Logistics UK wants MOT first test to remain at three years

Logistics UK is urging the Government to maintain the first MOT test at three years after registration and every year thereafter.

Implementing a one-year increase would not be applicable for high mileage vehicles and would be a detrimental move for vans as they are classified within the same road regulations as cars. 

Government proposals, published in January, include changing the frequency of the vehicle safety test and improving the monitoring of emissions to tackle pollution.

Ministers claim the changes are necessary because today’s vehicles are built better and are more resilient to wear and tear, particularly with electric vehicles (EVs) having fewer moving parts.

The Government says pushing the requirement for the first MOT back from three years to four would also save money.  

Logistics UK says it supports the proposal to improve the emissions test as the current method does not check for particulates, which are now identified as a concern to health.

The business group asks that this be introduced with a responsible period of notice and recommends a timeframe of 12-18 months to give Logistics UK members enough time to prepare. 

The movement of 4.25 tonne alternatively fuelled vans back into the car/van MOT scheme is also supported by Logistics UK, due to the vehicle type remaining the same and the change of category (N1 to N2) only being brought forward in response to the accommodation of the heavier weight of the batteries. 

Furthermore, it said it is in favour of the additional training of MOT testers and changes to the annual test to fully account for electric and hybrid vehicles, as they are already on the highways and included within road strategies. 

Phil Lloyd, head of engineering policy at Logistics UK, said: “As we continue to see more major developments in vehicle technology, it is vital that road policy advances alongside to keep our members compliant and safe.

“Logistics UK agrees that sections of the current MOT system need to be reviewed and amended to reflect industry’s progression and hopes to see our asks implemented into a new system.” 

The Government consultation on proposed changes to the MOT testing regime closed yesterday (Wednesday, March 22).