The DVSA has confirmed an extension to its connected MOT equipment rules, which include new decelerometers from 1 February 2020.
Businesses buying a new or replacement decelerometer for class 3, 4, 5 or 7 test lanes after this date will need to make sure it’s a model that can connect to the MOT testing service.
This includes buying replacement equipment, and as part of the process of getting authorisation to carry out MOTs at a test station.
DVSA has worked with decelerometer manufacturers to develop software that will allow their products to connect to the MOT testing service.
Related: Cost implications of connected MOT equipment major concern among garages
Connected equipment will save time, reduce the risk of error in entering MOT results and help to reduce the risk of fraud.
Chris Price, DVSA Head of MOT Policy said: “We’ve brought connected equipment in to modernise testing in MOT garages and reduce the potential for mistakes.
“It will make testing quicker, more accurate and give motorists greater confidence in the quality of testing.
“Garages already using this equipment have seen benefits to their business.”
Related: DVSA emphasises “phased introduction” of connected equipment amid cost concerns
DVSA is also working with manufacturers to develop diesel smoke meters and exhaust gas analysers that connect to the MOT testing service.
There are plans to make connectable models of these kinds of equipment mandatory for replacement equipment and new garages later in 2020.
The DVSA has emphasised that connectable equipment is not necessarily more expensive than the current equipment garages already have.
The difference between a connectable and non-connectable model is often its software, which means that non-connectable equipment models can be made connectable by a software update to allow it to connect to the MOT testing service.
MOT garage managers are encouraged to investigate the benefits of connected equipment and understand how it will help the testing process in their workplace.
Investing in connected equipment will improve the efficiency of their garages and help future-proof their businesses.
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