Government hails ‘brilliant step’ towards greener and safer HGVs

12.32 | 16 February 2022 |

Image: DfT

New regulations have come into effect permitting the use of elongated cabs and aerodynamic features on lorries – a move designed predominantly to reduce emissions, but also to improve safety.

The design of the elongated cabs improves driver vision by reducing blind spots. 

Additionally, the extra space means more comfort for the driver – such as by facilitating a larger bed in sleeper cabs – helping to reduce fatigue and improve welfare.

Meanwhile, the regulations also allow haulage haulage companies to choose vehicles with aerodynamic rear devices, which are fitted on the back of trailers to reduce the vehicle’s drag without using up load space. 

They were previously not permitted for use on Great Britain’s roads under regulations that have been in place since 1986.

A 2013 study estimated that these aerodynamic improvements to HGVs could result in fuel savings of 7% to 15%.

Baroness Vere, roads minister, said: “This is another brilliant step, not just in our efforts to reduce emissions across our transport network, but also to improve safety on our roads.

“I hope operators will make use of these new regulations, introducing vehicles with these features into their existing fleets to reduce fuel consumption and boost safety, as we build back better from COVID-19.”

The regulations came into effect on 14 February and have been welcomed by Logistics UK.

Phil Lloyd, Logistics UK’s head of engineering policy, said: “Allowing the use of aerodynamic features and elongated cabs on HGVs is fantastic news for our transport sector, which is looking to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

“These features are vital in helping to reduce emissions and improve air quality and Logistics UK welcomes the design of elongated cabs that improve driver vision and provide drivers with much-needed additional comfort space.”


 

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