Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2018
499. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a matter in regard to truck weight (details supplied) will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46814/18]
View answerUnder the Road Traffic (Construction and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 5 of 2003), the upper weight limit for 5 axle (2 axle tractor unit towing a 3 axle semi-trailer) articulated vehicle is 40 tonnes, provided that the tractor unit is equipped with an air suspension system or an equivalent system on the driving axle, ABS brakes and a plate complying with the requirements of the Regulations.
A 6 axle (3 axle tractor unit towing a 3 axle semi-trailer) articulated vehicle can operate over 40 tonnes under the following conditions:
1. A maximum laden weight of 44 tonnes (5.5 tonnes/metre) for a 3-axle tractor unit with twin tyres, air suspension or an equivalent suspension on each driving axle and ABS brakes, in combination with a 3-axle semi-trailer that has air suspension or an equivalent suspension and ABS brakes. The vehicle combination must also be fitted with plates complying with the requirements of the Regulations.
2. Since 1st April 2013 a 3-axle tractor unit towing a 3-axle semi-trailer may operate at a gross combination weight of 46 tonnes (5.75 tonnes/metre). However, in addition to satisfying the requirements of point (1) above; they must also satisfy the following additional criteria in order to be allowed to operate as part of a 46 tonne combination:
1. Tractor units and semi-trailers already in service on 1st April 2013 require Electronic Braking Systems (EBS). Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) are not sufficient;
2. New tractor units first registered on or after 1st April 2013 in addition to requiring EBS need Vehicle Stability Function (VSF) which is more commonly known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC); and
3. Semi-trailers first licensed on or after 1st April 2013 in addition to requiring EBS require roll stability control.
