The Government has finally confirmed that MOTs will continue to be undertaken on the existing 3-1-1 pattern, following the publication of its response to the consultation today.
The consultation, which ran from January 2023 to March 2023, sought views to ensure roadworthiness checks continue to balance the cost to motorists, road safety, advances in vehicle technology and tackling vehicle emissions. To ensure MOTs are fit for the future, the government has said it will further investigate how to better monitor diesel vehicle emissions through the DVSA. This is said to include whether testing should do more to ensure that diesel vehicles comply with emissions regulations.
Industry views
This is being viewed has a huge victory for the automotive industry and motorists alike. For example, Hayley Pells, policy lead at the IMI has said: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to maintaining the first MOT at three years and annual testing thereafter. This aligns with our findings on the importance of regular checks for road safety and vehicle maintenance. The decision to further explore modernising tests for electric and automated vehicles is a positive step towards addressing the unique challenges and advancements in vehicle technology. We also appreciate the focus on diesel emissions, which is crucial for environmental concerns. The conclusion of the consultation also underscores the need for ongoing adaptations in MOT testing to keep pace with rapidly evolving vehicle technologies and environmental considerations.”
Furthermore, SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes noted: “Government and the automotive industry have worked together to ensure the UK has some of the world’s safest roads. The decision to retain the existing MOT system is the right one, helping maintain this proud record and giving drivers confidence in car and van roadworthiness. With vehicle technology continuing to evolve at pace in terms of both safety and environmental performance, we will maintain this collaboration with government and other stakeholders so that the MOT continues to be fit for purpose, helping Britain improve what is already a strong road safety record.”
Also, Mark Field, IAAF chief executive, said: “Plans to extend the first test from three to four years have been met with the full power of the entire automotive industry including motorists, who have been united in their view that extending the test frequency risks driver safety. Every argument put forward to change the date of the first test has been overcome. An extended test won’t save motorists money and will in fact generate higher bills from worsening, unchecked problems. While it is right to consult on modernising the test process, the debate over the test frequency, the third in over a decade, should never be on the table.”
