New braking standard for PBS vehicles

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released details about upcoming changes to the Directional Stability Under Braking (DSUB).

The changes, coming into effect on July 1, 2026 will apply to newly built vehicles and existing in-service vehicles entering PBS for the first time.

“The Directional Stability Under Braking (DSUB) standard is being updated to modernise braking requirements under the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme,” said the NHVR.

“Vehicles that were PBS-approved prior to 1 July 2026 are unaffected, except for limited connectivity requirements when operated in combinations with DSUB-compliant vehicles.

“The revised DSUB standard will improve safety outcomes by increasing the use of advanced braking and stability technologies.

The new braking standard does not apply even if you re-certify or add that vehicle to a new or existing PBS Vehicle Approval (VA) after 1 July 2026.”

The changes mean that first-time PBS trailers and dollies must meet the revised DSUB requirements, including the fitment of Trailer EBS with full roll stability functionality.

Under the revised DSUB standard, load proportioning valves (LPVs) will not be permitted.

For further information, click here. The NHVR will also be holding an introductory webinar on Tuesday February 3, at 10am (AEST). To register, click here.