The European Commission (EC) has proposed the introduction of a new lorry chassis that would both protect other road users in the case of an accident, as well as improving fuel efficiency for vehicles.

A new rounded nose cone has been put forward by officials in Brussels, with the change helping to boost fuel efficiency by up to five per cent for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), while also cutting air resistance by 12 per cent.

In addition, the rounded nose would help to ensure fewer injuries occur for HGVs – as while this type of vehicle makes up just three per cent of European traffic, it is involved in 18 per cent of all fatal crashes.

Transport & Environment (TE) policy officer at the EC William Todts, said: "European lorries have been stuck in the past and this is costing Europe billions of euros in wasted fuel. The proposal is a small step towards freight transport fit for the 21st century."

Following the announcement, the proposals have been welcomed by London's transport commissioner, the European Federation of Road Traffic Victims and TE.

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