BVRLA calls for taskforce to help with phase-out of non-zero emission HGVs

The BVRLA wants the government to come up with a delivery plan that supports the phase-out of non-zero emission HGVs between 2035 and 2040.

It said it wants to see a similar approach adopted for cars and vans.

In a response to a consultation on a phase-out, the association recommended the setting up of a taskforce with a range of stakeholders, including end users.

This group would play a key role in identifying the challenges in reaching the phase-out dates and in developing the solutions needed to overcome them.

It said members had highlighted how the approach for HGVs needed to be more nuanced and studied and that the government should reconsider its timings for the phase-out.

It said that the vehicle weight threshold for the 2035 and 2040 phase-out dates should occur at 18 tonnes not 26 tonnes and that another earlier split at 7.5 tonnes should be considered.

Members have also asked for an increase to maximum permissible weights to cater for the additional weight and loss of payload when moving to zero-emission vehicles.

“All of the members we spoke to as part of this consultation highlighted the massive uncertainty around future powertrain technology and infrastructure requirements,” said BVRLA CE Gerry Keaney.

“The HGV market will need massive long-term grants and incentives to go zero emission and government needs to ensure that any of the lessons and insights learnt from the various trials currently under way are fed through to the market quickly and clearly.”

The consultation closed last week.