JT, Author at motester.co.uk

DVSA Convicts Bristol Testers in Major “Ghost MOT” Fraud Case

The DVSA has successfully prosecuted two individuals involved in a large-scale “ghost MOT” operation, highlighting ongoing concerns around fraudulent testing and its impact on road safety. What happened? The case centred on a Bristol-based MOT testing site, where an authorised tester and an accomplice issued MOT certificates for vehicles that were never physically inspected. InvestigatorsContinue reading “DVSA Convicts Bristol Testers in Major “Ghost MOT” Fraud Case”

Industry Alliance Calls for Mandatory EV Battery Testing in MOT

Why EV battery health checks could become part of the MOT A major cross-sector industry group is calling for electric vehicle (EV) battery health checks to become a mandatory part of the UK MOT – a move that could significantly reshape testing procedures for garages across the country. The 4R Battery Alliance, which represents stakeholdersContinue reading “Industry Alliance Calls for Mandatory EV Battery Testing in MOT”

BMW’s New 700-Bar Hydrogen Tank: What It Means for MOT Testers and UK Garages

A major step forward for hydrogen vehicles BMW has unveiled a new generation of 700-bar hydrogen storage tanks as part of its latest BMW iX5 Hydrogen development, and it’s a significant step towards making hydrogen-powered vehicles mainstream. The new system replaces traditional cylindrical tanks with a “flat storage” design made up of seven interconnected carbon-fibreContinue reading “BMW’s New 700-Bar Hydrogen Tank: What It Means for MOT Testers and UK Garages”

SERMI scheme goes live in UK: Independent garages gain access to security data

After 17 years of industry campaigning, the UK’s independent garage sector finally has unrestricted access to vehicle security data. From 1 April 2026 the European Security-related Repair and Maintenance Information (SERMI) scheme is officially active in the UK. Compliant independent workshops that meet the scheme’s strict criteria can now access security-controlled technical information – such as key programmingContinue reading “SERMI scheme goes live in UK: Independent garages gain access to security data”

UK vehicle production falls again as weak global demand hits output

UK vehicle production has fallen sharply again in early 2026, with weak global demand, falling exports and ongoing industry disruption continuing to hit factory output. Latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show total UK vehicle production dropped by 17.2% in February, with just 68,061 units leaving production lines. Commercial vehicleContinue reading “UK vehicle production falls again as weak global demand hits output”

UK van market falls as EV demand falters and pickup registrations plummet

The UK van market has made a weak start to 2026, with falling registrations driven by collapsing pickup demand and slower-than-needed uptake of electric vans. Latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector is under increasing pressure from tax changes, economic uncertainty and the loomingContinue reading “UK van market falls as EV demand falters and pickup registrations plummet”

MOTs for Classic Cars: What Testers and Owners Need to Know in 2026

Classic cars have long occupied a unique position within the UK’s MOT system. While most vehicles require annual testing, historic vehicles can be exempt, but recent headlines and government updates have caused confusion across the industry. So what are the actual rules in 2026, and what do they mean for MOT testers and classic vehicleContinue reading “MOTs for Classic Cars: What Testers and Owners Need to Know in 2026”

MOT Testers’ Tech Update: EV Checks, ADAS and Emissions Changes

Key developments in MOT technology and regulation (2024–26) Over the past two years the UK’s MOT has begun adapting to new vehicle technologies. From 2025–26 DVSA will add stricter anti‑fraud measures (vehicle photos) and EV/hybrid‑specific checks (visual HV cables, battery and charge port inspections with heavier lifts). At the same time advanced driver‑assist systems (ADAS),Continue reading “MOT Testers’ Tech Update: EV Checks, ADAS and Emissions Changes”

Six MOT Failures Lead to Licence Revocation in Latest Crackdown

A UK haulage operator has lost its licence after a series of serious maintenance failings, including six consecutive MOT test failures on a single vehicle, in a case that underscores growing regulatory pressure on vehicle roadworthiness. The decision highlights ongoing concerns around operator oversight, maintenance systems and compliance standards within the heavy goods vehicle (HGV)Continue reading “Six MOT Failures Lead to Licence Revocation in Latest Crackdown”