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Written question asked by Joe Robertson (Conservative) on Friday, 5 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 June 2026 (named day). It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Large Goods Vehicles: Carbon Emissions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the proportion of zero-emission heavy goods vehicles on highways maintenance budgets, in the context of the fourth power law of road wear.

Answer

The Government recognises that heavier vehicles can accelerate road surface wear. While we have not undertaken a specific assessment of this effect, we are actively considering the implications of introducing zero-emission heavy goods vehicles, including the potential for additional road wear.

More widely, while EVs tend to be heavier than their equivalent petrol or diesel counterpart, on average all passenger cars have been increasing in weight for many years. It is the much heavier commercial vehicles, rather than passenger vehicles, that cause the most wear and tear to road surfaces and other highway structures.

To support the maintenance of local roads and highway networks, the Department is providing a record £7.3 billion over the next four years to local highway authorities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
7280
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Finance Large goods vehicles Carbon emissions Roads Repairs and maintenance
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk