New plans for the future of MOTs could see thousands of cars becoming 'death traps on wheels', ministers have been warned.

The Government has announced new plans for the future of MOTs, including extending the length of when to take a new car for its first MOT from three to four years.

There is also a hint that vehicle owners may only need to get MOTs every two years rather than one, according to the Daily Mail.

Motoring groups said the proposals, the biggest shake-up of MOTs for decades, would lead to more deaths and injuries on the roads.

There are also fears for the future of Britain's 23,400 approved MOT test centres could be starved of up to £123 million a year.

Concerns have been raised that thousands more cars, vans and motorbikes could be driving around with brakes and tyres which do not meet minimum legal requirements.

According to the announcement, to ensure MOTs remain fit for the future, the consultation is looking into changing the date at which the first MOT for new light vehicles is required from three to four years.

Although this has received mixed views from the media and across the motoring industry, the Government believes that the plans could save motorists around £100 million a year in MOT fees.

Data shows that most new vehicles pass the first MOT test at three years. In fact, Government analysis shows that a potential change from three to four years for the first MOT should not impact road safety.

After a consultation period, DfT will announce its plans to change the current way testing is done in the UK.

However, any changes will need to be supported by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Edmund King, AA president, was quoted by the Daily Express as saying: "The MOT plays a vital role in ensuring that vehicles on our roads are safe and well maintained, and while not a formal recommendation, we totally oppose any change from an annual MOT."