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The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and South Australia Police have commenced an investigation into allegations about the remapping of truck engines throughout Australia.
NHVR Director of Investigations Steve Underwood said that remapping allows emissions controls and speed limiters on heavy vehicles to be modified.
“Remapping engines allows trucks to exceed the speed limit unimpeded, endangering all other road users,” Mr Underwood said.
“These are very serious allegations and we are concerned about how widespread this practice may be.
“This operation commenced after police intercepted a number of heavy vehicles in South Australia that were found to have had their engines modified.
“On 15 October 2019, search warrants were executed at a business premises and a private dwelling in Victoria. Information, documents and other evidence obtained from these premises are currently being analysed.
“This investigation involves Police agencies from South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland as well as NHVR investigators from Brisbane and Adelaide and VicRoads officers.
“This level of cooperation speaks to the complexity and seriousness of these allegations.
“If anyone has information concerning the remapping of truck engines they should contact our Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line (HVCRL) urgently on 1800 931 785.
“This is a timely reminder to all parties in the heavy vehicle supply chain to ensure they take all steps reasonably practicable to ensure they comply with their safety duties to eliminate or minimise public risk.”
Operators, Executive officers and companies who modify vehicle engines may encourage drivers to speed in direct contravention of their safety duties under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. Penalties for these serious criminal offences are up to 5 years imprisonment for an individual and up to $3 000 000 in fines for a company.
The HVCRL’s operating hours are 7am-4.30pm (AEST) Monday to Friday. Calls are free from any landline in Australia and some mobile providers.