The National Transport Commission (NTC) has released an interactive map portal which allows truck drivers and operators to plan the journey of SMART trucks across the country.

The NTC website now displays the initial routes for SMART trucks in every state and territory on the map portal and allows users to zoom as far in as street level to see exactly where the SMART trucks can go.

 “As the mapping process expands, the new portal will allow operators to easily select the best route for moving their freight across the city, state or country,” said NTC Chief Executive Nick Dimopoulos.

“This will become a very valuable tool for the trucking industry and will enhance our ability to move towards a more nationally consistent and productive transport system.”

During a review of the Performance Based Standards (PBS) program in July 2009, it was revealed that many participants found it difficult to plan routes for their SMART vehicles across state/territory and local road networks, and the map portal aims to address this.

Access to the network remains dependent on approval of the vehicle design by the PBS panel and permits issued by states and territories.

The NTC is currently considering options for improving the access process for the PBS scheme in a Regulatory Impact Statement to be released for public consultation soon.

The map portal displays access as colour coded on the maps:

Level 1: roughly equivalent to General Access (everywhere), and limited to 20 metres long and 50.5 tonnes.

Level 2: roughly equivalent to B double routes

Level 3: roughly equivalent to Road Trains Type I

Level 4: roughly equivalent to Road Trains Type II

“The launch of the new portal represents a huge step forward for transport efficiency and as the network expands, will lead to more nationally consistent road network access,” said Mr Dimopoulos.

The new portal has the potential for overlaying details about rest stops, weighbridges, refuelling areas and other truck related information in the future.

“We look forward to continuing to update the maps with more routes for SMART trucks as they become available and working with state and territory and local governments to achieve this,” said Mr Dimopoulos.

To access the map portal, please CLICK HERE.

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What are Performance Based Standards (PBS)?

Performance Based Standards (PBS) offers the potential for heavy vehicle operators to achieve higher productivity and safety through innovative vehicle design. These gains are typically not available under conventional ‘one size fits all’ prescriptive mass and dimension rules or the state-based permit system.

PBS sets minimum vehicle ‘performance’ standards to ensure trucks are stable on the road and can turn and stop safely, and are tagged as ‘SMART’ trucks.

The NTC welcomes your comments and feedback on the new map portal. Please email pbsmaps@ntc.gov.au.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Eliza Stephens

NTC Communications Officer

Phone: 03 9236 5052