Last night, the European Parliament’s Transport Committee made significant progress by approving the start of interinstitutional negotiations of two important directives that are key priorities for NLA. One directive addresses maximum authorised dimensions and weights for road vehicles, while the other updates driving licence regulations. Both directives are essential to enable the road transport sector to be energy efficient while also tackling the driver shortage situation.
On the revision of the Weights and Dimensions Directive, NLA finds it very encouraging to see that the new European Parliament supports keeping the flexibility whereby high-capacity vehicles (HCVs) can operate between consenting countries. This is essential for the Nordic countries that allow circulation of vehicle combinations that drive with higher weights and dimensions both nationally and across borders in the Nordic countries. This will benefit road transport companies in the Nordics so they can continue carrying out energy efficient cross-border transports with fewer vehicles and drivers on the roads while reducing CO2 emissions per pallet transported.
NLA also welcomes that the new European Parliament support the introduction of an accompanied driving scheme for young drivers. Allowing individuals to begin their driving education at 17 will enable them to gain valuable on-road experience before obtaining their full licence. This initiative not only enhances the skills of young drivers but also addresses the critical issue of driver shortages in the transport sector.
The Parliament can now initiative negotiations with EU Member States to find a consensus on these proposals. NLA will follow this work closely and engage with EU stakeholders to address the key issues of road transport operators.
