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Dutch LHV trial doesn't address the real issues
Page 24
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rrs HARDLY SURPRISING that the recent trials of Dutch 25.25m rigs have so far had little effect on congestion (CM 7 December). Do the mathsThe total number of permits for LHVs (longer, heavier vehicles) in the Dutch trials covered something like 300 vehicles But the actual number of operators who used LHVs within that trial was probably fewer than 150, with a similar number of vehicles. With such a small sample it's hardly surprising that the Dutch didn't see that much change in congestion.
However, it is self evident that one 25.25m-long truck will take up less road space than two 16.5m artics plus the distance in between that is required for safe braking. And why are we still talking about congestion from 400,000 LG Vs in the UK when there are over 21 million cars on our roads?
However, the real question regarding LHVs is this: assuming the likely users of LHVs are going to be those hauliers who cube out before they weight out, isn't this sector already well served by double-deck trailers?
Travel along the M1 northbound at night and you'll see convoys of double-deckers carrying parcels. pallets and other high-volume cargoes into the various Midland distribution hubs.
So how much more 'cube' would a 25.25m rig offer over a 16.5m artic with a double-deck trailer. which takes up just over half as much road space?
Whatever the answer-and whatever the forthcoming report saysit doesn't take a genius to work out that while the industry might want LHVs, and supportive civil servants might make a case for them within the DtT,no transport minister is going to ride into battle on this one and face the wrath of backbenchers from every political party. It would be like turkeys voting for Christmas.
John Jarvis Atherstone Warks