Konferens: HVTT12: International Symposium on Heavy Vehicle Transport Technology, 2012, Stockholm

As in many jurisdictions there has, in New Zealand, been a strong lobby by road transport stakeholders for increases in the size and weight limits on heavy trucks to provide increased efficiency and productivity. In 2010 the government introduced an amendment to the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass (VDAM) Rule which provided for larger and heavier vehicles to be used on roads that could accommodate them. These vehicles, which are called High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs), operate under permit. To reduce compliance costs and facilitate the uptake of these vehicles, the New Zealand Transport Agency promoted the development of a series of “pro-forma” designs. These designs are combination vehicles that are longer than the standard vehicles but have a restricted envelope of dimensions that ensures that they can meet the performance criteria. Pro-forma vehicles have general access at standard weights and can operate at higher weights on approved routes. Currently about 1000 HPMVs have been approved.