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Make the tractor units Longer so drivers can properly 'Live' in them
Page 17
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THIS ISSUE OF longer heavier vehicles (LHVs) does not appear to be reaching a conclusion in the forseeable future — not even so much as a compromise.
Never a supporter of LHVs, I am, however, interested in the concept of an increase in overall Length of an articulated vehicle.
Not that I wish to carry more cargo, which the customer is unlikely to pay extra for, but the chance to have a cab which I can actually live in. The longer articulated vehicle has been used extensively in France, but the French don't use it to carry more cargo. Instead, they increased the length at the front end, the tractor unit, which is why, on my travels, I'm amused to note the vast number of the United States' finest trundling up and down the highways and byways of France.
However, our French friends do risk the ire of the enforcement authorities and regularly receive a penalty of €90 for being over length, which many seem willing to accept.
I would support an increase in overall length to 19m for an articulated vehicle, with operators given the choice to add it to the trailer or, as in my case, to the tractor unit.
This should give Scania the chance to reintroduce the famed Longline, which would satisfy many drivers. My own choice, though, would be the Kenworth, which should inspire anyone — young or old — to consider a driving career.
As for the interference from The Department of Abject Failure in Transport [DAFT], might I suggest this body keeps its nose out of an issue it seems to know absolutely nothing about.
Peter F Orr Plymouth Via email Ed's note: For more on LHVs, turn to p48-49.