Get prepared for 2025’s commercial vehicle legislation
As 2025 approaches, many operators, especially those from smaller businesses, may not fully realize the significant changes coming to commercial vehicle fleets. Understanding the upcoming 2025 fleet regulations and compliance requirements is essential. Staying informed will help operators avoid potential penalties.
Next year, both the UK and Europe will see major regulatory shifts. Businesses must decide which vehicles need retrofitting, which new vehicles to purchase, and how to finance these options.
Though these new standards may seem challenging, they provide an opportunity to rethink fleet strategies. Ensuring 2025 fleet regulations and compliance will help businesses stay ahead of future challenges.
Direct Vision Standard (DVS) 2
Many operators running HGVs in Greater London are familiar with the DVS standard. It became mandatory in March 2021 for all vehicles over 12 tonnes. In October 2024, a stricter version, DVS2, will be introduced. This update will require specific changes:
- The minimum star rating to operate HGVs in Greater London will rise from one to three stars. Vehicles below this rating must retrofit Progressive Safe System (PSS) sensors and cameras. Proof must be submitted to Transport for London.
- Blind spot sensors must be upgraded from side scan to a predictive radar system.
- A “Moving OFF” sensor system must be installed at the front of the vehicle.
- DVS visual warning stickers must increase in size from A4 to A3.
Operators may only need a few DVS2-compliant vehicles for London-based work. Assess your fleet to avoid unnecessary upgrades. In some cases, sourcing new vehicles with DVS2-compliant technology may be simpler than retrofitting. This ensures smooth 2025 fleet regulations and compliance.
General Safety Regulations (GSR)
In June 2024, the General Safety Regulations (GSR), an EU-wide rule, will come into effect. Though the UK isn’t required to follow these regulations, most HGVs are made in Europe. These vehicles will adhere to GSR standards.
UK operators sending vehicles to Europe must be mindful of GSR requirements. These rules could impact acquisition costs. GSR includes additional safety features beyond DVS:
- A drowsiness and attention detection system will monitor the driver’s alertness. It will alert the driver when it’s time for a break.
- Vehicles will need a standardized interface for alcohol interlocks (breathalyzers). This rule could eventually require drivers to pass a breathalyzer test before starting the vehicle.
Understanding these safety features is crucial for 2025 fleet regulations and compliance, especially for international work.
Clean Air and Low Emission Zones
More Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and Low Emission Zones (LEZ) will be enforced across the UK in 2025. Cities like Edinburgh, Dundee, and Aberdeen will end their two-year grace periods for LEZ compliance.
Operators need to ensure their fleets have access to Euro 6-compliant vehicles for projects in cities with strict air quality standards. Some fleets are supplementing with rental vehicles to meet these standards. Careful planning is vital to maintain 2025 fleet regulations and compliance.
The Euro 7 standard will also take effect in 2025. It will impact all vehicles driven in the UK. The EU Council may also introduce limits on non-exhaust emissions, like particles from brakes and tires. Other rules will focus on battery durability and stricter lifetime requirements for vehicles. These changes encourage the use of emission-monitoring tools and advanced technologies.
Preparing for the Future
With many overlapping changes ahead, early fleet analysis is essential. Businesses must decide which vehicles to upgrade or replace. In some cases, opting for a short-term or flexible solution may be more beneficial.
Proper planning will ensure that businesses have the right vehicle available when and where it’s needed. This approach helps avoid availability issues as regulations shift.
Although these new rules may seem daunting, they provide a chance to reassess fleet strategies. Innovation and forward planning can improve safety, protect against future shifts, and align fleet goals with broader business objectives. Complying with 2025 fleet regulations and compliance will set businesses up for long-term success.
Get in Touch
If you want to learn more or have any questions, contact us at 01274 597748 or email us at sales@satmo.co.uk. You can also explore more of our blog posts here: https://satmo.co.uk/blog/
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