VOSA sent out Special Notice 03-2010 explaining that all diesel engine vehicles first used on or after 01 July 2008 have been required to comply with reduced Exhaust Smoke Levels. This has resulted in manufacturers having to release a new operating Programme.

VOSA have decreed that MOT testing stations must have their machines updated before the end of June 2011. The new procedure will form part of the test from 1^st July 2011.

 

VOSA have requested that manufacturers make the software available before July 2010 to allow stations ample time to have the upgrade installed on their machines.

The prescribed product specification change that VOSA have requested we implement is of a similar nature to the BETS update that was a chargeable update for the Petrol Machines. The price being charged for this update (£175+VAT) is cheaper than that charged for the BETS test. The vast majority of manufacturers are also charging for this update.  

 

We are unable to commit in advance to implement without charge every product specification change as prescribed by VOSA, as this is impossible to predetermine. As a goodwill gesture to Extended Care Contract customers, the cost of this update has been reduced to £150+VAT.

We advertise and include the Annual VOSA limits for the petrol programme. We are unable to commit to change our products as prescribed by VOSA without charge. 

 

Two reasons; Firstly, not all users have combined machines, a large number are stand alone Smokemeters. Secondly, VOSA have requested that this is made available before July, prior to when the petrol limits are released.

 

As VOSA have decreed that all Smokemeters have to be updated, stations have to update their unit. By invoicing now, the amount payable is subject to VAT at a rate of 17.5%, we feel that this figure could rise at the next budget due to be held in late June.