NZ Transport Agency is seeking operators for a trial allowing battery-electric heavy vehicles to exceed standard axle-load limits on approved routes.
The trial will run from December 2026 until June 2028, with expressions of interest closing on December 11.
Battery systems can make electric trucks heavier and place more weight over individual axles, even when their gross vehicle mass is similar to an equivalent diesel vehicle.
Some models therefore exceed limits under the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule and cannot legally operate on New Zealand roads without an exemption.
“This has created a barrier to the uptake of some electric heavy vehicles,” NZTA says.
Approved operators will receive a 12-month exemption allowing eligible vehicles to operate above standard axle-load limits on specified routes and under prescribed conditions.
Applications will be assessed against criteria including vehicle configuration, proposed routes, engineering assessments, operational suitability and data-sharing requirements.
“Throughout the trial, participating vehicles will be monitored using telematics and other operational data, while NZTA assesses the effects on roads, bridges, culverts and other infrastructure,” the agency says.
Eligible vehicles will be limited to battery-electric heavy vehicles where battery placement causes axle loads to exceed current limits.
Applicants must provide supporting vehicle, safety, compliance, engineering and operational information.
Data sharing will be compulsory. Participants must enter an arrangement with NZTA’s telematics provider, Transport Certification Australia, and share vehicle, operational and telematics data throughout the trial.
“This information will be used to evaluate vehicle performance, route utilisation, axle loading, operational feasibility, infrastructure impacts, compliance, safety and productivity outcomes,” NZTA says.
Operators will be responsible for all participation costs, including feasibility and route assessments, telematics installation and operation, asset assessments and meeting the trial’s conditions.
Exemptions may set maximum axle, axle-set and gross weight limits, along with tyre requirements, approved routes, operating restrictions, safety controls, incident reporting and monitoring obligations.
NZTA will be able to amend, suspend or revoke exemptions if required.
The agency says the trial is designed to provide decision-makers with reliable information about whether heavier electric trucks can be accommodated and what safeguards may be necessary.
It will also examine infrastructure impacts, cost recovery and how regulations could support productivity and transport decarbonisation while protecting the safety and long-term condition of the road network.
“The trial is an evidence-gathering exercise only. It does not guarantee any regulatory changes, exemptions or access rights beyond the trial period,” NZTA says.
Operators may apply to renew an exemption at the end of the trial, but the outcome will depend on its findings.
Transport Certification Australia and engineering consultancy Beca are partnering with NZTA on the project.
