The growing popularity of 50MAX trucks is set to receive a further boost, following two major technological advances that will assist those operating these safer and more efficient combinations.
The two innovations, a zoomable online map and an electronic permit application form, underline the NZ Transport Agency’s commitment to moving more freight on fewer trucks, as well as putting customers at the heart of its business.
The introduction of a zoomable online map for 50MAX, in particular, is seen as a major improvement for operators. Grant Foster, the NZ Transport Agency’s Principal Project Manager - Business Improvement, explains the new online map is a specific response to feedback from operators who found the initial mapping provisions a bit cumbersome.
“The maps we had up on the 50MAX website were PDFs, which basically means a fixed sized map that you can print out,” Grant says. “The message from operators was that they wanted a map that they could zoom in on, to make it easier to find out exactly which structures are not suitable for 50MAX traffic and where they are on the network.”
The new online map went online in mid-May, and Grant says with many operators carrying tablet devices or smart phones, this is now the most convenient and sensible option to plan a 50MAX travel route. The new map will make it easier to pre-plan routes before taking the load, and regularly check routes that will change over time.
The second innovation benefits anyone who is applying for a 50MAX permit, be they an operator or a vehicle or trailer manufacturer. With permit numbers for the new generation of truck now nearing one thousand, applicants should be pleased with the new online application form. Introduced at the beginning of March, the new online form makes it easier to send the application and the required attachments to the Agency, for operators and manufacturers who seek permission to travel New Zealand’s roads in 50MAX trucks.
“Applications for 50MAX permits are usually turned around with 48 hours, so having an electronic application process that identifies potential errors and confirms the application has been received,, will make the whole process easier for those who apply, and us as processors of the application. It will make everything run even more smoothly,” Grant says.
Grant expects the 50MAX developments will show the way for other NZ Transport Agency permitting processes, particularly in the freight transport area. “We really are moving forward in terms of optimising freight, and I think the lessons we are learning here with the 50MAX roll-out will be extremely useful as we review our other processes, such as permitting for other high productivity motor vehicles (HPMVs).”
“All this will help to make road freight transport more efficient and safer for New Zealand. We have very high safety standards for 50MAX and other HPMVs, including increased resistance to rollover and the inclusion of electronic braking systems. And we are particularly pleased that quite a number of operators are also investing in additional safety measures, such as speed limiting, GPS monitoring, weight load cells and Electronic Stability Control.”
For more information on 50MAX, please visit www.nzta.govt/50MAX(external link)
Principal Project Manager – Business Improvement, Grant Foster
Geospatial Analyst Carla Coelho, based in the NZ Transport Agency’s National Office in Wellington, is part of the team that developed the electronic 50MAX Map
