Latest news with #MOT
The Sun
3 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
CAAM-MAVCOM merger takes effect, Sharil Tarmizi named new chairman
PUTRAJAYA: The merger between the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) is now in full effect, consolidating all regulatory functions under CAAM. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) confirmed the move today, marking a shift towards a more streamlined aviation oversight system aligned with global standards. Datuk Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi has been appointed as the new chairman of CAAM, effective immediately. With over three decades of legal and corporate leadership experience, including his tenure at the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Sharil is expected to drive CAAM's transformation. 'His expertise in regulatory frameworks will be crucial as CAAM takes on expanded responsibilities,' the MOT stated. The restructured CAAM now operates as a Statutory Body with Separated Remuneration and Independence (BBDSB), granting it financial and operational autonomy. All MAVCOM staff have been offered positions within CAAM, with 93% accepting the transfer. The revamped CAAM Authority now includes economic and consumer rights experts to strengthen governance. 'This merger will enhance Malaysia's aviation efficiency and global competitiveness,' the ministry added. - Bernama
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Yahoo
Police caught almost 7,000 speeding drivers in Essex roads over a three month period
ESSEX police officers caught nearly 7,000 speeding drivers in Essex roads across a three-month period. The roads policing unit carried out thousands of road checks across the county between April to June and caught 6,914 drivers speeding. The checks took place in towns, villages, and the force focused its efforts on areas where crashes are more likely to take place. In April, police caught 1,692 drivers, 2,504 in May, and 2,718 in June. An Essex Police spokesperson said: 'Speeding is one of the contributing factors to fatal collisions. 'Even a small increase in speed can lead to longer stopping distances and if you are involved in a crash, more serious injuries.' Between April and June, the force also recorded 7,602 road offences which included offences such as driving under the influence, careless or dangerous driving, and MOT violations. The spokesperson added: 'Each of these offences carries serious consequences from fines and penalty points to, in some cases, imprisonment. 'People living in these areas have welcomed the extra checks. Many say it makes them feel safer. 'Enforcement and road safety checks will continue across Essex throughout the summer months and beyond. 'This is part of Vision Zero, our joint ambition with road safety partners to have no fatal collisions by 2040 or sooner. 'We're asking all road users to play their part. Drive within the speed limit, never drive under the influence, and always ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. 'Together, we can reduce harm and make Essex's roads safer for all.' To find out more about Vision Zero, visit
Mint
a day ago
- Automotive
- Mint
Could I please have my Thar back—if not an Ambassador?
My biggest loss since returning to India has been that of my beloved Thar. I had to give up this handsome whale of a car, inspired by the Jeep Wrangler, some years ago, and not because it was unfit for its purpose. Rather, it was because of a bizarre rule that places a cap of 10 years on the life of all vehicles running on diesel and 15 years on those powered by petrol in Delhi. Beyond those years, the vehicle, even if found parked on the road, will be seized and sent packing to the scrap yard. The ban was passed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 and upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018. It was a brutal setback to me, an expat trying to settle back down in the city I had grown up in and continue to love. I originally wanted an Ambassador, but this car had been phased out. The Thar served me well. It stoutly carried me up and down the mountains of north India without so much as a whimper. Twice it defended me physically, including once when a cab rammed into the back of this four-wheeled iron fortress at great speed, with injuries only to the assailant. Seldom did it break down. Also Read: Traffic penalties based on income levels would be both effective and equitable But the Delhi stricture on allegedly aged vehicles meant that I had to sell off my prized possession well before its time. Note that I could have happily driven it around in any state unencumbered by such regulation. I consoled myself on the grounds that, personally, I would be less responsible for the vehicular emissions that were bringing the world to the brink. But, of course, age-barring vehicles is a misguided policy that is quite rightly being challenged by the Delhi government. Curiously, alternatives have long existed. For close to three decades in the UK, I drove petrol and hybrid cars of myriad make and model that were sometimes many years old and sometimes new. I was able to enjoy running those cars in the UK and across Europe because local laws allowed me to do so. Those regulations are more relevant than ever to India, a car market that is expected to enlarge along with the economy. The original NGT ruling said, 'All vehicles, diesel or petrol, which are more than 15 years old shall not be permitted to ply on the roads and wherever such vehicles of this age are noticed, the concerned authorities shall take appropriate steps in accordance with law, including seizure of the vehicles in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act." Also Read: Encouraging hybrid vehicles will make climate change harder to fight UK regulation, on the other hand, stipulates an annual MOT (ministry of transport) test for your car—a system run by a fleet of more than 23,500 garages and some 66,000 mechanics authorized by the government to carry out stringent tests of roadworthiness. You pay a nominal fee for the test and, of course, for any labour or car parts needed. Your car will be tested for just about everything: from brakes, steering, visibility, lamps, reflectors, electrical equipment, axles, wheels, tyres, suspension, body structure, attachments, seat belts, doors and mirrors to something called 'nuisance' (noise and emission). The key to this whole exercise is a chain of trust starting with a qualification test for the mechanic. It's not as if this system is immune to fraud: a recent scandal involving fake tests and certificates ('ghost MOT') has prompted the UK government to propose that garages upload photos of the candidate car in a testing bay along with its number plate and chassis number. There is no age limit on vehicles. In fact, if your car is more than 40 years old, it may be exempt from an MOT test. But you must ensure that it is well maintained and roadworthy. Similarly, the European Commission proposes an annual check on all vehicles that are more than 10 years old. Its main goal is to reduce deaths and serious injuries from traffic accidents to zero by 2050. Also Read: CAFE puzzle: Tailpipes must not get to wag India's car market Of course, India's densely polluted cities do need to address emissions, particularly from dirty old vehicles, but policy must be evidence-based. That is what Delhi's chief minister Rekha Gupta is calling for in her government's legal challenge of the NGT ruling. A balance must be struck between our need to breathe safely and this city's insatiable hunger for cars. More high-end cars may hit Delhi's roads (which need repair too, please) once the UK-India free trade agreement swings into action. These cars will last long and their owners may want to drive in them for longer. Owning a car in India once meant it was a lifetime asset. A friend's 15-year-old Wagon-R in excellent condition got towed away, he says—without so much as a by-your-leave—by a gang of men hired by the municipal corporation. 'They were enjoying themselves so much it reminded me of snatchers in the Harry Potter books who got rewarded for rounding up muggles." Also Read: Stuck in first gear: Take a close look at what ails car sales in India Gupta is right to emphasize fitness over age. We are not a throwaway people; we like to save money and cling to things, and we savour experiences like the freedom of a car ride. A TV set or car is a relationship. Almost human, all it needs is an annual once-over, easily done if the city's eager 24x7 service economy is given the foundational strength of quality and trust. The author is a former European and UK correspondent for the Hindustan Times.
Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- Straits Times
17-member committee to drive roll-out of autonomous vehicles in Singapore
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox They will coordinate efforts across four workgroups, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) said on July 31. SINGAPORE - A 17-member committee comprising representatives from the industry, academia, union s and the Government has been set up to guide Singapore's progressive roll-out of driverless vehicles. Chaired by Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow, the committee will look to ensure autonomous vehicles (AVs) are integrated safely into Singapore's land transport system, while creating job opportunities and improv ing connectivity for residents. They will coordinate efforts across four workgroups , the Ministry of Transport (MOT) said on July 31. One workgroup will look at the near-term roll-out of AVs that takes into account r esidents' feedback. This is as autonomous shuttle s are slated to start ferrying passengers in Punggol by the end of 2025. The second workgroup will consider t he regulations, liability and enforcement needed to ensure the safety and accountability of driverless technology. Another workgroup will look at employment and industry matters, including nurturing local capabilities and creating jobs . The fourth workgroup will oversee technology and safety so as to develop a robust cyber-security and data policy for AVs. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore SMRT's finances hit by 2024 EWL disruption; profit after tax for trains division dips 8% Asia US-Malaysia tariff deal set for Aug 1 after Trump-Anwar phone call Singapore Underground pipe leak likely reason for water supply issues during Toa Payoh fire: Town council Business Singapore gold investment soars 37% to 2.2 tonnes in Q2 while jewellery demand wanes Multimedia 60 years, 60 items: A National Day game challenge Life Milo tees, kaya toast pimple patches, crockery: Here are the SG60 merch to collect Business Deepening Singapore-Latin America ties a matter of urgency amid global trade uncertainty: Alvin Tan Singapore 'Switching careers just as I became a dad was risky, but I had to do it for my family' Here are the members of the committee: Industry representatives: Mr Alex Hungate, president and chief operating officer at Grab, a technology company with ride-hailing and food delivery services. Mr Cheng Siak Kian, managing director and group chief executive of transport operator ComfortDelGro . Dr Heidi Ruth Wyle, founder, chairman and chief executive of Venti Technologies, a firm that develops AV technology for logistics purposes . Dr Limbu Dilip Kumar, co-founder and chief operating officer of AV company Moovita. Mr Ngien Hoon Ping, group chief executive and executive director at transport operator SMRT. Mr George Ivanov, head of international policy and government affairs at American AV company Waymo . Dr Tony Han, founder, chairman and chief executive of Chinese AV company WeRide. Academia representatives: Prof essor of control and mechatronics Marcelo H. Ang Jr from the National University of Singapore's school of mechanical engineering. Professor of cities and transportation Zhao Jinhua of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Union representative: Ms Yeo Wan Ling, assistant secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress, adviser to the National Private Hire Vehicles Association and National Taxi Association, and executive secretary of the National Transport Workers Union. Government representatives: Mr Siow, who chairs the committee. Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Manpower and Health. Mr Murali Pillai, Senior Minister of State for Transport and Law. Ms Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs. Ms Sun Xueling, Senior Minister of State for Transport and National Development. Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Trade and Industry as well as National Development. Ms Jasmin Lau, Minister of State for Digital Development and Information as well as Education. In June, Mr Siow revealed plans for autonomous shuttles to start ferrying passengers in Punggol by the end of 2025. This will be done in steps, with the shuttles initially not carrying passengers until residents and road users are comfortable with them. Safety officers will be on board and will step in when needed, although this role will eventually be removed. The adoption of driverless shuttles is seen as a means to improve public transport connectivity here, as it can give people more options while overcoming labour constraints facing some transport services. In the short term, the autonomous shuttles are expected to provide short, fixed-route services to various points within Housing Board estates, supplementing regular public bus services, taxis and private-hire vehicles. In the medium term, this could be widened to include introducing services constrained by labour today, such as night buses, which can be run more frequently with driverless vehicles, Mr Siow had said. In July, a driverless shuttle bus service at integrated resort Resorts World Sentosa became the first in Singapore to be allowed to operate without any human personnel on board.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Urgent warning for drivers who own cars made between 2001 and 2017
A tax warning has been issued to drivers who have cars with specific registration plates. The alert is aimed at motorists with vehicles made between 2001 and 2017 A tax alert has been issued to drivers who own cars with specific registration plates. The warning is targeted at motorists with vehicles manufactured between 2001 and 2017. The alert follows a Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) overhaul under the Labour Party. For older cars, including modern classics registered between March 1, 2001 and March 31, 2017, the system remains emissions-based, and those emitting less than 100g/km will continue to pay nothing, while for everyone else there's a £10 increase compared to 2024 rates. Car insurance company Hagerty stated: "That means owners of older cars emitting more than 255g/km of CO2 will pay £735 a year for the privilege of driving on Britain's beautifully-maintained road network. Ahem." It comes after UK drivers were warned over 'avoiding' a road instead of having to follow new rule. The firm added: "Cars registered before 1 March 2001, that were still younger than 40 years old on 1 January 2025, are charged based on engine capacity. That's £210 a year for those under 1,549cc and £345 for anything above. The Government considers any car older than those to be a "historic vehicle" and is therefore exempt from paying road tax, or, indeed, being required to have an annual MOT test." Drivers who have vehicles registered afterwards pay under a different system. For the first year of registration, they have to pay a "showroom tax", which is based on the vehicle's CO2 emissions. John Cassidy, managing director of sales at Close Brothers Motor Finance, has highlighted that some buyers are already deterred by the sparse battery charging network for electric vehicles (EVs), reports Chronicle Live. Lorna Macpherson, a car finance specialist at Ocean Finance, pointed out that although tax reforms make eco-friendly cars more economical to operate, the soaring costs of motoring may prevent drivers from making the switch. She said: "For petrol and diesel cars, an increase in VED means higher running costs for owners, making newer, more efficient cars even more attractive." Yet, Lorna observed that "with rising interest rates on car finance" coupled with the financial strain felt by Britons, "many will hold on to their current vehicles for longer rather than upgrading". In addition, a warning has been sounded for millions of UK motorists who use E10 fuel. The shift to E10 petrol is driving up fuel expenses for drivers and road users across the country, as recent alerts have indicated. The E10 initiative was backed by the previous Tory government as a step towards environmental conservation. Nonetheless, research from the University of Warwick has disclosed that the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation, which includes E10, has led to increased fuel prices. The study revealed that over the past five years, the RTFO has added an average of 3.5p per litre to unleaded petrol and six pence to diesel prices. The research, conducted by Dr Nikhil Datta and Johannes Brinkmann and published through the CAGE Research Centre, attributed the increase to rising biofuel costs and escalating RTFO obligations. E10 is a biofuel blend consisting of 90 per cent conventional unleaded petrol mixed with 10 per cent ethanol. The standard unleaded fuel available prior to the introduction of E10 contained a maximum of 5% ethanol and was suitable for any petrol-powered vehicle without issues or the need for modifications.
