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Transforming rail freight starts with smart wagon concepts
With the aim of initiating a ‘technological awakening’ for rail freight transport, Europe’s Rail conducted a number of technical demonstrators (TD).
One of those investigated smart freight wagon concepts.
Based on this research, the TD delivered 3 technologies that could help generate the frameworks and functional requirements needed to enable the development of track-friendly, low-weight, low-noise, and high-speed running gear.
Running Gear
TRL: 4 (technology validated in lab)
The running gear technology is comprised of wagon design and wheelset concepts and the evaluation of both acoustics and aerodynamic characteristics.
Key findings
• Using aluminium solutions reduces the weight of an empty wagon, leading to an increase in payload weight (900 kg).
• This feature improves current payload ratio by 13%.
• This payload increase would be also accompanied for by delivering better production costs, improving transport emissions, and decreasing maintenance requirements.
Who benefits
Final users
Railway operators
Suppliers
Core Market Wagon (CMW)
TRL: 7 (system prototype demonstration in an operational environment)
CMW is an effort to design a light and intelligent wagon for transporting goods requiring protection against weather conditions (e.g. powder snow) as well as lighter parts and less rolling noise.
Key findings
• Europe’s first covered wagon with sliding side walls has an increased volume of two square metres.
• Includes several sub-component optimisations that contribute to a greener and more efficient operation.
• The telematics and electrification systems enhance logistics capability and CBM concepts.
Who benefits
Final users
Railway operators
Suppliers
Extended Market Wagon (EMW)
TRL: 6 (technology demonstrated in a relevant environment)
The wagon incorporates many unique features and functions that should help make rail freight more attractive and competitive.
Key findings
• EMW offers a new production model aimed at intermodal rail freight and primarily targets the high value/low volume market.
• EMW offers a 13% increase in payload, a 10% reduction in energy consumption, and is designed to operate at a maximum speed of 140 KPH.
• The wagon is expected to deliver between a 40-50% improvement in the specific cost of transport per unit.
Who benefits
Final users
Railway operators