That’s the warning from Peter Tillotson, business development manager at TPMS specialist TyrePal, who argues that regulations should be brought forward to match those already applicable to passenger vehicles in Europe (since 2014).
Low tyre pressure means more friction on the road, and hence poorer efficiency and fuel performance, while high pressure “can create an oval shaped tyre and shorten wear time”, he advises.
“A fully-loaded HGV uses one third of its fuel to overcome rolling resistance,” says Tillotson, adding that Highways England estimates that up to 3,600 accidents and 20% of all breakdowns are directly related to flat tyres or low tyre pressure.
“UK HGVs are required by law to conduct daily checks before they start their journey, but a puncture can occur at any time,” he warns.
“If the legislation was to be extended, drivers would get updates on the pressure and temperature status of their tyres while on the road. This would allow them to remedy the situation before the low or high pressure causes a serious incident.
“Although there are no legal requirements as of yet, fleet managers should take matters into their own hands by installing a TPMS in every vehicle.
“This will give them peace of mind that drivers and vehicles are safe and they're not wasting huge amounts of fuel or causing unwanted downtime every year.”