The report assesses the operational effects of permitting approved types of lorry to operate at more than 32 tons gross weight, the maximum currently permitted in the united kingdom. Data from a survey of operators were grossed-up to estimate the number of heavier vehicles expected. The report assesses effects on total operating costs, average vehicle length, axle weights and road damage. It is estimated that, with the quantity of freight carried in 1977, the number of maximum weight vehicles could be reduced by up to 13 per cent over a 10 year period if heavier vehicles were permitted and that the total cost of operating the heaviest class of vehicles would be reduced by about 7 per cent. The corresponding change in estimated road damage ranges from an increase of 16 per cent to a reduction of 18 per cent depending on the types of vehicle permitted. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting