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Consultation on alternatively fuelled vans is perfectly timed, says Logistics UK
Logistics UK has welcomed a consultation on alternatively fuelled vans (AFVs), announced by the Department for Transport (DfT) last week (9 August 2022).
The business group has said that the consultation, which is seeking views on potential changes to driving licence flexibility for AFVs, is particularly well timed given that an increasing number of van operators are looking to transition their fleets to cleaner power systems.
Currently there is a derogation for Category B licence holders to operate AFVs up to 4.25kg subject to an additional five hours of training, in order to allow for the extra weight of a cleaner power system such as an electric battery.
The consultation will consider whether to remove the additional training, reform the training requirement or leave the requirement as it is now. It will also consider views on whether the derogation should be expanded to include other vehicle types, what alternative fuel types should be eligible for the flexibility and whether towing with an AFV between 3,5000kg and 4,250kg up to 7,000kg maximum authorised mass should be allowed.
Denise Beedell, Public Policy Manager, Logistics UK, said: “More van operators than ever are looking to transition their fleets to cleaner power sources ahead of the 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vans. However, many remain concerned about a potential loss of payload, among other issues. That is why we are pleased that DfT has launched this consultation on alternatively fuelled vans at this point in time.
“We plan to engage closely with our members on this issue, before submitting a response ahead of the consultation deadline of 4 October 2022.”
*www.logistics.org.uk/van
Published On: 18/08/2022 16:00:37
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