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In a matter of days, specific motorists will benefit from increased driving licence freedoms as new regulations are set to take effect in June. The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles has

revealed that drivers will be permitted to operate heavier vehicles under significant new plans. Those holding a Category B driving licence will be allowed to drive heavier electric cars and

hydrogen vehicles weighing up to 4,250kg. Currently, the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) for combustion vehicles stands at 3,500kg; however, the new rules will raise this weight limit.

Electric vehicles are typically heavier than their petrol and diesel counterparts due to the added weight of battery technology compared to fuel tanks, reports the Express. Explaining the

plans, the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles stated: "From 10 June, if you hold a category B driving licence, you can drive an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle with a maximum

authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg. The vehicle must be a zero-emission vehicle. "The normal MAM limit for petrol and diesel vehicles with a category B licence is 3,500kg. This

additional weight allowance will apply to vehicle types you can usually drive using a category B licence. These are vehicles designed for carrying up to 8 passengers and include cars, SUVs,

vans and small trucks." According to authorities, motorists will be allowed to drive vehicles with a MAM of up to 5,000kg if the vehicles are equipped with additional specialist

equipment to accommodate disabled passengers. However, the additional 750kg must be due to the specialist equipment installed for this purpose. In addition, the new regulations will permit

category B licence holders to operate an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to 4,250kg MAM. This can be increased to 5,000kg if the vehicle is equipped with extra specialist equipment

for disabled passengers. The updated rules will also enable individuals to tow a trailer provided the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg. Government officials

have confirmed that road users will not need to make any changes to their photocard driving licence to benefit from this entitlement. Nearly all road users possess a category B driving

licence as it is the one issued after passing a theory and practical test. Drivers will need to obtain a C1 or C1E provision if they wish to drive heavy vehicles such as lorries. Full list

of changes on June 10. FULL LIST OF DRIVING CHANGES ON JUNE 10 * Drivers can get behind the wheel of heavier electric and hydrogen vehicles with a weight of up to 4,250kg. * If the vehicle

has additional specialist equipment to support disabled passengers, it can have a MAM of up to 5,000kg. * You can also drive an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to 4,250kg MAM. * You

will be able to tow a trailer as long as the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg.