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New MOT changes proposed to cut costs for drivers

The Department for Transport for Great Britain is consulting on proposals to delay a vehicle’s first MOT by a year in a bid to cut costs for drivers.

This would mean that new cars, motorbikes and vans would be required to have their first MOT four years after they are registered, instead of three.

The Department for Transport claims the move could save motorists across Great Britain around £100 million a year in MOT fees.

Other new measures that could be introduced include testing of pollutants such as particulate number (PN) and NOx to ensure diesel, petrol and hybrid cars always meet emissions requirements throughout their lifespan.

Among the proposals, the consultation will consider whether electric vehicle batteries should be tested to improve the safety and reliability of EVs, if additional measures should be introduced to tackle excessively loud engines, and how the DVSA can continue to crack down against MOT and mileage fraud.

No credible argument
The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has said it will fight any proposals to extend the MOT test frequency.

It said any increase in the first test frequency will see the number of defective vehicles on UK roads rise, which could also lead to more road accidents and fatalities.

“The DfT has put forward no credible argument for changing the MOT first test from three years to four years,” Mark Field, IAAF chief executive said.

“It’s bad for the motorist, the environment, the public and motor industry and we will fight any measures that threaten road safety.”