MOT test changes spark fears and major crackdown

MOT changes could see driving tech regulated as safety fears spark a major crackdown.

The Department for Transport within the UK Government will be investigating whether the safety tech - advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) systems - will leave drivers at risk.

The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety has urged the government to include mandatory checks on these sophisticated vehicle features during MOT tests. They argued: "If any of these mandatory safety-critical features are found to be malfunctioning that cannot be fixed on-site during MOT, then the vehicle should fail the MOT."

READ MORE: How long can Vaughan Gething last?

READ MORE: Welsh school investigated for 'promoting evangelical Christianity'

Additionally, they advised that "In case of the malfunctioning of the voluntarily installed system, the driver/owner should be given a warning to get it fixed as soon as possible."

A trial scheme is anticipated in order to accumulate relevant data which can provide insight into possible risks and failure rates associated with these systems.

This pilot project will implement checks on key vehicular features such as autonomous emergency braking, steering assistance, and cross-traffic alerts. Last week, Peter Lawton, an expert in aftermarket affairs at the SMMT, shared new revelations regarding MOT testing during his address at the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event, reports Birmingham Live.

He stated at the aforementioned event: "The idea that electric vehicles are simpler so you don't need to have them checked as often, we were able to say that is not the case."

Meanwhile, the Department for Transport brought attention to the lack of standardisation in the current terminology and usage of ADAS systems.

Vehicles could be at risk of failing their MOT if "significant safety systems, like automatic emergency braking, are shown to be malfunctioning", according to a recent statement. It further explained: "We are particularly keen to work with industry and manufacturers on this so that the review can ensure that these technologies are properly maintained and tested."

With growing scrutiny on how Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are regulated internationally, "it is reasonable to expect that in future there will be further regulation in the UK", the Department for Transport (DfT) has indicated. ADAS encompasses a range of features such as cruise control, anti-lock braking, blind-spot monitors, collision avoidance systems, traction and stability control, along with parking and proximity sensors, tyre pressure monitors, and rain sensors that activate window wipers.