Roll out of longer semi-trailers from 31 May
Longer semi-trailers (LSTs) will be introduced to Great Britain’s roads from the end of this month.
New regulations will allow longer trailers to be used, which the UK Government estimates will save thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO2(e)) being released into the atmosphere each year.
From Wednesday 31 May, vehicle operators will be able to tow LSTs measuring up to 2.05 meters longer than a standard semi-trailer. This follows an 11-year trial to ensure LSTs are used safely on roads, with operators being encouraged to put extra safety checks and training in place.
These new lorries will move the same volume of goods, but are expect to use 8% fewer journeys than current trailers. Vehicles which use LSTs will be subject to the same 44 tonne weight limit as those using standard trailers. Due to the type of steering axle used, the new vehicles are also expected to cause less wear on the roads than conventional lorries.
Some Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs) will be familiar with LSTs and how to ensure they can be tested safely because of the trial. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is asking all ATFs to review their risk assessments before accepting bookings for LSTs.
You can read a summary of the research and findings from the longer semi-trailer trial here.