Mansio aims for 44 tons total weight in encounter traffic

In encounter traffic, an increase in the permissible total weight from 40 t to 44 t is being pursued. For this, the logistics technology company MANSIO from Aachen is advocating with a white paper. In this document, the company demonstrates that comparable positive effects can be achieved in encounter traffic as in combined transport (KV). Nevertheless, the environmentally friendly transport concept is not equated with KV regarding the increased permissible total weight of 44 t.

(Aachen) The white paper addresses how the conditions for the inclusion of encounter traffic in the 44 t regulation can be created. The aim is to define encounter traffic as its own mode of transport and to establish clear standards and minimum criteria. Based on this and supported by digital evidence, authorities should be able to conduct simple checks, while freight forwarders, logistics service providers, and transport companies gain high legal certainty.

The time window for a legal definition of encounter traffic with an increased permissible total weight of 44 t is assessed as favorable in the white paper. The ongoing revision of Directive 96/53/EC and the focus of the current Danish EU Council Presidency allow for a clear, pragmatic addition.

MANSIO’s managing director, Dr. Maik Schürmeyer, sees the initiative as an opportunity for the logistics industry: “We are in a phase of upheaval in light of European emission targets. The EU’s willingness to reform is present, aiming to advance the green transformation. Zero-emission vehicles are also gaining importance in long-distance transport.”

Through encounter traffic, electric trucks can be more easily deployed in long-distance transport. Schürmeyer aims to further pave the way for electric trucks in long-distance transport: “An electric truck can be charged economically in its own depot during encounter traffic and then used very cost-effectively in a second shift. This is a real game-changer regarding the total cost of ownership.”

The principle of encounter traffic is based on the idea of transferring semi-trailers and swap bodies from truck to truck along long-distance routes. The vehicle and driver then return to their home regions. Since trucks in encounter traffic do not have to park for extended periods, they relieve parking infrastructure, make long-distance transport safer against cargo theft, and more attractive for driving personnel.

Utilizing encounter traffic more purposefully from an ecological perspective

“With an adjustment of the permissible total weight to 44 t, the payload increases by about 15 percent, assuming the vehicle weight remains the same. This allows the potential of encounter traffic to be utilized more purposefully from both ecological and economic perspectives. Another advantage is that the adjustment does not entail any additional tax expenditures or investments for the state,” explains Schürmeyer.

Photo: © MANSIO