This paper addresses the issues involved with undertaking a trial of B-Triples in Queensland to analyse the level and conditions of access for a combination. The correct balance between safety, infrastructure protection and productivity will also be determined. The suitability of the proposed B-Triple configurations is assessed through computer simulations and analysis. This analysis shows that there may be significant safety improvements and infrastructure protection benefits with a small impact on traffic and productivity improvements. One of the objectives of Queensland Transport is to encourage and facilitate improvements in efficiency and the use of safer vehicle combinations in the road transport industry. In return, expanded areas of operation for multi combination vehicles may be possible. With an increase in speed limits over that permitted for road trains with the equipment utilisation and productivity that is offered by improved performing vehicle combinations, the industry will soon identify with the strategic direction of the department and adapt their operations. (A)
Abstract