HGV operators can now use aerodynamic features to reduce fuel consumption and emissions
Changes to legislation aimed to make HGVs more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
More environmentally friendly heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are allowed on Britain’s roads, thanks to new government regulations which came into effect on 14th February 2022.
The new rules allow haulage companies to choose vehicles with elongated cabs and aerodynamic features fitted on the back, which help reduce fuel consumption.
A 2013 study estimated that these aerodynamic improvements to HGVs could result in fuel savings of 7% to 15%.
The regulations come into force as the government continues to deliver on its commitments to build back greener from the pandemic.
The design of elongated cabs also improves driver vision, boosting safety for other road users. The extra space means more comfort for the driver, such as by facilitating a larger bed in sleeper cabs.
Aerodynamic rear devices are flaps that are fitted on the back of trailers to reduce the vehicle’s aerodynamic drag without using up load space. They were previously not permitted for use on Great Britain’s roads under regulations that have been in place since 1986.
Roads Minister Baroness Vere said:
“This is another brilliant step, not just in our efforts to reduce emissions across our transport network, but also to improve safety on our roads.
I hope operators will make use of these new regulations, introducing vehicles with these features into their existing fleets to reduce fuel consumption and boost safety, as we build back better from COVID-19.”
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