The two organisations reiterated the need to permit the wider use of fuel-saving technologies, rather than relying solely on additional aerodynamic performance improvements.

They added that this framework has been developed following the obligation in the European Commission proposal that any increase in vehicle length, including of the vehicle cab, would have to include aerodynamic, safety and comfort improvements. The current form of these various obligations could be very difficult to reconcile.

IRU general delegate to the EU, Michael Nielsen, said: ‘The final agreement on weights and dimensions must allow road freight transport operators to further reduce fuel consumption, improve efficiency, comfort and safety with as few restrictions as possible. I urge European decision-makers to reach an agreement that ensures the benefits we all wish to see are realised.’

ACEA secretary general Erik Jonnaert added: ‘There are many more effective ways of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than entirely redesigning the cabin. The industry is committed to continuing to improve truck safety. However, for this, safety technologies that prevent accidents happening in the first place are the best way forward. A whole vehicle approach represents the best possible solution.’

The two organisations added that road transport will continue to play a key role in a resource-efficient and sustainable transport system. Therefore, enabling innovation and progress in road transport is essential to achieving the objectives of the 2011 EU Transport Policy White Paper.