Firstly, What is Connected MOT Equipment?
Initially introduced for roller brake testers on 1st October 2019, the DVSA's new regulations require certain items of MOT equipment to connect directly to the government’s MOT Testing Service (MTS).
This means testers no longer need to note down results and enter them manually into the MTS.
The move towards connected test lanes is part of the DVSA’s initiative to decrease data-entry errors, help reduce fraud, and modernise MOT testing in garages.
What’s the roadmap for 2020?
Following the initial introduction of connected brake testers, the DVSA have announced the following rollout plan for 2020:
- Decelerometer – Introduced 1st February 2020
- Diesel Smoke Meter - Late spring 2020
- Exhaust Gas Analyser - Late spring 2020
- Headlamp Aim Tester - Summer 2020
Since the government has yet to confirm headlamp aim tester specifications to manufacturers, we’re expecting the summer introduction date for this item to slip, possibly towards the end of the year. As soon as we hear more from the DVSA on this we’ll let you know.
For emissions testing equipment, we have no current reason to believe that the introduction date will be delayed so businesses that may need new emissions equipment around this time should bear this in mind.
Who do the new regulations apply to?
If you’re not making any changes to your MOT bay or Vehicle Testing Station you won’t need to do anything. As the new rules come into force for each item of equipment they will apply to anyone:
- Opening a new MOT station
- Reopening a closed MOT station
- Making a change of ownership to an existing MOT station
- Replacing existing equipment
- Adding an extra test lane (Except for decelerometers - the current requirement is one decelerometer per Vehicle Testing Station regardless of the number of MOT bays.)
So for example, if you open a new MOT station in late spring 2020 after the introduction of connected emissions equipment, you’ll need a DVSA connected approved brake tester, exhaust gas analyser, diesel smoke meter, and decelerometer but you will not need a connected headlamp aim tester.
How quickly does MOT equipment need to be connected?
According to current DVSA rules, equipment must be connected to the MTS at the time of installation, except in the case of a change of ownership.
For existing MOT stations making a change of ownership with a new Authorised Examiner (AE) appointed, the DVSA is granting a transition period of 3 months to connect equipment to the MTS.
For further information on connecting equipment to the MTS, there are two Special Notices that have been issued by the DVSA:
Benefits of a Boston MOT Bay
One of the main advantages of a Boston connected test lane is that all items are operated from a single PC control station using one software solution. This means MOT Stations benefit from faster, simpler testing, streamlined service and support, and simplified installations. It also means that only one DVSA ‘key’ is required to connect all equipment to the MTS.
If you’re looking to buy the best MOT equipment for your business, Boston test lanes deliver an excellent return on investment. Find out more by calling us on 01708 525585 or send us a message using our contact form.
