Fleet survey to shape EV payload policy
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has launched a survey of operators to help identify payload challenges for electric vehicle fleets, with the aim of securing key support from government.
The move follows an earlier survey on net zero. The followup initiative has been designed to examine battery electric vehicle (BEV) productivity and potential barriers to uptake resulting from reduced payload. The RHA says the survey gives operators the opportunity to help shape future regulations and guide the sector’s journey to decarbonisation.
As electric vehicle batteries are much heavier than diesel equivalents, the RHA explains, payload capacity is significantly less, pointing out that for many fleet operators – especially smaller companies facing increasing cost considerations – this entails operational and financial challenges.
The survey asks fleets to share operational data to help tackle these issues, including on payloads, stem distances, shift patterns and anticipated uptake of BEVs.
On its survey web page, the association says: “Following the RHA’s recent Net Zero Survey, HGV operators flagged that payload loss (for electric HGVs weighing 44 tonnes gvw where the 2-tonne derogation to accommodate heavier batteries does not apply) was a major concern preventing investment in these vehicles.
“Following your feedback, the RHA is determined to address this problem. To build a case for changing the relevant regulations governing vehicle weights and lengths, we need to evidence the extent and impact of the problem for HGV operators.
“By completing this survey, you will help us build that case and provide the required evidence for change that we can then put to the Department for Transport.”
RHA managing director Richard Smith commented: “We want to hear from operators across the country to ensure the government understands current BEV realities and practical barriers, and to ensure regulations incentivise and support a fair and viable transition towards net zero.”
The survey can be accessed here. The deadline for submissions is 5pm on Friday 31 October.
