Improving accessibility and efficiency in land transport
The Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999 has introduced a significant update with the release of the Drivers of Electric Trucks (up to 7,500kgs) Exemption Notice 2025. This new regulation provides a class exemption allowing holders of a full Class 1 driver licence to operate electric trucks with a gross laden weight (GLW) between 6,000kg and 7,500kg, surpassing the traditional weight limit of 6,000kg for Class 1 licences. This change addresses the unique challenge posed by the increased weight of electric vehicles (EVs) due to their battery systems, enabling greater adoption of electric trucks without additional licensure requirements.
The rationale behind the exemption – addressing weight challenges for BEVs
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) designed as replacements for trucks under 6,000kg diesel equivalents often exceed the weight limit due to their heavy battery systems. Without this exemption, Class 1 drivers would have been required to upgrade to a Class 2 licence to operate these vehicles, creating a significant barrier to their widespread use. The exemption aims to resolve this issue while preserving safety standards.
Positive impacts on efficiency and decarbonisation
This regulatory relief is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the land transport system in several ways. Importantly, the exemption reduces regulatory burdens and associated costs, such as the need for Class 2 licensure and training, while incentivising businesses to replace diesel trucks with their battery-powered equivalents. This supports decarbonization efforts and aligns with sustainability goals in the transportation sector.
Safety Considerations
Safety remains a priority under this exemption. Battery placement, which lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, improves stability compared to traditional diesel trucks of similar dimensions. Moreover, the electric trucks approved under this exemption must adhere to strict safety requirements, including maintaining diesel-equivalent braking systems, integrated battery systems within the chassis, and additional safety enhancements. Although slightly heavier vehicles may increase the severity of crashes, the overall risk is assessed as minimal and justified by the broader benefits.
Temporary implementation to guide future policy
This exemption is designed as a temporary measure valid for two years, during which the government will monitor its impacts on the adoption of BEVs, road safety, and broader transport system efficiency. This trial period will allow stakeholders to assess how effectively the exemption addresses current barriers to BEV adoption and inform future adjustments to licensing regulations as the demand for BEVs grows.
The introduction of the Class Exemption for Electric Trucks offers a pragmatic solution to the challenges posed by heavier BEVs in the land transport system. By simplifying access for Class 1 licence holders, the exemption aims to accelerate the shift toward sustainable transport options while maintaining safety and reducing compliance costs. This temporary policy change marks an important step toward integrating more electric vehicles into the commercial transport sector, paving the way for further advancements in decarbonization and efficiency.
