Make HGVs better by design, urges FTA29 October 2013

Changes to HGV design to improve aerodynamics and safety are taking too long, says the FTA (Freight Transport Association), which is calling for the removal of regulatory barriers to development.

The association says its members are spending hundreds of thousands of pounds retrofitting HGVs to improve visibility from the cab, when in fact the best way would be to design out problems.

The FTA is involved in the European Commission's expert working group advising on the draft proposals to amend Directive 96/53, along with vehicle manufacturers, UK government, other member states, the freight industry and TfL (Transport for London).

"The best way to truly eliminate blind spots in HGVs is to design them out," states Christopher Snelling, FTA head of urban logistics and regional policy.

"FTA is fully supportive and engaged in the discussions taking place with the European Commission. Manufacturers want to produce vehicles they can sell into the entire European market, not just the UK, so it's right that this issue is being examined in Brussels."

The group's mandate has recently been amended to take into account other road users, including cyclists – taking advantage of current cab design improvements and their potential to eliminate blind spots.

Snelling adds: "If the Brussels-based institutions do not prioritise this initiative... a huge opportunity to radically improve safety on our roads in the most efficient fashion will be missed."

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Freight Transport Association Ltd

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