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FTA: sat-nay problems are easily solved
Page 13
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Words: Chris Tindall THE FREIGHT Transport Association (ETA) says problems arising when trucks are directed on to inappropriate roads by satellitenavigation systems could be solved simply by more providers offering CV-specific options.
The association is responding to a government consultation that raises the possibility of amending legislation, so both 'static' and 'dynamic' systems are licensed, and developing a star rating system to provide clear information.
The study by the Department for Transport (DtT) follows a number of instances in which trucks have become stuck or caused damage as a result of taking inappropriate routes.
However, the FTA says the government shouldn't over-complicate the situation. James Firth, FTA roads policy manager, comments: "The technology to alter a route's bias in favour of major roads and against minor roads already exists in some computer-based route-planning software.
"It solves some of the high-profile routeing problems, such as Barrow Gurney in Somerset and Miller's Dale in Derbyshire. However, sat-nay manufacturers seem slow to pick up on offering this as standard with their in-vehicle units."
The DIT says a number of issues were particularly pertinent among consultation responses, such as: • The need to balance regulatory and non-regulatory methods for ensuring the safety of in-vehicle information systems (IVIS) • The concern felt about the degree of communication between local authorities and the mapping companies • The agreement on the need for improved consumer information about IVIS.
A Di T spokesman adds: "[We] continue to keep the situation under review, and will take account of any new evidence or alternative approaches."