A major change to Australian design rules promises to be a “game changer” for Australia’s shift to electric freight transport.

The new rule announced by the federal government will allow wider trucks on Australian roads, bringing the country in line with overseas markets and removing one of the key barriers to local uptake of heavy duty electric trucks, as most overseas-built models were just a few centimetres too wide to meet Australia’s previous standards.

“This Safer Freight Vehicles package responds to direct calls from industry to increase the width limit of trucks and follows extensive public consultation and feedback,” said federal assistant minister for infrastructure and transport Carol Brown.

“These changes will be a real game changer for industry, businesses and other road users, as they will save lives by adopting technology to reduce the likelihood of crashes, while also lowering freight costs and supporting better environmental outcomes.”

The change increases the overall width limit from 2.50 to 2.55 metres for new trucks, as long as they are fitted with safety features such as side guards and devices to limit blind spots.

  • No1@aussie.zone
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    2
    ·
    edit-2
    1 year ago

    Bahahaahhaa!

    It’s true that Aussie widths are less than some other countries.

    But AFAICT these proposed rules are not limited to electric trucks. And don’t think just semis. SUVs, pickups.

    Get used to seeing diesel monster trucks rolling coal, and other emotional support vehicles become a lot more common.

    • kowcop@aussie.zone
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      1 year ago

      How about any SUV with huge towing mirrors permanently fitted and extended to their max?

  • fruitleatherpostcard@lemm.ee
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    2
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    1 year ago

    Seeing as how the majority of truck drivers here in Australia are complete aggro cunts, this should be marvellous as they’ll be able to destroy even more innocent drivers.

  • Prandom_returns@lemm.ee
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    0
    ·
    1 year ago

    Ah yes, the electrification of trucks. Where 1/3 of the cargo your hauling is your own batteries. Efficiency at its finest.