Flexible rules on truck dimensions will boost green credentials, say manufacturers06 June 2014

A revised EU directive on the weights and dimension of trucks has been welcomed by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), which is describing it as "a unique opportunity" to cut emissions from heavy commercial vehicles.

The EU's Transport Council has decided to allow longer vehicles which, says ACEA, will enable manufacturers to incorporate more fuel-efficient features into their designs.

"Industry should have the flexibility to make use of revised rules to deliver even cleaner and more efficient trucks in the most cost-effective manner," says Erik Jonnaert, the association's secretary general.

The sector has campaigned for revised weights and dimensions rules, saying it will boost efficiency for road freight operators. This includes permitting the wider use of the European Modular System (EMS). EMS improves fuel efficiency without impacting safety or increasing road wear, and can be implemented quickly at low cost.

ACEA is warning that any ruling on redesigned truck fronts must take manufacturers' design lead times into account – 10-15 years, on average. "Safety technologies that prevent accidents happening in the first place are the best way forward," adds Jonnaert.

New technologies such as cameras and proximity detectors will provide a quicker, more flexible and more efficient way to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists than redesigned cabs, says ACEA.

ACEA represents car, van, truck and bus producers, and has seven commercial vehicle members: DAF, Daimler, Iveco, MAN, Scania, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Author
Laura Cork

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