03/09/2026
Not what we like posting about but hey ho, it can't be fun and games all the time.
It appears a new set of emissions regulations are being proposed, these resulting in an extra test requirement beyond the MOT. The crucial difference between the existing legislation and the proposals is that it is now suggested that a vehicle's emissions must match those given on its original type approval. It will no longer be sufficient to be within the emissions limit set for the age and class of vehicle in question. In principle this should be possible to achieve, but in practice any alterations, whether done by choice or forced by factors such as cost or availability of parts, or indeed simple wear and tear could easily render a vehicle unable to comply and thus unable to be used on the road. Ironically for a proposal rooted in concern for the environment, it could potentially lead to the needless wastage of thousands of perfectly serviceable and hitherto legal vehicles.
The proposals currently apply only to post-2001 vehicles so not "traditional" classics as yet. However, whether you view these 21st century machines as the classics of the future or simply useful not-too-modern moderns, the effect of this legislation will be equally undesirable.
Unfortunately we have only found out this recently and the consultation closes at midnight this coming Sunday. We would urge you, however, to follow the link below, have a read and fill out the consultation questions to make your opinions known.
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