DfT to begin 10-year trial of longer semi-trailers next year
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BREAKING NEWS
By Chris Druce
THE DEPARTMENT for Transport (DfT) has revealed that a 10year trial of 1,800 longer semitrailers will commence in January of next year.
Transport minister Mike Penning announced on Tuesday (11 October) that a trial of 900 trailers at an increased length of 2.05m, as well as 900 at an increase of 1m, operating within the existing 44-tonne weight limit will start next year.
The changes will bring the total permitted length for articulated trucks up to 18.55m, compared with the current maximum for drawbar combinations of 18.75m.
Despite citing environmental beneits as one of the reasons to trial longer semi-trailers, the DfT has ruled out increasing the length of cabs to allow a more aerodynamic frontal design.
Penning explains: “The trial will be subject to many rigorous annual assessments, and will be closely and independently monitored throughout the entire process.” Trailers taking part in the trial will operate under Vehicle Special Orders. Despite this, they will still be expected to under go annual checks.
WH 0 1 _ B o x A d E N
An independent contractor, ex
pected to be announced next month, will conduct assessments every four months covering the operational safety, manoeuvrability and economy of the trailers.
The DfT, which is inviting operators to express interest, will cap the number of trailers operators can run to ensure fairness, but it will not provide compensation if the trial is cancelled before the proposed 10-year period.
Those wishing to register their interest in taking part in the trial can visit www.dft.gov.uk/publications/longer-semi-trailers
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