HVIA State Committees say ‘yes’ to truck widths and ‘no’ to trailer widths

HVIA State Committees are considering proposed changes to Australian Design Rules (ADR) governing vehicle width.

HVIA’s National Policy and Government Relations Manager Greg Forbes says the Department of Infrastructure’s Discussion Paper on Safer Freight Vehicles was high on the agenda at meetings in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney last week.

“This discussion paper proposes the relaxation of ADRs to incentivise safer and more productive heavy vehicles,” Mr Forbes said.

“Proposed changes to vehicle width have generated a diversity of views, particularly between truck and trailer manufacturers.

“I am reluctant to pre-empt the Victorian State Committee’s position before they meet next week, however all things being equal, it seems likely we will have broad consensus around the country.

“At this stage HVIA would support Option 1b, which involves increases in vehicle width for motor vehicles (trucks) to 2.55m with load restraint devices out to 2.6 m but preservation of the current width rules for heavy trailers.”

The discussion paper covers three main types of changes:

• Exemptions to width and length for indirect vision devices,
• options for additional width in exchange for the fitment of vehicle safety technologies, and
• changes to axle transition masses, axle spacings and rear overhang regulations to encourage safer and more productive vehicles.

Members were supportive of the proposed changes to indirect vision devices and for the treatment of axles.

Mr Forbes said that subject to outcomes from the Melbourne meeting, HVIA’s response will reflect those opinions.

“We will also raise the issue of steer axle mass concessions for vehicles fitted with safety features,” he added.

Comments close on 30 June 2021. For further information or input into the discussions, please contact Greg Forbes, on 0437 923 755 or g.forbes@hvia.asn.au.