In recent months, the Government has launched a handful of new consultations to streamline the motoring industry and boost efficiency. As the cost of living crisis continues to hammer millions of Britons, it is hoped these consultations will lead to changes to save money for drivers.
MOT test changes
Proposals for new MOT test rules were unveiled in January when the Government released a consultation seeking views on a number of changes.
The biggest option for change was to increase the date at which a first MOT is required for vehicles from three to four years.
If this were to go ahead, it would save Britons around £100million a year, with the average MOT costing £54.85.
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Previous proposals were put forward following a consultation in 2017, with vehicle and safety developments being made at a rapid pace, hence the reintroduction of the plans.
Other ideas included testing the pollution levels of petrol, diesel and hybrid cars to ensure they meet emissions requirements across their lifespan.
Groups including the AA have criticised the consultation, saying it could lead to more safety risks and accidents on the road because people would not have vehicle upkeep at the top of their minds.
The consultation was originally meant to end in February but was extended until March, with results expected in the coming months.
These targets will gradually be increased to 80 percent in 2030 and 100 percent by 2035, the same year as the final sales ban on new hybrid vehicles.
The Government’s preferred ZEV mandate option is estimated to cost around £101billion, but could bring in £145billion in benefits, with a £35billion saving for households with reduced fuel costs.
Many organisations were supportive of the new mandate, with EV campaign group FairCharge, praising the Government for not “watering down” the proposals.
The consultation was originally launched on March 30 and will run until May 24, with the evidence being used to finalise the ZEV mandate.
Fuel crisis
In April, a new consultation was launched to consider whether fuel tankers should be legally allowed to carry more fuel to ensure any future crises are prevented.
At present, most fuel tankers operate with additional space in the tank given there is a 44-tonne weight limit for these vehicles.
Under new proposals, this rule could be scrapped and allow tankers to carry more fuel, potentially at times when petrol stations are running low on supplies.
Richard Holden, Roads Minister, said: “Thanks to the Government’s bold measures to support the sector, our country has now an even stronger haulage supply chain.
“We will continue to work with and listen to the sector to ensure our forecourts are always well stocked and motorists can fill up with confidence.”
Any roads and routes that would be used to carry the fuel tankers would be agreed upon in advance, with safety checks being carried out for proper management.
National Highways stated that any safety risks would be “extremely small”, with businesses benefitting from the increased efficiency. The consultation will close on May 17.
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