The EU Environment Committee has voted in favour of proposed legislation to limit the speed of new vans, with effect from 1 January 2014
THE top speed of vans could be restricted if new proposals approved by the European Union are accepted by member states.
The European Parliament’s Environment Committee recently voted to limit the speed of new vans to 75mph (120kph), with effect from 1 January 2014.
a decrease in speed from 80mph to 70mph will increase efficiency by roughly 30%
The directive will need to be sanctioned by member states before it can be enacted. Not all van drivers will like the move, but if accepted, it could help cut van operating costs and reduce emissions.
According to data prepared for the Department of Transport by the Transport Research Laboratory, a decrease in speed from 80mph to 70mph will increase efficiency by roughly 30%, depending on the vehicle.
If enacted, the legislation would also cap new van CO2 emissions to between 105g and 120g/km from 2025.
But MEPs have rejected a Commission proposal (reported here in Business Vans) to introduce periodic roadworthiness tests (like the MOT) for light trailers, but voted in favour of testing light caravan trailers.
Individual member states may require testing of trailers under 2000kg if they so chose.
Click here to read more on the law and van speed limits.
this is the thin end of the wedge, well, the middle actually!! First, speed restrictors on lorries, now vans, next will be cars