NRSA Restricts Converted Toyota Voxy Vehicles to Intra-City Use Over Safety Concerns
Road safety authority enforces new restrictions on converted vehicles, citing stability risks and unsuitability for long-distance travel.
- NRSA limits use of converted Toyota Voxy vehicles to intra-city transport instead of imposing a total ban.
- Technical report finds modified vehicles pose significant safety risks due to structural alterations.
- Authorities to collaborate with MTTD, DVLA, and transport operators to enforce compliance.
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has announced that it will restrict the use of converted Toyota Voxy vehicles to intra-city transport, citing safety concerns, rather than imposing a complete ban.
The decision follows the presentation of a final report by a Technical Working Committee in Accra on April 8, 2026. The committee found that many of these vehicles—originally manufactured as right-hand-drive and later converted to left-hand-drive—pose what it described as “an unacceptable risk” to both passengers and other road users.
Chairman of the committee, Godwin Kafui Ayetor, explained that the Toyota Voxy was designed primarily for private family use and not for commercial transportation. He added that structural modifications, including changes to suspension systems and the use of unsuitable tyres, further increase safety risks.
Speaking on Joy Super Morning Show, NRSA Director-General Abraham Amaliba said the Authority is taking a balanced approach to enforcement by allowing limited use of such vehicles within cities. He noted that similar converted vehicles, such as the Toyota Vitz, are commonly used for ride-hailing services in urban areas.
“Our engineers have assessed that these vehicles can operate within city limits, but are not suitable for long-distance travel due to stability concerns,” he stated.
According to the NRSA, the conversion process alters the vehicle’s structural balance, making it less stable and more prone to accidents, particularly on highways.
To ensure compliance, the Authority will collaborate with key stakeholders, including the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and transport operators.
Mr. Amaliba emphasized that transport operators will no longer be permitted to deploy such vehicles for intercity operations, as part of efforts to enhance road safety nationwide.
