NRSA Raises Alarm Over Toyota Voxy Conversions
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has issued a fresh public advisory warning about significant safety risks associated with the use of Toyota Voxy vehicles in Ghana, particularly those converted from right-hand drive to left-hand drive.
The directive, dated April 13, 2026, forms part of an ongoing regulatory response that began earlier this year following growing concerns about the increasing use of the vehicle for commercial passenger transport and its involvement in road safety discussions.
Manufacturer Does Not Approve Conversions
According to the Authority, a Technical Working Group established to assess the safety and operational suitability of the Toyota Voxy identified major risks linked to both the structural modifications and the manner in which the vehicles are being used on Ghana’s roads.
In its advisory, the NRSA emphasised that Toyota Voxy vehicles are originally manufactured exclusively as right-hand drive models, and the manufacturer does not approve their conversion to left-hand drive due to safety concerns.
Despite this restriction, the vehicles have become widely used across the country following extensive modifications to adapt them to local driving conditions.
Critical Systems Compromised
The Authority explained that the conversion process involves significant alterations to key vehicle systems, including the steering mechanism, braking system, dashboard configuration, electrical wiring, and suspension.
These changes, the NRSA warned, can compromise the structural integrity and performance of the vehicle—especially in cases where there is no standardisation, certification, or proper engineering oversight guiding the conversion process.
Increased Risk to Road Users
Highlighting the scale of the issue, the NRSA cautioned that many of these conversions are carried out without formal regulatory approval or compliance with safety standards. This lack of oversight significantly increases the likelihood of mechanical failure and unsafe operation.
The Authority stressed that these risks not only affect drivers and passengers but also pose a broader threat to other road users.
Call for Public Awareness
The NRSA is urging the public, transport operators, and stakeholders in the automotive industry to take note of the advisory and prioritise safety when selecting and operating vehicles.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring road safety and indicated that further measures may be introduced to address the growing concerns surrounding converted vehicles in Ghana.
About the Author
