New EC proposals could save UK hauliers’ 4m-high trailers
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By Patric Cunnane
TWO NEW proposals from the European Commission (EC) look set to end its opposition to newbuild single trailers of more than 4m in height, which would allow UK hauliers to maintain their current trailer leets.
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) and Road Haulage Association (RHA) have lobbied Brussels, together with the Department for Transport, for weights and measures harmonisation to be reconsidered as 80% of the UK’s trailer parc is 4.2m in height.
“This is the light at the end of the tunnel,” says FTA European affairs manager Chris Yarsley.
RHA director of policy Jack Semple says: “Brussels has taken our concerns on board.” The irst option would allow the manufacture of enough single trailers and vehicles over 4m in member states that required them. This could be achieved through the Small Series Type Approval Exemption from the Masses and Dimensions Directive. The exemption allows for a maximum of 250 vehicles per country but the EC seems prepared to extend this.
Option two creates Euroclass and non-Euroclass vehicles. Trailers and rigids under 4m and meeting the other dimensions would receive type approval as Euroclass. Those exceeding 4m would be non-Euroclass and could only be operated in member states that allowed them.