The UK Government says the new rules will allow haulage companies to choose vehicles with elongated cabs and aerodynamic features fitted on the back, which help reduce fuel consumption.
Moreover, the government states the design of elongated cabs also improves driver vision, boosting safety for other road users. Another benefit comes in the shape of extra space, which can mean more comfort for the driver.
Commenting on the announcement, Roads Minister Baroness Vere said the changes were “another brilliant step, not just in our efforts to reduce emissions across our transport network, but also to improve safety on our roads.”
The Baroness added: “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,” before going on to use the government’s ‘build back better’ slogan.
Meanwhile, 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.”
The RHA also welcomed the announcement, writing on its website:
“We welcome this announcement on HGV vehicles and believe that this is eminently sensible to have innovations that allow for stream-lining and therefore improved fuel efficiency.”
