All new boats have to comply with the standards for the RCR to be sold in the UK and the RCD to be sold in the EU. The standards are the same for both. They don't apply to used boats, but i think it makes sense to follow them where practical.
I'd expect there are, but don't know for sure. I understand Spirit Yachts have used them in hybrid builds.
They do apply to used boats if you import them in to either the UK or EU.
If the boat is being imported into the UK or EU and was not RCD/RCR compliant when it was built, it would need to be checked for compliance, thereafter any work carried out is not subject to the ISO. But that's not really relevant for the purposes of this thread, no one is talking about importing boats, the discussion is about making changes to existing boats that might affect insurance.
Just pointing It out so if someone reads the thread, they'll not make a mistake about an older boat always being compliant, An old boat so modified would need to pass the RCR/RCD in force at the date of import.
But the insurers - and I think British Marine - seem to be saying that a major change requires updating your RCR / RCD certification - and further that changing battery type is in their opinion just such a material change - see #8 in the Haven Knox Johnston note - Lithium-ion Battery Guidance - Haven Knox Johnston
I really don't have the time or inclination to address some of the crap in that article. Suffice it to say, British Marine is nothing more than a trade body.
