Brussels, 18/09/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 17 September, the review of the weight and dimensions of lorries was the subject of bitter discussion by the European Parliament's transport committee, following a hearing of experts on the subject. The issue of mega-lorries has returned to centre-stage, though the revision proposed by the European Commission aims, above all, to improve aerodynamics for reasons of safety and reducing CO2 emissions.
The rapporteur on the proposal, Jorg Leichtfried (S&D, Austria), regretted the lack of preparation from the Commission saying that it had not presented an impact assessment on how longer and heavier vehicles would have negative effects on the modal shift to rail or on combined road/rail transport. He expressed concern that this type of bigger lorry could offer a competitive advantage for countries that use them.
MEPs were then able to ask detailed questions on the revision of the European regulation to experts representing road transport (IRU), automobile manufacturers (ACEA), combined transport (UIRR) and the European Cyclists Federation and Austrian Road Maintenance Agency (ASFINAG).
Leichtfried will present his draft proposal in November for a committee vote in February. (MD/transl.fl)