The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released a new PBS Vehicle Configurations chart showing 32 common combinations approved under the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto launched the chart as well as a new booklet PBS – A guide for road managers.
“Heavy vehicles approved under the PBS scheme are continuing to use newer technology and safety features and it’s crucial that those who are making decisions about network access understand the benefits of these high-tech innovations,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“PBS-approved heavy vehicles will make up almost one in five new vehicles built in Australia this year and are now a significant part of Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet.
“The material provides road managers with robust and detailed information about the PBS approval process and the type of safety features that are common. It will assist them to make informed decisions about which vehicles can safely access their local roads, intersections and bridges.”
The PBS – A guide for road managers complements the chart, providing more detailed information and examples to assist road managers better understand the benefits of PBS vehicles on the road network.
Mr Petroccitto said there were 16,000 separate PBS-registered trucks, trailer and buses that make up the 7,000 PBS-approved combinations in Australia.
“PBS combinations are usually designed for a specific task,” he said.
“They are innovation leaders across our fleet, reducing heavy vehicle accidents, the number of trips and impact on roads and bridges.
“The complexity of PBS access permit applications can cause delays in the decision making process, so it’s important that we continue to provide road managers with information.”
The chart PBS Vehicle Configurations and the booklet PBS – A guide for road managers are available at www.nhvr.gov.au/publications