Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular as people become more environmentally conscious. Outside of the manufacturers and franchised dealership networks, the recovery, repair, and maintenance of these cars are on the rise. To operate securely, they may also need to gain a broader set of skills and knowledge, as well as have access to specialised tools and equipment. An MOT certificate is not required for electric goods vehicles that were registered with the DVLA before March 2015. After three years of the vehicle purchase, though, an electric automobile will still require an annual MOT test. The majority of the tests are the same as for conventional automobiles, although all-electric vehicles do not have an emissions test.
Also, an authorised MOT tester can complete an MOT on a hybrid, but if you require extensive repairs, they may need to send you to a nearby hybrid car expert. In most cases, there is no cost difference between a hybrid and petrol, diesel, or electric car. At least in some models, there is evidence that the heavyweight of electric batteries and the high torque of electric motors exerts extra pressure on the tyres and suspension. Tyres are one of the most common reasons for an MOT failure, so inspect them for damage or tread wear regularly and make sure they're properly inflated. As a result, many MOT training providers are incorporating MOT classes in the Level 2 award in Hybrid vehicle routine maintenance activities and Level 3 award in Electric Hybrid vehicle system repair and replacement. According to industry trends, it may be necessary for every MOT tester to be proficient in doing MOT testing on hybrid and electric vehicles, and this will demand additional skill training to operate safely with these vehicles.
In addition to the risks connected with MOT Testing, vehicle repair and maintenance, roadside recovery, and other vehicle-related operations, E&HVs introduce new hazards into the workplace. In the MOT management course, MOT testers course, and MOT annual training, authorised MOT managers, MOT training instructors, and AE should indicate the following risks
• the existence of high-voltage components and wiring that might cause a lethal electric shock.
• Because electric vehicles are quiet in operation, people may be unaware that they are moving.
• the possibility that the vehicle's electrical systems will interfere with medical equipment like pacemakers and any electrical prosthesis.
• MOT Testing centre staff must require additional manual handling training due to the lifting practises of the heavy electrical batteries.
• Hybrid vehicle components may retain a hazardous voltage long after the vehicle has been turned off.
Vehicle repair and MOT professionals, on the other hand, are going to require a significantly higher degree of expertise to operate safely on these vehicles. In the Hybrid MOT Classes, MOT Expert will instruct students on how to decrease risk and work safely on hybrid cars, as well as how to diagnose and repair high-voltage electrical systems and instruction in the removal and replacement of electrical components.
Safe MOT Testing of the Hybrid vehicles
• Before commencing any MOT Testing, visually inspect vehicles for evidence of damage to high-voltage electrical components or cabling (usually coloured orange). Consider whether or not the battery's integrity has been jeopardised.
• Have access to dependable vehicle-specific information sources. For instance, a manufacturer's documentation.
• Always separate or disconnect the high voltage battery according to the manufacturer's recommendations unless a specific MOT testing task necessitates the vehicle to be powered up.
• Vehicle batteries and other components may still hold substantial quantities of energy and maintain a high voltage even when disconnected. Only appropriate test equipment and tools should be used like GS38-compliant electrically insulated tools and test equipment.
• Consider the dangers of working on this live equipment and take appropriate measures, including the use of personal protection equipment (PPE). During MOT Testing, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safety measures, including PPE requirements.
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