The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has submitted a detailed response to the Department for Transport’s consultation on the future of the MOT, urging the Government to reconsider the frequency of tests for some light commercial vehicles.

The BVRLA supported the Government’s proposal to extend the period for the first MOT for new cars from three to four years, but opposed the same extension for class 7 vans (those weighing 3,000- 3,500kg). The association recommended that the date of the first MOT test for these large vans should be cut to one year after first registration, in order to address any potential safety considerations.

BVRLA chief Eeecutive Gerry Keaney said: “Modern cars are safer than ever, and rental and leasing vehicles are typically checked, serviced and repaired on a regular basis. As such, we believe the proposed extension before the first MOT test is required can be implemented without risk to public safety.

“However, van traffic is growing, and these vehicles’ average annual mileages are significantly higher than the average car on UK roads.

“At a time when the Government’s own data shows large vans have appalling first time pass rates, the BVRLA believes these vehicles should be getting tested every year, not every three or four years.

“Many large vans fail their first MOT because they have not been well maintained and have substandard brakes, so they pose a real risk to road safety.”

The BVRLA also opposed a proposal to add the cost of van enforcement to MOT charges rather than general taxation, like every other form of other case of transport and highway policing. If a levy is introduced, the association said there must be transparency in how any revenue generated is spent.

The BVRLA has met with the Department for Transport to discuss the proposals, and said it will continue to engage with it after the consultation period.