of possible concerns that can be identified. There are a number of possibilities for how these concerns can be rated.

• No structured scoring system: Concerns are identified but there is no classification of severity or concern category;
• Set numeric score related to the severity of the concern identified: This is where concerns are rated based on the severity of either their deviation away from engineering standards or negative customer perception. Therefore, a minor taper condition between the Instrument Panel and the Door Casing would be rated less than malfunctioning electronics;
• Concerns are categorised into groups and attributed a set score: Concerns identified have a set classification and rating, for example Safety, Potential Warranty and Craftsmanship Concerns.

Generally concerns are given a numeric value and once the FVPA has been completed, the value of concerns are totalled together producing an overall score. This indicates the overall initial product quality level of the vehicle.