The DVSA is contemplating introducing a new set of MOT rules for electric vehicles after receiving feedback from drivers who want to see new testing measures come into force.
The Government agency recently issued a call for evidence from the public to discuss whether there was a better method for MOT testing.
The results of the consultation found that more drivers want different types of MOT testing for EVs, which have become more common in recent years.
The areas flagged by drivers included adding a test function of “Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems” - which measures the noise an EV makes - or the battery health status of a vehicle.
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Drivers can access their MOT data online PAWhile these issues have been raised by drivers, the DVSA warned that in order to be effective, the agency would need to work with the industry to make sure the proposal is feasible and affordable.
Another potential change mentioned in the call for evidence was the suggestion that when someone purchases a car, it will also come with a photo of the passed MOT test.
A DVSA spokesperson said in a blog post: “Over the last year, we have been trialling different ways of doing just that.
“And I think it’s fair to say that it is easier said than done to find something that will work easily across the 23,400 garages! We want to provide better security, but it’s also important not to slow things down for garages.”
They added that it’s also clear that taking photos isn’t the only answer to improving the security of the MOT but it may be a part of the answer.
The spokesperson explained: “It might be some of other work on ‘plugging’ in to vehicles is also what helps here.
“We have conducted some trials already, and are now working on different ways of doing it – based on all the feedback we have had.
“As the MOT develops, engagement and dialogue with the industry is key. This is an exciting time to be in the motor industry with the huge jumps in how technology is changing motoring – and the MOT will need to develop to remain at the heart of keeping vehicles safe.”
Giving an update on the particulate number trial which looks at measuring emissions from diesel cars, the DVSA found that five per cent of tested vehicles failed.
The trial which ended in August 2023 saw 1,800 vehicles tested on their emissions rate which looked at the density of the smoke emitted from a vehicle.
As part of it, experts removed damaged diesel particulate filters in cars and looked at whether the current method was effective or not.
The MOT test was first introduced in 1960. Cars were previously tested after 10 years. In 1967, this was changed so that the first test was carried out after three years.
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The trial also involved a diesel particulate test
PAThe test provides a basic level of assurance to drivers about the safety of their vehicles. It also provides a check of the emissions from a vehicle.
There are about 23,400 approved testing stations in the UK. In 2021, these stations carried out more than 30 million tests including more than 2.6 million tests on three-year-old cars.
