Bigger trucks could be coming to UK roads as a ‘green’ alternative

After the nine-year trial of the longer vehicles, the Department for Transport plans on introducing more onto UK roads as early as next year, after it was found that they could be ‘safer’, more economical, and ‘better for the environment’.

The government estimates that longer-semi trailers, (LST), could remove up to one in eight freight journeys by carrying the same amount of cargo in fewer trucks. This would support the government’s Transport Decarbonisation plan by reducing mileage, congestion, and emissions.

The trial saw a reduction in the number of trucks making journeys across the country, with an average 8% reduction in miles covered by freight, as well as a 6.2% reduction in pollutants expelled.

The government is soon set to launch another trial using 48-tonne trucks, following a consultation on their introduction. These vehicles will be able to transport heavier containers directly to and from rail depots so that goods can be transported across the country by train.

Grant Shapps, Transport Secretary said: “This government is committed to fighting climate change and decarbonising our transport network, and we are working at pace to achieve net zero by 2050.”