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Irish haulier Reynolds Logistics says a decision is imminent on its application to the Irish government to allow it to run its version of a longer, heavier vehicle (LHV). The petrochemical transporter revealed its suggestion for a 'more-efficient vehicle' (MEV) last spring, which involves a Euro-5 Mercedes-Benz 10m rigid pulling a 13.6m semi-trailer, interlinked by a two-axle dolly.

"We've been to Germany and met Prof Hans-Christian  Pflug of Daimler AG to see the eco-combi vehicle and the engineering side of things is solid," chairman Joe Reynolds tells MT. "Our application to the government is for a permit to run three MEVs for two years on a set route between Dublin Port and Dublin airport, via the port tunnel."

If the application is successful, the running of the three vehicles on that route will save the firm 4,000 lorry movements a year. Although Reynolds isn't complacent about a positive outcome, he tells MT that the application "hasn't received any serious objections". He explains: "We have engaged with all the key stakeholders from the beginning and there is likely to be one more meeting with the likes of the National Roads Authority, the local council, the tunnel operator, and the Garda.

"The environmental argument is very strong, and I'm hopeful of a decision within a couple of months." Meanwhile, Reynolds has purchased  18 new Euro-5 vehicles off the back of a three-year contract award from BP for distribution of its lubricant in the UK.