In early 2026, the Government opened consultation proposed transport rule updates.
Drive Electric made a submission on Phase 2: Heavy Vehicle Productivity, focusing on Class 1 and Class 2 weight thresholds. We strongly support the proposed amendments to the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999. Specifically, Drive Electric supports:
Class 1 Licence Thresholds
Permanently enabling Class 1 holders to operate zero-emission vehicles up to 7,500kg, recognising the additional weight of batteries and reducing barriers for operators.
Class 2 and 2L Thresholds
Permanently enabling drivers to operate electric public transport buses up to 22,000kg, ensuring operational flexibility for the urban bus workforce.
Alongside these changes, Drive Electric’s submission highlights further strategic levers needed to support freight decarbonisation. These include:
Aligned Heavy Vehicle RUC Exemptions
Shifting from fixed dates to exemptions linked to uptake milestones.
Accelerated Depreciation Schedules
Supporting faster depreciation to account for rapid technological advancement and improve the total cost of ownership for the 174,000+ trucks essential to our economy.
These are practical changes that remove barriers and support the transition to cleaner transport.
Read Drive Electric’s full submission here.
Drive Electric regularly meets with and advises key political figures and decision-makers in the transport sector, submits advisory papers on e-mobility legislation, and contributes to government-led policy development groups — helping to shape Aotearoa’s transition to cleaner, smarter transport. Become a member, stay connected and be part of the journey.
