Cefic Position on the Revision of the Weight and Dimensions Directive
Position Paper
July 2022
The revision of the Weight and Dimensions Directive is important to incentivize zero emission transport in both road and combined transport. Additionally, heavy duty road freight transport needs harmonization and increased efficiency by eliminating the regulatory barriers in cross-border transport.
1. Road Only Transport
The revision of the Weight and Dimensions Directive should incentivize the uptake of clean and zero emission transport. Cefic proposes allowing a maximum gross weight (MGW) of 44 tons for road trucks, depending on the emission level of the combustion engines (see table). Additional weights should be allowed for alternative and zero emission vehicles, as foreseen in the current Directive, depending on the ongoing technical developments in this area.
MGW for Road Transport Based on Vehicle Emission Standards
| Road Only | 2022 | 202X | 203X |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 ton | <Euro 5 | ≤Euro 5 | ≤Euro 6 |
| 44 ton | ≥Euro 5 | ≥Euro 6 | 0 emission |
Additional Weight Allowance
- +1 ton for alternative fuels (HVO, LNG/CNG)
- +2 ton for zero-emission trucks
Cefic fully supports the proposed policy measures to increase the maximum allowed dimensions to 25.25 meters for European Modular Systems (EMS) trucks in cross-border transport. Cefic proposes to link this allowance with the emission standards of the engine used.
The current limitation of maximum weights to 40 tonnes for cross-border transport creates inefficiencies and a competitive disadvantage compared to national transport. This cross-border weight limitation should be removed when neighboring countries allow for higher maximum weights within their territory.
2. Combined Transport
The additional weight allowance for combined transport (CT) compared to road-only transport should be maintained as an incentive for modal shift to rail or inland waterways. Therefore, Cefic proposes to increase the maximum weight of the first and last road leg in CT to 48 tons. This maximum weight should also be linked to the emission standard of the engine used (see table below).
MGW for Road Leg in Combined Transport, Based on Vehicle Emission Standards
| CT Road Leg | 2022 | 202X | 203X |
|---|---|---|---|
| 44 ton | <Euro 5 | ≤Euro 5 | ≤Euro 6 |
| 48 ton | ≥Euro 5 | ≥Euro 6 | 0 emission |
Additional Weight Allowance
- +1 ton for alternative fuels (HVO, LNG/CNG)
- +2 ton for zero-emission trucks
Cefic believes that there are no major technical obstacles to handle heavier containers up to 34-36 tons in combined transport operations. Nevertheless, it’s recommended to study if there aren’t new technical obstacles in relation to infrastructures and lifting capabilities on terminals.
Cefic suggests inserting a requirement that new trailers must be craneable. This will stimulate combined transport and make it more efficient. However, the technical requirements for these trailers (e.g. additional metal reinforcements) should not lead to a reduction of the allowed MGW.
3. Additional Proposals to Include in the Revised Weight & Dimensions Directive:
- Cefic supports the use of aerodynamic technologies to further reduce the GHG-emissions. Nevertheless, Cefic recommends defining clear requirements on the benefit of aerodynamic technologies regarding energy savings, before allowing higher vehicle dimensions. The usage of aerodynamic technologies should not negatively impact the maximum allowed weight and dimensions of transport equipment.
- Cefic supports the promotion of electric trailers as they save around 16% energy consumption. However, they require heavier equipment which should not lead to a reduced maximum allowed payload.
- Member States should be stimulated to upgrade road infrastructure, making them suitable for heavier and longer HDV transports, at least along the comprehensive TEN-T network.
- A level playing field must be secured by aligning maximum weights and dimensions across the Member States. Enforcement must be simplified by implementing digitalized border crossing procedures. Drivers qualified for driving heavier and/or EMS-truck combinations should have their qualifications mutually recognized.
For more information please contact:
Joost Naessens, Transport & Logistics Director, Cefic,
+32 473646557 or jna@cefic.be.
About Cefic
Cefic, the European Chemical Industry Council, founded in 1972, is the voice of large, medium, and small chemical companies across Europe, which provide 1.2 million jobs and account for 16% of world chemicals production.
