Andy Burnham has been urged to explore the introduction of a fresh "annual" MOT test tailored specifically for classic vehicles.
Veteran cars aged over 40 years are currently excused from MOT examinations under a rolling exemption scheme, meaning vehicles manufactured from 1986 onwards are no longer obliged to take MOT tests starting this year, reports the Express.
While owners of historic motors may opt to undergo an MOT test voluntarily, these assessments are predominantly geared towards contemporary vehicles rather than classics, with test standards encompassing aspects such as emissions, ABS and warning lights which don't apply to numerous older models.
Recent research conducted by Hagerty UK, involving more than 1,200 motorists, has revealed appetite for a new "classic-specific MOT test" designed for historic vehicles. The survey discovered that 64 per cent of road users would support a bespoke classic-vehicle variant of the MOT examination, expressing worries that conventional MOT testers don't possess the expertise to evaluate older vehicles properly.
Currently, 43 per cent of respondents whose vehicles are exempt still opt to present their car for an MOT test to verify its safety.
Mark Roper, managing director of Hagerty UK, said: "Our survey shows many classic vehicle owners have concerns over MOT exemption. It is clear that many owners would welcome a classic-specific MOT test, one that proves roadworthiness with tests more appropriate for the age of vehicle.
"Most agree there should be some form of annual inspection, ideally by a classic car expert, particularly as many popular cars are now exempt from any form of annual test and can be driven freely regardless of condition."
Fresh classic MOT assessments might even boost resale prices, with 43 per cent indicating they'd be willing to pay a premium for an exempt vehicle carrying a current MOT certificate. Additionally, 47 per cent reckon that compulsory MOTs would aid in safeguarding classic motors for generations to come.
Dale Keller, CEO of the Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), said: "We support regular safety and roadworthiness checks for historic vehicles that are exempt from the statutory MOT, particularly when a vehicle is being returned to the road after a period of storage, following restoration or significant mechanical work.
"There is a clear rationale for the current exemption, not least because historic vehicles can require specialist knowledge to assess properly. However, we believe there is a strong case for developing an optional, industry-led roadworthiness inspection specifically for MOT-exempt historic vehicles."
