London, UK: The gross vehicle weight increase proposed by government to support the switch to non-fossil fuels is worthless without a corresponding axle load increase, warns Logistics UK.
Zero-emission vehicles are typically heavier, which with current weight limitations, results in a loss to the payload.
The decision to increase the gross weight limit of an HGV by two tonnes for certain zero-emission vehicles and up to one tonne for certain alternatively fuelled vehicles, is a positive step forward, Phil Lloyd, head of engineering policy, Logistics UK, said. “However, without a proportional increase in axle weights, the additional gross weight allowance will be unusable. While we are pleased to see government starting to address this issue, further steps need to be taken to ensure that the additional allowance can be applied effect, without compromising payload,” he said.
“As outlined within our consultation response to the Heavy Goods Vehicles: ending the sale of new non-zero emission models, published in July 2021, Logistics UK recommended an increase in maximum axle weights to be considered given the proposed increased weight of vehicles, but this has gone unheard.
“Loss of payload is a significant consideration for our members, so it is vital that the sector avoids a situation which could result in more vehicles being needed to transport the same level of goods using zero emission vehicles or alternatively fuelled vehicles.”
“The industry cannot move forward with the updated gross weight if the limitations are still set by the maximum axle weights. Logistics UK is focused on finding the right balance between reasonable range for zero emission vehicles and alternatively fuelled vehicle, without compromising payload,” Lloyd said.
