MOT test could change to include ADAS checks

The Department for Transport (DfT) is exploring how to include checks on cars' ADAS safety systems in future annual MOT tests to ensure the technology will not leave drivers at risk.

A pilot scheme is planned to gather data which will help the DfT understand the risks and likelihood of failure.

Peter Lawton, aftermarket expert at the SMMT, talked at last week's UK Garage and Bodyshop Event about the latest insights around the MOT, which following consultation the DfT has agreed to remain as a year-three first test and then annual tests.

He said the DfT is focused on how the MOT test may need to change in future, to encompass the latest technology, particularly ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) such as autonomous emergency braking, steering assistance and cross traffic alert.

Progressively, more and more individual ADAS elements are being mandated, but one big question for DfT is whether it would be reasonable for MOT tests to include all the systems that are fitted on a car even if some weren’t mandatory.

From next month, General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2) legislation will mandate systems including lane keeping assistance and a reversing camera or sensors on all new cars in the European Union.

Off the back of workshops that the SMMT held with DfT and other third parties, Lawton said there will be a pilot scheme to gather data from workshops as they see vehicles for an MOT about how often there are defects with ADAS and sensors.

The data will help DfT to consider the impact of sensor issues in operations and to shape further explorations.

The traditional MOT station and current MOT regime is probably not best placed to test ADAS and EV systems, he said, which is why the subject is being explored.

The DfT notes that at present ADAS systems, and "even their terminology", are not standardised, and this makes it difficult to assess accurately what percentage of vehicles are already fitted with the devices.

Emerging DVSA data about electric vehicles, albeit from a small cohort, shows that at the first MOT test at three years-old more have tyre issues than with ICE cars. Early indications suggest suspension units on EVs could also be more problematic as they age, due to the higher weight of the vehicle.

“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.”

Currently the Government believes the MOT test is “mostly sufficient” even for electric vehicles, he said. However, there are questions the DfT will consider for the future, such as should an EV charging cable be tested, and should regenerative braking and battery capacity be included.