UK introduces longer semi-trailers

Longer lorries have been introduced to UK roads to deliver on the Government’s priority to grow the economy, boost productivity, slash road emissions, and support supply chains.

The longer lorries will be able to transport fast-moving consumer goods and retail products, as well as waste packaging, parcels and pallets.

A Longer Semi-Trailer (LST) is an extra-long semi-trailer, able to be towed by a lorry, measuring up to 2.05 metres longer than a standard semi-trailer.

As part of efforts to grow the economy and cut emissions, the British Government is changing the regulations to allow longer trailers on roads there, which it estimates will save 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere over 11 years.

The move follows an 11-year trial to ensure they are used safely on roads, and operators will be encouraged to put extra safety checks and training in place.

The trial showed that LSTs were involved in around 61 per cent fewer personal injury collisions than conventional lorries.