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Action man
Page 4
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Vehicle weights must be taken out of the political arena. We can no longer afford the luxury of running vehicles which are engineered for 38 tons or more at a mere 32 tons. In the interest of energy conservation, the Minister should be pressing his fellow ministers to accept heavier gross weights now.
It does not necessarily follow that engine ratings should increase in line with gross weights; indeed, they need not alter. At 240bhp the power to weight ratio is still an acceptable six at 40 tons gvw and would yield full savings.
Our experimental road speed trials proved that a 50mph maximum on motorways was the most economical speed. It not only saved fuel but it also reduced operating costs, a conclusion which should be exercising Mr Fowler's mind.
Of course there would be difficulty in coping with certain long hauls on reduced top speed during a shortened driving day. However, reverting to a 10or 11-hour driving day would not prove a massive problem. Europe would have to be convinced — but the energy problem is theirs as well.
This is a matter which demands immediate and decisive action. It is an opportunity for our new Transport Minister to give the lead to his European colleagues and declare himself a man of action.