XPO has added another 30 longer semi-trailers (LSTs) to its fleet to boost its environmental performance and help remove carbon from its clients’ supply chains.

The government trial of the trailers, which are up to 2.05 metres longer than standard semi-trailers, began in 2012 with around 300 operators, including XPO, taking part.

LSTs increase capacity by 180% compared to a single deck trailer, improving operational efficiency and environmental performance.

In May 2023, the government announced operators no longer needed to apply for a special licence to run LSTs.

Dan Myers, XPO Logistics UK and Ireland MD, said: “We’re finding ways of improving our environmental performance through rigour, challenge and partnership. Step by step, we are decarbonising our customers’ supply chains.”

The department for transport has calculated that emissions reduce by between 8% and 9% when LSTs are used and it has also found that they are involved in 61% fewer personal injury collisions than conventional lorries.

At the end of last year the trial was extended until 29 February 2024, a move welcomed by the RHA which has said more time was required for members and the government to work on solutions to remove the onerous administration attached to running the vehicles.

 

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