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.” As well as the argument that the regular mandated MOT inspection saved money for motorists by enabling them to have issues found sooner rather than later, the IAAF’s submission also observed that alternative fuelled vehicles, including EVs, are more likely to fail their first MOT. Mark added: “Data from DVSA and from the IAAF Garage Network suggests a levelling out of the current MOT trend brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. There is a clear need – and opportunity – to support motorists on the safety benefits of carrying out regular MOT tests. MOT testing stations and testers need to be better supported in communicating to motorists why the MOT test is in place. Much is done on the importance of roadworthiness but more needs to be done to promote the relationship between the motorist and the workshop carrying out the test.” Hayley Pells, Policy Lead at the IMI 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. “The IMI’s response to the original consultation provided clear evidence that extending the date for the first MOT would significantly increase road user risk. In particular, the IMI identified that the risks surrounding electric vehicles – which are heavier than ICE vehicles and cause heavier wear to their tyres – would be heightened if the first MOT date was extended. Evidence drawn from MOT testing records supplied to the IMI by the Department for Transport showed that comparative to petrol engine vehicles, electric vehicles are much more likely to fail their first MOT test.” Evidence The IMI’s Consultation submission was supported by data from Garage Industry Trends. Garage Hive and Lindleys Autocentres Director Alex Lindley analysed 200 million lines of MOT data through which he identified key issues. This included the fact that the first MOT failure rate for EVs on dangerous items was actually higher than for petrol vehicles. Commenting on the outcome of the consultation, Alex said: “It's obviously great news, particularly for the independent sector, that relies on those cars coming through for the first MOT after three years. But most importantly, just based clearly on the evidence, it's the right thing for drivers. I'm really chuffed so well done to everybody that campaigned to make sure the MOT stays the way it is.” He added: “It's a very sensible outcome. I think it would have been quite difficult for the government to decide to go against its own data so it doesn't come as much surprise - but of course you never really know what's going on behind the scenes.” Reform NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson said: “We are pleased that the Government has heeded the points outlined in NFDA’s consultation response and has made the decision to maintain the first MOT test at three years rather than increase it to four, as was proposed. “This announcement is extremely positive for our members and consumers. In the consultation, NFDA largely expressed our concerns for motorists’ safety and stressed the importance of vehicle safety and maintaining the UK’s leading safety record in roads. “NFDA will continue to work closely with the Government as it seeks to establish a programme of longer-term reform for MOTs and looks to explore modernising the test for electric vehicles.” 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.” Confidence Halfords Chief Executive Graham Stapleton said: “The decision to not make changes to the frequency of MOTs is a victory for road safety. The proposed changes would have cost lives. As it is, we are seeing more and more vehicles come into our garages at MOT with tyres that are below the legal minimum tread. Far from rowing back on road safety we should be doing all we can to encourage and enable motorists to keep their vehicles in a roadworthy condition. I look forward to engaging with the Government on the next stage of this process, which is to reform the MOT test so that it better reflects advances in automotive technology.” MAHA UK Managing Director Neil Ebbs said: “Extending the MOT frequency could have increased the number of vehicles in a nonroadworthy condition on our roads; Therefore, we welcome the news that the 3-1-1 will remain unchanged. 10 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2024 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net
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