RHA calls on industry to shape electric vehicle payload policy

Association launches operator survey to tackle payload challenges and secure vital government support

Following its recent Net Zero Survey, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has launched a follow up initiative to further examine Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) productivity and payload challenges. This new survey gives businesses a chance to help shape future rules and support that will guide the industry's decarbonisation journey.

RHA Managing Director, Richard Smith said:

"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."

As electric vehicle batteries are much heavier than diesel equivalents, payload capacity is significantly less. For many companies, especially smaller firms with increasing cost considerations, this creates operational and financial challenges.

The results of this survey will provide further insight into current operational realities and barriers to EV adoption. The results will also inform industry efforts to secure changes to vehicle weight and length regulations, and ensure switching to zero emission vehicles is viable for businesses of all sizes.

The RHA is calling on all commercial vehicle operators to take part and share information about their operations.

For more information and to participate, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RHA-ElectricHGVpayloadlosssurvey-RHAwebsite

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

• The survey specifically examines payload, productivity, and incentivisation challenges

• Operators are asked to share operational data including payloads, stem distances, shift patterns, and anticipated BEV uptake

• The survey aims to inform regulatory reforms on vehicle weights and lengths