The Department for Transport (DfT) recently explored extending the date of the first MOT from three to four years and sought suggestions for possible MOT changes in the future. However, due to the significant concerns raised about road safety and the fact that any savings made by drivers would be outweighed by the potential costs of defects that went unnoticed without the MOT, the government chose to keep the date of the first MOT the same.
During the consultation, the DfT found that people favoured a better diesel emissions test. The DfT will consider the findings of the current trial by the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before deciding how to move forward. They have also realised that there is scope for further improvements to the MOT for electric vehicles. Moreover, they are considering transferring some larger zero-emissions vans to a more standard car-style MOT testing.
As technology advances in modern cars and electric vehicles (EVs), the DfT will collaborate with industry stakeholders and drivers to establish a long-term reform program for MOTs. The DVSA’s Head of Vehicle Policy, Neil Barlow, said,
“Ensuring the MOT remains fit for the future is a key part of DVSA’s work, and getting ready for new technology will help keep Britain’s roads safe. We hope this positive news will provide some certainty for garages to enable the investment in new technologies that could be needed to keep the MOT at the forefront of road safety and the environment.”
DfT will also consider any technological developments that may require a modified MOT test, such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
