Britain’s roads were less congested due to a recent longer lorries trials, according to the Department for Transport (DfT).

By extending the trailers of 1,800 trucks by 15 per cent, compared to 13.6 metre vehicles, up to 90,000 lorry journeys were avoided, freeing up Britain’s increasingly overcrowded roads.

The scheme also improved the nation’s air quality, saving more than 3,000 tonnes of CO2 from being emitted. It is estimated that up to 6.58 million vehicle miles were avoided too.

There were road safety benefits too, with the new lorries involved in 70 per cent fewer collisions and casualties per kilometre compared to the average standard articulated lorry.

Longer lorries could save hauliers up to one in nine journeys, unlocking an economic benefit of around £33 million over the next 10 years, the DfT predicts.

Transport minister John Hayes considered the trial an all-round win, benefitting motorists, consumers and haulage firms.

“Lorries are the engine of our economy and this pilot scheme is helping hauliers deliver the day-to-day goods we need more efficiently,” he commented.

DfT will now meet with trade associations to investigate how the trial can involve more vehicles.