Proponents say UK longer trailers will cut carbon emissions

UK TRAILER size will be increased to two-metres for articulated heavy goods vehicles within the existing weight limit of 44 tonnes to reduce emissions by around 100,000 tonnes, according to a consultation of 170 freight, logistics and retail organisations by the Department of Transport (DfT).


Kent-based Transport Engineer magazine reports that Freight Transport Association (FTA) head of engineering policy Andy Mair said these high-volume semi-trailers with a maximum permitted length of 18.75 metres will be bought by specific market sectors who transport bulk and low density goods, in a report from HGV UK.com


"Increasing the length of semi-trailers makes business sense and environmental sense, as it will improve logistics efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions," said Mr Mair of an green initiative that increases capacity on lighter goods by 13 per cent, halving vehicles used.


In a company statement from Stobart chief operating officer William Stobart said the move illustrates "that longer trailers with increased capacities could significantly increase load sizes without impacting on CO2 emissions, and at the same time reduce the number of trucks on the road" which will bring benefits to the environment, "other road users, and ultimately the retailers and their customers."
(Source:http://www.schednet.com)