New truck cab design rules looming in Europe

European politicians have backed changes to legislation governing the design of truck cabs, paving the way for more aerodynamic models

The European Parliament’s Transport Committee recently voted in favour of altering the legislation governing the design of trucks, in a move that could see European truck manufacturers adopt more streamlined, safer and ultimately less polluting models.

The new laws must first be approved by an upcoming plenary session of the European Parliament in April, but their approval is believed to be a mere formality. The specifics of the new laws will be determined later in the year once the laws have been considered by the EU’s member states.

The changes essentially provide additional design space at the front of the truck, with a longer nose delivering enhanced aerodynamics and a crumple zone to ensure pedestrians and cyclists are not drawn underneath the truck’s wheels in the event of a collision.

Although truck manufacturers are free to begin introducing new designs immediately, the EU wants the changes to be mandatory from 2022.

The enhanced aerodynamics afforded by the new design legislation will reduce fuel consumption, in turn cutting harmful emissions.

The changes could well mark the end of brick-shaped cabin, which has been perpetuated by the EU’s existing regulations governing truck cab dimensions, and open the door to designs similar to the MAN concept vehicle pictured.

According to William Todts, Clean Vehicles Officer at Transport & Environment (T&E), an independent body that seeks to influence EU transport policy, the changes are a victory for common sense.

“Today is a good day for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, hauliers and the environment,” he said.

“This vote brings the end of the brick-shaped cab closer. It’s a key decision that will reduce road deaths and kick-start progress on lorry carbon dioxide emissions after 20 years of stagnation.

“Giving lorry makers extra cab space in return for life-saving and fuel-efficient features is a no-brainer. Europe’s governments should not let vested interests trump common sense.”

In other European news, politicians have rejected a proposal to lift the current ban on the cross-border use of ‘gigaliners’ – trucks towing extra-long multi-trailer arrangements. Instead, the European Parliament has asked that the Transport Commission prepare a full investigation into the matter and report back by 2016.

New truck cab design rules looming in Europe

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