IMI steps up to answer government ‘Call for Evidence’ to support its review of heavy vehicle testing

Professional body appeals to the HGV sector to provide input for response to the consultation to shape the future of a safe and efficient testing process in the UK

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has committed to representing the interests of its members in its response to the Department for Transport’s call for evidence as part of a Heavy Vehicle Testing Review. The professional body aims to share its views and experiences on the roadworthiness testing process for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and public services vehicles (PSVs) in the UK. Urging the HGV sector to provide input for its response, the IMI says the consultation offers a critical opportunity to influence how the burden of testing on the industry can be reduced, while maintaining important levels of safety.

The Heavy Vehicle Testing Review aims to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and user-friendliness of the testing process while ensuring that it maintains the highest standards of safety and environmental protection. The review has identified several key areas for improvement, including updating the testing standards, streamlining the testing process, improving the quality and consistency of testing, enhancing the use of digital technologies, and strengthening the enforcement of testing standards.

Stakeholders across the sector, including vehicle operators, manufacturers, and testing providers, as well as road safety experts, industry bodies and other interested parties, are being called upon to share their expertise. The call for evidence will run until 11.45pm on 9^th June 2023, after which the government will publish its findings and set out any proposed changes to the testing regime.

Hayley Pells, IMI Policy Manager and the IMI’s representative on the Heavy Vehicle Testing Review said: “It is essential that our members and the wider HGV community take this opportunity to make their voices heard and contribute to the review's recommendations.

“IMI members have a wealth of technical knowledge and experience in the field of roadworthiness assurance. This makes them uniquely positioned to provide valuable insights and feedback on the review's recommendations. Even if members do not feel comfortable commenting on specific technical standards, their feedback on the practical aspects of the testing process can still be valuable and help shape the review's recommendations.

“It is critical that the final recommendations reflect the needs and priorities of the industry as a whole and that the testing process is efficient, effective, and user-friendly. By participating in the open consultation process, our members can help shape the future of the HGV and PSV testing process in the UK.”

To get involved in the Heavy vehicle testing review: call for evidence - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk), IMI members and HGV stakeholders can contact Hayley Pells, IMI Policy Manager at hayleyp@theimi.org.uk. She is available to provide guidance and support on how to submit a response, as well as answer any queries.