Reforms in review for safer freight vehicles

The Australian Government has released reform proposals in hopes of reducing barriers in the uptake of safer technology in heavy vehicles.

According to the proposed Safer Freight Vehicle (SFV) reforms, any vehicles exceeding 2.50 metres in width would need to be fitted with a mandatory technology package.

This technology package includes features such as: Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB); Improved rear vision mirrors and systems; Lane Departure Warning; Side Underrun Protection (SUP); and improved conspicuity markings.

Once finalised in Europe, blind spot information systems and advanced systems that detect pedestrians and cyclists on the passenger side of heavy vehicles will also be required as part of the mandatory technology package.

Following the announcement, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released a Discussion Paper on how to implement the SFV reform proposals, including increasing the width of heavy vehicles fitted with modern safety technologies.

NHVR Chief Regulatory Policy and Standards Officer, David Hourigan, said the reforms would support the uptake of safer heavy vehicles.

“The proposed SFV reforms would increase the fitment of safety technologies to new heavy vehicles by aligning local width regulations with those in major markets such as Europe,” he said.

“These reforms will give industry access to a greater range of heavy vehicles fitted with the latest safety technologies.

“We want to hear from industry and further unpack how to implement these Australian Design Rule (ADR) changes into the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).”

While the Australian Government is still finalising the details of these reforms, the NHVR is proactively considering how these changes might affect the HVNL.

“The heavy vehicle industry and truck manufacturers are ready for this next generation of safer trucks. The NHVR wants to make sure the HVNL is prepared to get these safer trucks on our roads.”

To read the Discussion Paper and submit your feedback, click here.

The closing date for written submissions is 30 June 2023.

In other news, the Bass Highway, a major freight link for transport operators in Tasmania, will see $2 billion worth of upgrades completed over the next four years.

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