HVIA call for separate implementation of Euro VI and general productivity mass limit increases in its response to National Transport Commission Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement
HVIA will argue increases in mass limits to accommodate Euro VI vehicles must be treated separately, and in addition, to general productivity increases in its response to the NTC’s C-RIS on proposed axle mass and dimension reforms.
The C-RIS proposes a range of reforms designed to accommodate increases to vehicle tare mass to offset Euro VI regulations, and other increases to lift productivity in general. It suggests Euro VI mass increases could be implemented separately, or in conjunction with, general productivity increases.
HVIA believes its preferred approach is vital to bring critically needed productivity improvements, and ensure that no unintended incentives to retaining older, non-Euro VI compliant vehicles are created.
Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger contends retaining older vehicles in the fleet would have negative outcomes, primarily regarding safety and the environment, but also to productivity in the longer term.
As such, implementing Euro VI increases in addition to other general increases to productivity is the best outcome for industry, he says.
HVIA has consulted with members extensively throughout October and November and is finalising a response on behalf of members.
Broadly, HVIA and its members strongly support proposals to improve heavy vehicle productivity through changes to mass and dimension regulations.
“The industry and wider community desperately need these reforms. Without them, the growing freight task will result in greater congestion, negative road safety impacts, and higher emissions,” Ritzinger says.
Responses to the National Transport Commission’s Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement (C-RIS) on proposed axle mass and dimension reforms are due at the end of this month.
HVIA will submit its response to the NTC this Friday, November 24.
RELATED STORY: HVIA Calls For Consistency On Mass Limit Increases