#2026/501UK amends testing rules for heavier zero-emission goods vehicles
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
The regulations bring certain zero-emission goods vehicles weighing more than 3,500 kg and up to 4,250 kg into the Class VII vehicle testing regime. This mainly affects operators of electric or other zero-emission vans and light goods vehicles whose higher weight is linked to zero-emission technology. Fleet operators, leasing companies, maintenance providers and testing centres should treat these vehicles as covered by the relevant goods vehicle testing rules rather than relying on the normal 3,500 kg cut-off. The text also updates related vehicle construction and use rules, including tyre-related provisions, to reflect the new zero-emission vehicle category.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Defines a zero-emission vehicle for the amended vehicle testing and construction rules
- Adds zero-emission N2 goods vehicles over 3,500 kg and up to 4,250 kg to Class VII testing
- Removes the standard testing exemption for zero-emission goods vehicles in that 3,500 kg to 4,250 kg weight band
Obligations
What this law requires
Treat zero-emission goods vehicles in EU category N2 with a design gross weight exceeding 3,500 kg and not exceeding 4,250 kg as Class VII goods vehicles for vehicle testing purposes.
Do not apply the normal exemption for vehicles over 3,500 kg to zero-emission vehicles with a design gross weight exceeding 3,500 kg and not exceeding 4,250 kg; these vehicles remain within the amended goods vehicle testing regime.
For classification and testing decisions, identify a zero-emission vehicle as one without an internal combustion engine or one with an internal combustion engine that emits zero grams of CO2 per kilometre.