Introduction of a national weight limit to apply to 5 (or more) axle non-articulated (rigid) vehicles in
the EU body category N3.
Notification is being made regarding the introduction of technical regulations to set a maximum
authorised vehicle weight (MAVW) for 5 (or more) axle non-articulated (rigid) vehicles. The
technical regulations take the form of national secondary legislation (statutory instrument (S.I.)).
The draft regulations are aimed at implementing three initiatives relating to rigid goods-carrying
vehicles that comprise five (or more) axles. The regulations are aimed at vehicles that are EU body
category N3 and that are involved in national transport operations.
1. To introduce a MAVW of 36 tonne for rigid vehicles that have more than four axles, first
registered in the State on or after a specified date.
2. To require that, in the event of any modification being made to the number of axles of a rigid
vehicle, and where post-modification, the vehicle has more than four axles, the MAVW of the
relevant vehicle must be re-assessed and plated accordingly.
3. To require that a declaration of conformity (DoC) be produced that has been signed by the
Manufacturer or Authorised Distributor to confirm that the vehicle is fit for purpose. In the case of
vehicle modifications, the DoC must indicate that the modified vehicle is properly fitted with an
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)/Electronic Braking System (EBS) and air suspension system or
equivalent suspension system and that these systems are fully functional.