Using leading technology and innovation, the Trial will test weight compliance technologies with the aim of identifying those which perform best to detect weight non-compliant heavy vehicles. Results from this Trial will inform the Transport Agency's planned Weigh Right Programme, which has the goal of extending and improving vehicle weight compliance on our road network.
NZ Transport Agency National Manager Operations, Kate Styles says we are undertaking this Trial and the wider programme for several reasons.
“Firstly it will help the Transport Agency achieve smarter regulation and safer journeys, and secondly, it will create a level playing field for commercial heavy vehicle operators,” she says.
Mrs Styles says that in planning for this Trial, the Transport Agency has considered viable technologies and has selected a robust combination to take to trial.
“The Trial will test vehicle identification, in-road vehicle weighing (weigh-in-motion), and information system technologies. It will also take into account relevant heavy vehicle permits and the Vehicle Dimension and Mass Rule 2016,” she says.
The Trial is only focusing on testing technology for weight non-compliance.
Mrs Styles says that the Transport Agency intends to do thorough in-house testing of the technology before enabling on-site testing.
“During the onsite testing, heavy vehicles that are weight compliant will be able to continue on their journey, whereas heavy vehicles who register as weight non-compliant will be directed into the Glasnevin weigh station, for further inspection and appropriate compliance activity.” says Mrs Styles.
The Trial is supported by the New Zealand Police Commercial Vehicle Investigation Unit (CVIU) who will be the main user of the Trial technology.
At the end of the Trial the Transport Agency will evaluate the results to inform the design and national roll out of the Weigh Right Programme.
Trial Facts
- The Trial is testing heavy vehicle weight compliance technologies.
- The Trial will start in November and is planned to run for six to eight months. There will be a mix of in-house and onsite testing. There will be thorough in-house testing of the technology before enabling onsite testing.
- During onsite testing, heavy vehicles that are weight compliant will be able to continue on their journey, whereas heavy vehicles that register as weight non-compliant will be directed into the weigh station for further inspection and appropriate compliance activity.
- The Trial will take into account relevant heavy vehicle permits and the Vehicle Dimension and Mass Rule 2016.
- The Weigh Right Trial is supported by the NZ Police Commercial Vehicle Investigation Unit (CVIU) which will use the trial technology to target weight non-compliant heavy vehicles.
- The Trial will use Glasnevin Weight Enforcement Site on State Highway 1 in North Canterbury, operated by CVIU Christchurch.
- The Transport Agency will evaluate the Trial results to inform the design and roll out of the Weigh Right Programme.
- For further information please visit www.nzta.govt.nz/weigh-right-trial or email: weightrighttrial@nzta.govt.nz
