Changes to the MOT system - RAC Foundation consultation response - 220323

Cost to the Motorist On the issue of the MoT fee, we recognise both the general inflationary pressures on household budgets affecting those paying for the MoT and the specific challenges for MoT testing centres in terms of staffing, equipment and materials in conducting the test. [...] We would observe that for vehicle owners the cost of the MoT should be viewed in the context of the overall cost of running a vehicle in a properly roadworthy condition. [...] In your view, should light goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes be required: • annually (from the time the vehicle is 3 years old) that is, no change✓ • every 2 years from the time the vehicle is 3 years old • every 2 years from the time the vehicle is 3 years old up to 10 years and annually thereafter • other (please specify) 8. [...] There is a bigger question here about the capability of the auto sector to recruit and train technicians with the skills, knowledge and access to the technical equipment needed to enable them to check and work on electric vehicles and the very complex the levels of computer code behind their operation. [...] Do any elements of the testing of self-driving features need to be addressed through a different mechanism? Response to questions 47 to 56 – We welcome the fact that the DfT is opening up the question of how the MoT system might need to develop to reflect and accommodate changes to vehicle technology which include, and go beyond, those mentioned above.