Optimising road transport: the Weights and Dimensions Directive revision

The European Commission's proposed revision of the Weights and Dimensions Directive is a positive step towards enhancing road transport efficiency and reducing emissions in the EU. The directive sets maximum dimensions for heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) and seeks to align them with emissions reduction goals, promote zero-emission technologies, streamline intermodal operations and better enforcement. To improve the proposal, the Commission should remove all references to the end of internal combustion engine (ICE) technology and maintain a technology-neutral approach. In addition, the revision should allow for the proposed trials involving longer and heavier vehicles to be extended beyond five years.