Longer lorries trial saves 3,000 tonnes of CO2

A trial that saw longer lorries used on British roads is expected to have saved over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 while reducing congestion.

Around 1,800 lorries were involved in the scheme, which has saved around 90,000 journeys and cut up to 10.6 million vehicle kilometres.

The economic benefits are estimated at at £33 million over the next 10 years, with British hauliers saving up to one in nine journeys with lorries that are up to 15 per cent longer than standard 13.60 metre vehicles.

Despite the increased length, the lorries still meet existing manoeuvrability requirements and maximum weight limit of 44 tonnes for 6-axle vehicles.

Transport Minister John Hayes said: “Lorries are the engine of our economy and this pilot scheme is helping hauliers deliver the day-to-day goods we need more efficiently.

“This is good news for consumers, a boost for motorists as it is helping cut congestion with fewer vehicles on the road and it is also helping the environment.”