The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has responded to the government’s public consultation, launched to seek views on making MOTs “fit for the future” in light of “advances to vehicle technology and growing popularity of hybrids and EVs”.
Proposals include changing the date of the first MOT for new vehicles and improving the monitoring of emissions. The Department for Transport said that “safety will be at the heart of the consultation to ensure continued confidence on country’s roads”
IMI Policy Manager, Hayley Pells, said: “The advances seen in automotive technology and systems, for improved performance and safety as well as reduced environmental impact, mean the current MOT model is well overdue for review and the IMI welcomes the announcement of this Public Consultation today. Although never a substitute for the recommended maintenance and repairs that motorists are responsible for to maintain roadworthiness, the current MOT test could be improved and new methods explored that better fit the current car parc, and the automotive technology of the future.
“For example, autonomous emergency braking is now more widely adopted, and it is critical that motorists have the confidence that these systems are working correctly.
“The question of MOT testing frequency is also part of the consultation; an important issue that has dominated conversation about testing for some time. What is important to ensure is that a focus on cost-saving does not put road users at heightened risk.
“The IMI will be actively engaging with its members who represent the highest standards of skills and presenting these findings along with considered opinion of the impact of change within the sector.”
