Industry continues its call for action on the future of MOT testing
26 October 2026 
As the debate over the MOT fee continues, industry leaders across the automotive sector recently met to discuss how the test needs to evolve alongside vehicle technology, while trade bodies are joining forces to urge the Transport Minister to increase the MOT fee.
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), supported by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), brought together 24 industry representatives for a roundtable discussion on 21 October.
Chaired by IMI CEO Nick Connor, the meeting explored electric vehicle inspection requirements, emerging safety risks, workforce skills and training needs, alongside the financial pressures facing MOT test centres.
A key question was whether garages can continue delivering increasingly complex MOT inspections under a funding model developed for a much simpler vehicle parc.
Neil Barlow, Head of Vehicle Policy and Engineering at the DVSA, discussed future testing requirements, opportunities to reduce fraud and improve testing standards, and ways the MOT could better support motorists.
Nick said: “Getting such a wide range of experts around the table for this discussion was essential and provided valuable insights from real-world business experience that will help to inform how the MOT test evolves to meet future need.”
Meanwhile, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) and Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) have joined forces ahead of discussions with the transport minister to press for an urgent increase in the MOT fee.
The two organisations are presenting a united case to Government, warning that rising operating costs and the continued freeze on the MOT fee threaten the long-term viability of testing services.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said: “Garages cannot continue absorbing rising costs indefinitely while the MOT fee remains frozen. Urgent action is needed to protect the long-term viability of MOT testing and ensure motorists can continue to access this essential safety service.”
SMTA Chief Executive Alan Gall echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of Government action to protect both the industry and road safety.