16 million computerised MOT tests completed using new Siemens system

The MOT Computerisation scheme is the result of a major effort by VOSA to improve road safety and testing standards as well as reduce fraud and simplify administration. The system will also enable VOSA to have access to more detailed information, such as the most common failure point for vehicles, when the busiest time of year is for MOTs or how many tests are processed per day.

The services provided by Siemens Business Services involved the design, build, installation, financing and operation of the MOT computer system. To support the new system, Siemens Business Services has provided training for users, produced and distributed both the MOT Manuals and the Smart Cards used for identification and access to the system.

Siemens Business Services has also established two service desks to support users of the system and a Public Enquiry Service for members of the public to check the MOT status and history of vehicles either via the internet or a telephone helpline.

Alex Fiddes, Director Private Vehicles Sector, VOSA, commented: “MOT computerisation is the single, most exciting change to the MOT scheme since its inception in the 1960s. The new system is a huge achievement for VOSA, our partner Siemens Business Services and the MOT garages; the vast majority of whom have welcomed its introduction.

“Going forward, VOSA staff will use the new system to monitor MOTs and ensure compliance, the maintenance of correct standards and the avoidance of fraud. The database provides the government with accurate data about vehicles and supports the Electronic relicensing of vehicles excise duty.”

Ian Tait, Operations Related Services Director, Siemens Business Services, added: “We are delighted with the smooth roll-out of this project and the hugely positive feedback from garages. The computerisation scheme has gone from strength-to-strength during its development and we already have over 16 million MOT records on the database, a figure increasing by an incredible 140,000 tests every day.”

In developing the MOT Computerisation scheme, Siemens Business Services established two mainframes in Blackpool to hold the central database. Vehicle testing stations connect to this central database, which includes vehicle information, test results and details of authorised examiners and testers. Access to the system, for authorised users in the garages, is via Smart Cards and a password. The Smart Card has a contact-less chip inside and the user’s personal photograph on the front.

VOSA users will be able to access the system via their existing computer network or remotely, and vehicle data is being passed between the DVLA database and the MOT Computerisation each day. That data includes the Vehicle Registration Mark, the Vehicle Identification Number, the make, model and colour of vehicle, engine capacity and the type of fuel it runs on. When a vehicle is tested, a match with the DVLA data is sought, to retrieve that data.

The key benefits of the MOT Computerisation programme are as follows:

- Improved testing standards - providing accurate, up-to-date information for MOT testing stations.

- Reduction in theft and fraud associated with MOT certificates reduced dependence on paper certificates and the ability for motorists to check MOT Status directly with the central database.

- Improved administration - information to and from garages passed electronically; automatic collection and updating of information; electronic ordering and payment systems.

- Improved consumer protection and confidence in the MOT test - ensuring more consistent standards; enabling the general public to check if a vehicle passed or failed an MOT via a Public Enquiry Service (PES).; improved protection and easier detection of fraud.