DfT predicts growth in van and truck traffic

HGV traffic is forecast to increase 14% by 2025, while LCV traffic is expected to grow by a staggering 63%.

The DfT's Road Transport Forecasts 2008 reveals that HGV traffic (km travelled per vehicle) is expected to fall 1% next year (2010) compared with 2003 (the base year for the report's calculations), before increasing by 6% in 2015 and then 14% in 2025. By the final date, the greatest traffic growth is expected in rural areas (16%) and on motorways (17%).

LCV traffic is forecast to grow 11% next year, 32% by 2015 and 63% by 2025. By the final date, the greatest traffic growth will be on motorways (64%).

The report acknowledges the limited impact of high fuel prices on traffic levels: "A doubling in oil prices raises pump prices by less than 30%, and this reduces traffic in 2025 by about 4%."

The report states that the government will outline its policies and proposals to meet CO2 reduction targets this summer. It also notes that the use of hard-shoulder running increases CO2 emissions due to the higher speeds being achieved, while active traffic management reduces emissions.