TfL removes interim Direct Vision Standard ratings

By Categories: NewsPublished On: Thursday 9 November 2017

The interim star ratings for some Euro 6 trucks that were released by Transport for London (TfL) in September for its HGV Direct Vision Standard (DVS) have now been removed from the authority’s website, “to avoid any confusion” following “some technical issues” with the ratings.

The system has been designed to gauge the level of direct vision available to drivers from the cab of each HGV model, in a bid to improve safety for other road users in the capital by limiting access to London for vehicles offering poorer direct vision.

The ratings released were not final, and had been intended to be subject to consultation with stakeholders. Since our October edition closed for press, some of the ratings that we published on page 5 for particular cab dimensions of certain truck models had been subject to minor revisions on TfL’s website, while some new ratings had also been added.

Transport Operator had intended to make operators aware of the new and amended ratings in our November/December issue. Since then, however, the online lookup tool which contained the interim ratings has been removed altogether.

“Our first consultation on the Direct Vision Standard gathered important information to inform our proposals and create interim star ratings,” a TfL spokesperson told us on 9 November.

“Working with an expert panel of vehicle manufacturers, regulatory bodies and academics, we have identified some technical issues with these interim star ratings. To avoid any confusion for the wider industry, the interim ratings have been removed while this important work takes place.

“Among other things, the next DVS consultation, due later this month, will look for feedback on the way these star rating boundaries have been set.

“Industry views have helped shape the proposals and this consultation will include plans for an HGV safety permit scheme based on the DVS ratings, and a safe system approach, which includes industry-recognised measures to reduce road danger.”