There is no exclusion on the BAP that applies to custom made equipment and there is no definition of equipment on the policy to limit that word’s scope. The personal auto policy does specifically exclude such items on a pickup or van, so since there is no corresponding language in the BAP provisions, the intent of the BAP must be to cover such items.

The computer is covered under the BAP as part of the exception to exclusion 4; that is, a computer that is necessary for the normal operation or monitoring of the covered auto’s operating system. This exception to the exclusion recognizes that today, cars are usually equipped with computers to monitor the operating system, to tell the driver if his seat belt is not fastened, if the oil is low, if the lights are on, or if some item in the car needs to be serviced. This type of electrical equipment is an integral part of the auto, helping it to operate as the piece of machinery it was built to be. As such, a loss to this type of equipment is a loss to the auto itself and cannot in practical terms be excluded from coverage.

As for the GPS unit, that can be covered under endorsement CA 99 60 10 01—audio, visual and data electronic equipment coverage. The endorsement provides coverage for loss to any electronic equipment that receives or transmits data signals and that is not designed solely for the reproduction of sound. Note that the coverage for the GPS unit depends on the unit being permanently installed in the covered auto at the time of loss, and on the fact that the unit is designed to be solely operated by use of the power from the auto’s electrical system.