Do electric vehicles need an MOT?

Why? MOT tests make sure vehicles are safe for the road. Like any other vehicle, EVs have to pass an MOT after they are three years old.

The main difference between MOTs for EVs and petrol or diesel cars is that there is no emissions or noise test.

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So, what does an electric car MOT look like?

Step 1:

As with an internal combustion engine MOT, an electric car has to be logged on the official MOT test computer system. While a petrol or diesel car will be taken through an emissions and noise check, as mentioned above there's no need to worry about that with EVs, so you'll jump straight to the next step.

Step 2:

The tester will make sure that all your lights work correctly.

Step 3:

Next, they’ll check the seatbelts, windscreen wipers etc and examine the windscreen for cracks or chips.

Step 4:

After that's done your car will be raised into the air on an MOT test lift.

They will then confirm that your steering is intact. The tester will also spin each wheel freely to check the tyres and test for the correct bearing operation which also includes a full suspension check.

Step 5:

The MOT tester will now look for any presence of rust at any key mounting points and brackets. Interestingly, MOT testers aren’t allowed to remove anything to check for the presence of rust, so the big aerodynamic underbody panel on most EVs will stay put.

Step 6:

Finally, it’s back down to the ground for the same brake tests you’d have in any car.

Can I do my MOT at the dealership or a local garage?

The answer is simple, you can do it at both. No one can refuse to do the MOT on your car, because they are unfamiliar with it. Some may ask you to demonstrate how your vehicle works.

Vehicles exempt from MOT:

• Cars and motorcycles made before 1960
• Goods vehicles powered by electricity
• Tractors

A list of exempt types of vehicles is on form V112. As per the .gov website, you will need to fill in the form if your vehicle is listed so that you can tax it.

How much does an MOT cost?

The maximum cost for a vehicle MOT according to the .gov website is £54.85, you could find it cheaper at your local garage or dealerships but should never pay more than the above-stated amount.

So, there you have it. EVs do in fact need to pass an MOT! Unless you’re driving a milk float or a tractor of course. ;)

Happy charging!

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