AN INCREASING NUMBER of bus and coach applications to have rear-wheel modifications approved has warranted their inclusion in industry feedback on a draft code to allow more Approved Vehicle Examiners (AVEs) to do so, according to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
As announced recently, the NHVR has opened consultation on a new modification code to fit non-standard rear-wheel components on heavy vehicles.
NHVR Vehicle Safety and Performance manager Peter Austin said the new code (D3) would allow certification of some common modifications to heavy vehicle rear tyres and rims by Approved Vehicle Examiners (AVEs) rather than requiring approval from the NHVR.
Speaking to ABC magazine, Peter Austin, NHVR Vehicle Safety and Performance manager, said: “While most rear-wheel modifications are made to trucks, we are seeing a growing number of rear-wheel modifications to buses, particularly those carrying tourists in an off-road or beach environment.”
“The number of modifications that require NHVR approvals have been increasing since 2014, with rear-wheel modifications – such as dual-to-single conversions and changes of tyre diameter and rim offset – being the most common,” Austin explained.
“As common technical requirements have now been developed, it is time to transfer this type of modification to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 – Heavy Vehicle Modifications – and allow certification by qualified AVEs.
“We’re continuing to look at ways we can cut red tape and improve the efficiency of vehicle modifications.”
HAVE YOUR SAY
The NHVR anticipates this process will halve the number of modification approvals issued in 2018/2019.
The new code was developed by the NHVR in consultation with state and territory governments and AVEs that commonly undertake this modification – but the NHVR is now seeking input from the broader bus, coach, truck and commercial vehicle industries.
The draft D3 modification code and required AVE qualification recommendation will be open for feedback until August 25.
Feedback can be provided by completing the forms on www.nhvr.gov.au/vsb6 and submitting it to VSB6SIWG@nhvr.gov.au
Photography: Cristian Brunelli