In the direction of increasing the permissible maximum weight to 4.25 tons

This Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the members of the European Parliament studied a reform of the European driving license rules, in order to increase road safety. If the most controversial measure, a mandatory medical examination to preserve rights, was rejected by 323 votes against 270 votes in favor, some other measures were adopted by the European deputies.
One of the measures has been long-awaited and applies to motorhome users: the actual maximum weight (GVWR or MMTA) of the vehicle you can drive today B permit is 3.5 tons, which is not without problems when looking for the vehicle of your dreams.
Furthermore, in a context where European authorities want to force us to drive only 100% electric vehicles, this maximum weight limit of 3.5 tonnes is a brake on the development of electric houses on wheelsdue to the heavy weight of their traction battery.

More motorhomes are available with a B license

Therefore, the members of the European Parliament have just spoken in favor of a an increase in the maximum permissible mass (MMTA or GVWR) a a roadworthy vehicle with a B license weighing 4.25 tonnes : the only prerequisite, to be holder of license B for at least two years. This change will apply motor homes and recreational vehiclesas well as certain technical vehicles, such as ambulances, designed to carry passengers with a maximum capacity of 8 seats, excluding the driver, regardless of engine.
These vehicles can also be equipped with a trailer or semi-trailer, if the maximum authorized mass of this composition does not exceed 5 tons. For other types of vehicles, the increase in the permissible maximum mass is due to the presence of an engine that uses “alternative fuel”.
This new provision is good news for recreational vehicle enthusiasts as well as manufacturers who will have more freedom to configure their motor homes. The former will be able to add more on-board equipment or choose more generous models, while the latter will finally be able to devote themselves to the development of electric motorhomes.

The final version of this driving license reform will still be subject to debate and will be finally adopted by the new parliament after the elections in June 2024.

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