Within days some motorists are set to enjoy new freedoms on their driving licences. A number of new rules will come into effect which will mean drivers will have more rights over what vehicles they can get behind the wheel of.
One key new rule coming into effect will allow those who hold a category B licence to drive heavier electric or hydrogen-fuelled cars, vans and small trucks that have a maximum weight of up to 4,250kg. At present, the maximum weight for combustion vehicles under these licences is 3,500kg however, due to batteries being heavier than fuel tanks, electric vehicles tend to be heavier than those powered by petrol or diesel.
Explaining the updates, the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles stated: “From 10 June, if you hold a category B driving licence, you can drive an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg. The vehicle must be a zero-emission vehicle.
“The normal MAM limit for petrol and diesel vehicles with a category B licence is 3,500kg. This additional weight allowance will apply to vehicle types you can usually drive using a category B licence. These are vehicles designed for carrying up to 8 passengers and include cars, SUVs, vans and small trucks.”
In cases where vehicles are modified to include equipment to help disabled passengers, their permissible weight is set to increase to a maximum of 5,000kg. However, the additional 750kg must be directly related to the specialist equipment installed for this purpose, reports the Express.
In addition, the new regulations will permit category B licence holders to operate an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of 4,250kg. This limit can be increased to 5,000kg if the vehicle is equipped with extra specialist equipment for disabled passengers.
The updated rules will also enable drivers to tow a trailer provided the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg. Government officials have confirmed that road users will not need to make any changes to their photocard driving licence to benefit from these entitlements.
Nearly all motorists hold a category B driving licence, which is issued after passing a theory and practical test. Drivers wishing to operate heavy vehicles such as lorries will need to obtain a C1 or C1E provision.
Full list of changes on June 10
- Motorists can drive heavier electric and hydrogen vehicles with a weight of up to 4,250kg
- Vehicle with additional specialist equipment to support disabled passengers, can be driven with a MAM of up to 5,000kg
- Drivers can get behind the wheel of an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to 4,250kg MAM
- Motorists can tow a trailer as long as the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg
