Brussels, 06/03/2015 (Agence Europe) - The European Parliament is due to vote in Strasbourg on Tuesday 10 March on the proposal amending Directive 96/53/EC on the maximum weights and dimensions of lorries in international transport. The aim of this revision is both to cut greenhouse gas emissions and to improve road safety.
The new directive will increase the maximum authorised size of trailers, from 40 to 45 feet (roughly 1 metre 50 longer). It is already possible to exceed the 40 feet but authorisation is complicated and costly to obtain. In intermodal transport (that is, combining road with rail or inland waterway transport), the maximum weight for lorries will rise from 40 to 42 or 44 tonnes (combined weight of the lorry and its load).
The revised directive will authorise the addition of retractable or folding aerodynamic devices at the rear of vehicles. It will also allow a newer, more rounded, shape of cab. These new cabs will be more aerodynamic, will provide a better viewing angle and will improve comfort for the driver. Their impact absorption in collisions is also better. The revised directive will require member states to put in place specific measures to monitor compliance with all the rules.
The European Commission is also conducting a re-assessment of Regulation 661/2009 on type-approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles. A proposal is scheduled for 2016. (Jean Comte)