Express and parcel operators in Germany have welcomed a government move to launch tests ofso-called ‘long trucks’ this year.
German transport minister Peter Ramsauer has now formally presented proposals that would givethe 25m trucks exceptional approval to use German motorways. This would overcome opposition by someregional governments to the plan. Seven German states are expected to take part in the field testswhich are to be limited until the end of 2016.
In response, the association of international express and parcel operators (BIEK) welcomed theministry’s latest activities to prepare the field tests. BIEK board member Hans-Peter Teufers said:“The industry is confident that the broad, scientifically supported experiment can startshortly.”
Under its Action Plan for Freight Transport and Logistics, the German government has beenplanning a long-term technical test this year of the long truck (‘Lang-LKW’ in German) to evaluateits potential and risks. Two of the ‘long trucks’ (20-25 metres, 40-44 tonnes) could in theoryreplace three standard-size lorries, according to the vehicle’s advocates. At the same time, thetrucks are expected to reduce the CO2 footprint of the German CEP industry.
According to the draft, 20-25m trucks can drive under certain conditions on specified routes. Anincrease of axle load limit and weights is strictly rejected. Each participating company can testonly two combinations.
Long trucks have already proved their ecological, economic and traffic advantages as well astheir traffic safety in individual tests in German federal states and also abroad, BIEK stated.
“Innovative concepts are absolutely necessary with all modes of transport, also on the road, tocope with the future freight traffic. Rail and inland waterways will not be able to cope alone withthe expected growth,” Teufers added.
Now, all the participating states should promptly submit all the routes to the ministry toenable the timely go-ahead of the test, BIEK suggested. The association added that it will continueto accompany the preparation including the functional adaptation of the legal framework in aconstructive way.
Founded in 1982, BIEK represents major private express and parcel companies in Germany who havea collective market share of about 50 per cent.
