A clear view for vehicle inspections

As new technologies come online, MOT testing will adapt to meet new needs, and the government’s recent consultation is only the beginning. So, what’s next? We reveal five solutions and implications of the MOT changes.

Current MOT standards and future proposals

Under the current system, new vehicles require their first MOT after three years, a standard that has come under scrutiny thanks to the evolving nature of automotive technologies.

The consultation put forward several options, including extending this initial test period to four or even five years. However, the IMI advocates maintaining the current three-year requirement until there is conclusive evidence that shows that EVs do not present more significant risks or failure rates compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. There’s a need for ongoing education about these new technologies to mitigate any potential increase in failure rates attributed to misunderstandings.

Impact on road safety

Adjusting the frequency of MOT tests carries significant implications for road safety, business operations in the automotive service industry and environmental impact. The IMI’s research, conducted in partnership with Garage Industry Trends, highlights that EVs tend to fail MOTs at a rate higher than petrol but lower than diesel vehicles, primarily due to tyre and brake issues related to EVs. This data underscores the potential safety risks associated with prolonging the period before a vehicle’s first MOT, as less frequent inspections could lead to a higher incidence of vehicles operating with critical defects.

Business and training

Changes to MOT testing frequency would impact the automotive service industry. A reduction in the number of MOTs could lead to significant income loss for garages, which would hinder their ability to invest in new technologies and training. This is particularly pertinent as vehicles become more complex, requiring more specialised skills for inspection and maintenance. The IMI stresses the importance of supporting businesses through incentives such as tax allowances for training and equipment upgrades, especially for those servicing alternative fuel vehicles.

The role of CPD

The consultation and workshops identified a crucial need for continuous professional development (CPD) to keep pace with technological advancements. The IMI advocates for an updated curriculum that includes new technologies such as EVs and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Training in these areas will ensure that MOT testers are well-equipped to handle the intricacies of modern vehicles, thereby maintaining high standards of vehicle safety and compliance.

Long-term planning

We need to understand how new technologies, especially autonomous vehicles, could and should be tested to ensure road safety and compliance with evolving legal standards.

The IMI’s response to the DfT’s consultation is the beginning of a wider discussion on the MOT test. 

Hayley Pells is Policy and Public Affairs Lead at the IMI

This is an edited extract from IMI's new MotorPro magazine, received free as part of IMI membership.