A partition 25 comprises a central panel 30 and wings 32, and is suitable for completely separating a passenger compartment 21 from a load carrying compartment 5 in an estate car 1, people carrier or van. The installation method comprises removing the rear seat 17 and securing the partition 25 transversely with the wings 32 extending rearwardly from the panel 30 to close the gaps between the panel 30 and the rearmost pair of opposing door jambs 13. Thus the load carrying space 5 is increased. The partition 25 may comprise a pair of box-section cross-members (38, 39) and side struts (40) fixed to a sheet metal panel 30 preferably provided with an opening or transparent window (45), framed by further struts and cross-members. The rear seat 17 is preferably replaced with a smaller seat 29 which may be fitted to the front of the partition 25. The vehicle 1 comprises a hatchback or vertically hinged rear door 15 providing access to the load carrying platform 27.