FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

About VMEP

Who are VMEP?

VMEP (Vision Motorsport Engineering Products) is a UK-based motorsport equipment business founded by Alex Champkin (BSc Motorsport Technology, MSc Mechanical Engineering, active club-level racer). We combine two capabilities under one roof:

  • In-house flight-case manufacturing - bespoke aluminium and hexaboard cases, pit perches, hospitality units, and paddock solutions built in our UK workshop
  • Motorsport parts distribution - authorised UK reseller for ARE, Cartek, Fuel Safe, Hunsaker Refuelling, Tilton, VP Racing Fuels, EvoCorse, and others

We serve race teams, workshops, professional pit crews, and enthusiasts across the UK and internationally.

Where are you based?

Unit 20 Bidavon Industrial Estate, United Kingdom, B50 4JN. Visits by appointment only - we’re a working workshop, not a retail showroom.

Can I visit the workshop?

Yes, by prior arrangement. Email or call ahead. Seeing a case being built or discussing a custom project face-to-face is sometimes the fastest way to get exactly what you need.

Orders and Payment

How do I place an order?

Most products on the site can be ordered directly through the checkout. For bespoke flight cases, custom paddock solutions, or large multi-item orders, use the Request a Quote option or email us directly - we’ll scope, price, and confirm lead time before anything is produced.

What payment methods do you accept?

Shopify Payments, PayPal, Klarna (for eligible orders), Apple Pay, Google Pay, American Express, Visa, Mastercard. For trade customers on invoice terms, contact accounts@vmep-ltd.co.uk.

Can I get a VAT invoice?

Every order generates a VAT invoice automatically. VMEP Ltd is UK VAT-registered. VAT number is shown on all invoices.

Do you offer trade pricing?

Not as a published tier on the site today. For regular trade buyers - prep shops, workshops, teams placing orders at volume - contact us directly and we’ll discuss terms.

Bespoke / Custom Work

How long does a custom flight case take?

Typical lead time is 3–6 weeks from the point we receive your signed-off specification. Complex multi-item paddock builds (pit perches with TV screens, integrated power, multi-case kit) may be longer and are quoted individually.

What’s the process for a custom build?

  1. Enquiry - email or WhatsApp us with your requirements (what it’s for, dimensions, special needs). Photos and rough sketches help.
  2. Scoping - we’ll suggest a spec, materials, and approximate price. Sometimes we’ll suggest alternatives if there’s a better way.
  3. Quote - firm price, firm lead time, in writing.
  4. Deposit - typically 50% on order for bespoke work, balance on completion (for UK customers). Terms can vary for international and trade.
  5. Build - you’ll get progress updates for longer projects.
  6. Delivery - pallet shipping for oversized items, tracked courier for smaller cases.

Can you match my team’s livery?

Yes. Custom colours, printed/engraved logos, embroidered protective covers, and livery-matched finishes are part of what we do. Send us a brand guideline PDF or sample.

Motorsport Regulations

Are your products FIA / Motorsport UK compliant?

Where applicable, yes. Specifically:

  • Fuel Safe cells we supply are FIA-FT3, FT3.5, and FT5 certified (check the specific product page for the certification level)
  • Cartek electronics meet relevant FIA electrical safety standards
  • Seat harnesses and safety equipment (where distributed) carry the appropriate FIA 8853 / 8854 markings

Product pages state the specific certification level. If you’re buying to meet a specific championship’s technical regulations, always verify the requirement in the latest “Blue Book” (Motorsport UK Yearbook) before ordering.

I’m running in a specific championship - can you advise on the right parts?

We can often point you in the right direction, but we can’t confirm regulatory compliance for specific championships - that’s between you and your scrutineer. Contact the championship coordinator or your team manager for authoritative interpretation.

Shipping, Returns, Warranty

How fast do you ship?

Most UK stock orders placed by 2pm Mon–Fri ship same day for next-working-day delivery. See Shipping Policy.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, worldwide. Because shipping cost varies by destination, we quote per order. Add items to your cart, choose “International - contact for quote” at checkout, and we respond within 1 working day.

What’s your returns policy?

30 days for unused stock items in original packaging. Bespoke items are non-returnable unless faulty. Full details: Returns Policy.

What warranty do I get?

12 months on VMEP-manufactured items. Distribution brands follow each manufacturer’s warranty (up to 5 years for FIA-certified fuel cells). See Warranty Policy.

Technical and Product

Which ARE dry sump kit do I need?

Depends on your engine, power target, and series regulations. Email us with the engine, application, and any regulatory constraints - we’ll specify the right kit. If you’re unsure, a phone call is usually faster than back-and-forth emails.

What’s the difference between FT3, FT3.5, and FT5 fuel cells?

FT3 is the baseline FIA bladder standard. FT3.5 adds heat-resistant lining. FT5 is the highest protection rating, typically required for top-tier categories. Check your series regulations for which you need.

Can you source a product that’s not on your website?

Often yes - we have trade relationships with several motorsport brands beyond what’s listed. Email with the specific part and we’ll come back with price, lead time, and availability.

Contact

  • General: info@vmep-ltd.co.uk
  • Technical questions: info@vmep-ltd.co.uk (ask for Alex)
  • Accounts / invoices: accounts@vmep-ltd.co.uk
  • Phone: +44 (0)1789 453967
  • WhatsApp: +44 (0)7728 769488