DVSA issues MOT Special Notice 01-26: Zero emission goods vehicles

From 1 June 2026, zero emission goods vehicles with a design gross weight ("DGW") of 3501KG - 4250KG will be classed as Class 7 vehicles. 

These vehicles will need to undergo Class 7 MOT testing, with the first Class 7 MOT test taking place 3 years after the vehicle's registration date. 

Zero emission vehicles are defined as those without an internal combustion engine, or with an ICE that emits zero grams of CO2 per km. 

Why is this vehicle classification changing? 

The DVSA's Special Notice states that the change will free up capacity in HGV testing stations, and supports the adoption of zero emission vehicles by fleet operators. 

Vehicles in this DGW category are the same size as other Class 7 vehicles, the only difference being the weight of the battery. 

Do I need to invest in garage equipment for my workshop in order comply with this change?   

Your Class 7 testing station must accept and accommodate zero emission goods vehicles with a DGW of 3500KG - 4250KG. The DVSA's Special Notice specifies test standards, including the addition of speed limiters and changes to minimum tread depths for subject vehicles from 1mm to 1.6mm. 

If undertaking Class 7 MOT testing that includes zero emission vehicles in this category, your lifting equipment and/or inspection pits should accommodate vehicles up to or greater than 4250KG DGW.

Installing MOT bay equipment with CCS Garage Equipment

CCS Garage Equipment works with MOT testing and vehicle servicing centres throughout the UK and Ireland, supplying and installing up-to-date equipment that helps clients to operate safe and compliant MOT bays and organisations.

Supporting clients including vehicle dealership servicing centres, vehicle hire depots, and emergency services vehicle maintenance facilities, Class 7 MOT bays are designed, specified, installed and maintained by our specialist installation engineer teams, backed by unique industry insight and understanding that creates safe, efficient and up-to-the-minute working spaces.

CCS' garage equipment team will consult with you to discuss and review your Class 7 MOT bay requirements in order to ensure your equipment meets the DVSA's updated regulations, supplying and installing MOT bay equipment, including vehicle lifts, pits and jacking beams, by leading manufacturers that are trusted to perform year after year. 

Professional garage equipment installation & maintenance for vehicle workshops & MOT centres by CCS Garage Equipment

For over 30 years, CCS Garage Equipment has successfully delivered specialist garage equipment installation and maintenance for vehicle servicing, maintenance and repair workshops throughout the UK and Ireland.

Backed by exceptional industry and regulatory understanding, garage equipment consultancy to deliver efficient and reliable working spaces, CCS' garage equipment and MOT bay installation teams create contemporary, functional and future-proofed workshops for fleet operators, dealerships and brands including Volvo, Audi, Ford, Kia, Renault, police and ambulance services, and local authorities.

With LEEA and GEA accreditations and a large team working throughout the UK and Ireland, vehicle workshops are driven forward by CCS' eye-catching designs, versatile equipment and the highest of safety standards.