18-tonne plan falls flat
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by Brian Weatherley • A Department of Transport proposal to raise the maximum gross weight of two-axle rigids from 17 to 18 tonnes in line with EU limits, while retaining the present UK 10.5-tonne drive axle limit, has received a lukewarm reception from manufacturers and trade associations.
They say it would only increase problems of overloading and force widespread changes to vehi cle wheelbases.
The move to higher rigid weights has been prompted by pressure from bus and coach operators who are faced with increasing vehicle kerbweights due to the adoption of additional equipment including seatbelts, double glazing and additional roof supports.
The DOT is now hoping to extend the scope of such a change to two-axle goods vehicles—but not tractors.
To achieve an 18 tonne GVW, vehicles would require a 7.5 tonne front axle, achievable through fitting of 315/80 R22.5 tyres tonnes on most of existing chassis.
But Volvo's sales engineering manager Ray Cattley says the lack of any loading latitude would only make problems worse for operators with diminishing loads and that existing 17-tonne rigid wheelbases would need changing. And they would change again when the British derogation from an 11.5-tonne drive axle ends in 1998.
Freight Transport Association head of vehicle engineering Ron Rider says that while the association will not oppose the move, few operators will enjoy any major operating benefits from the increase.
The DOT has asked for replies by the end of May. If there is support it will then send out a formal consulation document with a view to changing the law via amendments to Construction and Use Regulations.