Thematic Research Summary: Freight transport...2015/04/30 · ICARGO (Intelligent Cargo in Efficient and Sustainable Global Logistics Operations, FP7, 2011 –is adva2015)ncing and

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Freight transportThematic Research Summary

Disclaimer

This publication was produced by the Transport Research and Innovation Portal (TRIP) consortium for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE). The brochure was compiled by Menno Langeveld (Panteia). The project team wishes to thank Helen West for reviewing the document. LEGAL NOTICE: The views expressed in this publication are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission. Neither the European Commission nor any person acting on behalf of the Commission is responsible for the use that might be made of the following information. Additional information on transport research programmes and related projects is available on the Transport Research and Innovation Portal website at www.transport-research.info. © European Union, 2014 Cover: © INE/MIgalski. Reproduction is authorised provided the source is acknowledged.

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Table of Contents

Preface .......................................................................................... 3

1. Introduction ............................................................................ 5

2. Sub-Theme: Logistics and supply chain management ............. 7

Advanced logistics systems ...................................................................... 7

Sustainable freight transport .................................................................... 9

3. Sub-Theme: Intermodal transport ......................................... 12

Advanced intermodal systems ................................................................ 12

Intermodal planning ............................................................................... 15

Secure Intermodal Transport .................................................................. 17

4. Sub-Theme: Urban freight transport ..................................... 18

City logistics ........................................................................................... 18

Clean technology .................................................................................... 20

5. Future Challenges for Research Policy .................................. 22

Bibliography ................................................................................ 23

Glossary ....................................................................................... 24

ANNEX: Projects by Sub-Theme ................................................... 25

Thematic Research Summary: Freight transport | Page 3 of 31

Preface

This Thematic Research Summary (TRS) has been produced as a part of the activities of

the Transport Research and Innovation Portal (TRIP). TRIP collects, structures, analyses

and disseminates the results of EU-supported transport research and research financed

nationally in the European Research Area (ERA), and selected global research

programmes. The main dissemination tool used by TRIP is the public web portal

www.transport-research.info.

The Thematic Research Summaries provide a structured guide to the results of research

projects carried out mainly at EU level, either as part of a framework programme or as a

study commissioned by the European Commission (EC). These summaries are intended

for policy makers at European, national and local levels, stakeholders and researchers.

The Thematic Research Summary on Freight transport is one of 24 themes, which

provides:

• an overview of research activities in a specific aspect of transport focusing on EU-

funded projects;

• analysis and compilation of research findings and recommendations.

An overview of the Thematic Research Summaries is presented in Table 1 on the next

page.



Table 1: Transport themes used in TRIP

Domains TRIP Themes

Sector Passenger transport

Freight transport

Mode Air transport

Rail transport

Road transport

Urban transport

Water transport (sea and inland)

Multimodal transport

Policy Financing, pricing and taxation

Regulation, competition and public services

Infrastructure and TEN-T

Land use and transport planning

Climate policy and energy efficiency

Security and safety

International cooperation and EU Neighbourhood Policy

Awareness, information and user rights

Technology Intelligent transport systems

Innovative technologies

Transport management

Evaluation Long-term perspectives

Assessment and decision support methodologies

Environmental impacts

Economic and regional impacts

Accessibility, social and equity impacts


1. Introduction

Freight transport is an essential activity for economic development of the European Union

and its Member States. The 2011 Transport White Paper is the European Commission's

roadmap for the next decade to build a competitive transport system. It will increase

mobility, remove major barriers in key areas and fuel growth and employment (EC,

2011). The EU transport sector faces growing competition in fast developing world

transport markets, as other world regions launch transport modernisation and

infrastructure investment programmes. Thus, it is crucial that EU transport continues to

develop and invest.

Logistics and supply chain management face the challenge of dealing with the increasing

length, complexity and vulnerability of supply chains while enhancing the performance,

quality and knowledge needed to plan seamless freight transport. For coordination

purposes, technology has been developed and implemented to handle the increase in

data necessary to manage seamless freight transport. These solutions often have

different information systems, user requirements, business models and deployment

trajectories thus presenting obstacles to the further deployment of pan-European

logistics.

EU policy supports intermodal freight transport, in order to increase its overall efficiency,

and to overcome shippers' reluctance to make this change as intermodal transport is

often seen as too complex. Infrastructure, equipment and information systems need to

be improved and user awareness and research is required to identify effective ways to

promote intermodal transport. Promotion of the Trans-European networks (TEN-T) that

cover all transport modes and include the motorways of the sea (EP and Council, 2013) is

a further stimulus for the development of intermodal freight transport.

Urban expansion and high dependence on the car and truck have led to congestion in

cities and towns across Europe. Congestion and the accompanying issues of road safety

and environmental pollution present major challenges in planning for improved

accessibility of cities and reducing the environmental impact of transport. The priority is

to create urban transport systems that meet the economic and social demand for rapid

and efficient movement of goods, safely and cost-effectively.


EU-funded research and innovation in freight transport have focused on developing new

logistics and intermodal solutions, and cleaner, more efficient and integrated urban

transport systems.

The research projects and studies reviewed are grouped in three sub-themes:

• Logistics and supply chain management

• Intermodal transport

• Urban freight transport.


2. Sub-Theme: Logistics and supply

chain management

Production and distribution networks depend on efficient logistics chains for the

transport of raw materials and finished products throughout the EU and beyond.

Research is contributing to these business and industry-related tasks, by

creating and testing appropriate framework conditions and innovative logistical

concepts.

EU transport policy (EC, 2007) is directed to improving the organisation and management

of supply chains and logistics, which are pivotal in determining quantity and quality of

freight transport and the commercial relationships between shippers and transport

service providers. Improved freight logistics contributes to EU competitiveness in global

markets by facilitating efficient sourcing of raw materials and by transporting finished

products to world markets.

The research projects and studies are presented in two clusters:

• Advanced logistics systems: technical improvements in the logistics chain,

including identification of best practices.

• Sustainable logistics: planning and management of logistics and freight transport,

and implementation of sustainable logistics solutions.

Advanced logistics systems

MODULUSHCA (Modular Logistics Units in Shared Co-modal Networks, FP7,

2012–2015) is promoting iso-modular logistics units for modal and co-modal flows of

fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). A road map towards a fully interconnected logistics

system in 2030 will be developed to address the changes and steps required to

implement these changes gradually, exploiting progress in digital, physical and

operational interconnectivity, and building on current players, assets and infrastructure.


WINN (European Platform Driving KnoWledge to INNovations in Freight

Logistics, FP7, 2012–2015) is establishing broad collaboration framework that includes

stakeholders operating EU-wide (CO-Tree, EIRAC heritage) and national triple helix

networks operating in Europe: CNC-LOGISTICA (Spain), DINALOG (Netherlands) and ILiM

(Poland and Baltic to Balkan countries). The Platform will define research and innovation in

logistics for research under Horizon 2020 and in Member States research programmes.

LOGINN (LOGistics INNovation uptake, FP7, 2012–2015) is bridging the gap

between pilot implementation and market uptake of innovations in logistics by

coordinating and supporting research and technology development. A platform, the

Logistics Arena, has been set up to stimulate discussion, share practices and gain

consensus of public stakeholders, market players and researchers on intermodal and

freight logistics to facilitate and accelerate commercial uptake of logistics innovations.

ICARGO (Intelligent Cargo in Efficient and Sustainable Global Logistics

Operations, FP7, 2011–2015) is advancing and extending the use of ICT to support

new logistics services that synchronise vehicle movements and logistics operations across

various modes and actors to lower CO2 emissions; adapt to changing conditions through

dynamic planning methods involving intelligent cargo, vehicle and infrastructure

systems; and finally combine services, resources and information from different

stakeholders, taking part in an open freight management ecosystem.

L4Life (Logistics Industry Coalition for Long-term, ICT-based Freight Transport

Efficiency, FP7, 2010–2012) brought together logistics companies, technology

providers and research organisations working on ICT solutions to increase operational

efficiency to ensure long-term sustainability of freight logistics.

LOGMAN (LOGistics & MANufacturing trends and sustainable transport, FP7,

2009–2011) provided three sets of recommendations on logistics trends, CO2

assessment and transport policy perspectives. The logistics trends identified to have the

largest impact on reducing CO2 emissions were intermodal transport, transport

consolidation, and local recycling.


AIMS (Advanced Impacts Evaluation Methodology for Innovative Freight

Transport Solutions, FP7, 2008–2010) produced an innovative evaluation

methodology to assess research on freight transport at European level. AIMS identified

critical factors of RTD projects through success and failure analysis of previous FP5 and

FP6 projects. Based on results coming from the analysis of the past, present and future,

AIMS assessed the positive or negative impacts of European research FP and projects in

particular in the economic, social and environmental fields. Guidelines for FP7 projects

were produced and recommendations made on defining research policy objectives.

KOMODA (Co-modality – Towards Optimised Integrated Chains in Freight

Transport Logistics, FP7, 2008–2009) surveyed stakeholders in the logistics chain to

obtain a comprehensive overview of e-logistics applications in transport operations. A

roadmap was developed for an integrated e-Logistics platform by and between freight

transport modes in Europe.

LOGBASED (Logistics-based Ship Design, FP6, 2004–2007) developed a

methodology for a logistics-based ship design for Ro-Ro vessels to make sea transport

more competitive with rail and road transport. The methodology was tested in four

business cases: the Atlantic Case for Ro-Ro sea transport services between Spain and the

United Kingdom; the Baltic Case for services in the north-eastern part of the Baltic Sea;

the Hydro case transport system operating between the three cities in the west of

Norway (Bergen, Haugesund and Stavanger), and the Rhine Case for Ro-Ro sea transport

services between Norway and the Rhine River.

Sustainable freight transport

BESTFACT (Best Practice Factory for Freight Transport, FP7, 2012–2015) is

enhancing the use of best practices and innovations in freight logistics to contribute to

competitiveness and to reduce environmental impacts. Best practices are being selected

based on a wide range of criteria, such as implementation costs, innovation level, and

the involvement of small and medium-size enterprises. Best practices are being

disseminated by means of online media and workshops. The project is building on

previous projects (BESTUFS, PROMIT and BESTLOG) and integrates four interrelated

areas in freight logistics: urban freight, green logistics, co-modality, and e-Freight.


CONVENIENT (Complete Vehicle Energy-saving Technologies for Heavy-Trucks,

FP7, 2012–2015) is targeting a 30% reduction in vehicle fuel consumption for long-

distance freight transport by developing an innovative heavy-truck archetype with

innovative energy-saving technologies and solutions.

FUTRE (FUture prospects on TRansport evolution and innovation challenges for

the competitiveness of Europe, FP7, 2012–2014) highlighted which future

challenges and demand drivers can have a considerable impact on the global demand

patterns in passenger and freight transport and how these might affect the

competitiveness of related industries and service providers. In doing so, it aimed at

bridging the gap between the manifold studies on the future of the European transport

system and its subsections on the one hand, and, on the other hand, the issue of

competitiveness that needs to be supported by targeted research strategies.

SoCOOL@EU (Sustainable Organisation between Clusters Of Optimised Logistics

@ Europe, FP7, 2012–2014) is developing a European platform of excellence in supply

chain management and logistics for hubs and gateways in regional clusters with a

logistics and transport profile. Transnational cooperation is being fostered between

research-driven clusters and mutual learning between regional actors. Joint action plans

are being developed and implemented to improve regional economic competitiveness, to

support collaboration between of research-driven clusters, and to mentor regions with a

less developed research profile.

SUPERGREEN (Supporting EU's Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan on Green

Corridors Issues, FP7, 2010–2013) promoted the development of environmentally

friendly freight logistics because environmental impact is playing an increasing role in all

transport modes, and holistic approaches are needed to identify 'win-win' solutions.

Green corridors in representative regions and main transport routes throughout Europe

were evaluated.

COFRET (Carbon footprint of freight transport, FP7, 2011–2013) developed and

tested a methodology and framework to calculate carbon emissions in supply chains.

SKEMA (Sustainable Knowledge Platform for the European Maritime and

Logistics Industry, FP7, 2008–2011) established a platform for policy makers and

stakeholders in the EU maritime and logistics sectors. This platform includes a knowledge

base of studies and outputs of thematic activities that address key challenges in maritime

transport and logistics.


EURIDICE (European Inter-disciplinary Research on Intelligent Cargo for

Efficient, Safe and Environment-friendly Logistics, FP7, 2008–2011) resulted in a

platform to link freight items with information systems and users in the logistic chain. In

demonstrations, the platform was shown to increase the speed and efficiency of freight

transport, and to reduce environmental impacts.

FREIGHTVISION (Freight Transport Foresight 2050, FP7, 2008–2010) developed

a long-term vision and a robust and adaptive action plan (FREIGHTVISION Action Plan)

that resulted in recommendations for the development of a sustainable long-distance

freight transport system to be achieved by 2050.

GOODROUTE (Dangerous Goods Transportation Routing and Monitoring, FP6,

2006–2008) developed a cooperative system for routing vehicles transporting

dangerous goods Vehicles (DGV) to minimise risks that are cost-efficient solutions for

logistic chain operators.


3. Sub-Theme: Intermodal transport

The optimal functioning of the transport system requires full integration and

interoperability of all parts of the network, and interconnection between modal

networks. Incompatibility of the transport equipment for road, rail, short sea

and inland waterway increases transfer and handling costs and necessitates

cumbersome transhipment. Research on intermodal transport has led to

solutions to problems that impede integration of freight transport.

Lack of standardised equipment, for instance container units, is a challenge for

intermodal transport. To meet increasing demand and make the intermodal transport a

competitive alternative to road transport, intermodal planning can be improved by means

of terminal management and ICT solutions.

EU-funded research has identified promising technologies and solutions for improving

security within the intermodal supply chains and logistics systems.

The research projects and studies are presented in three clusters:

• Advanced logistical systems covers technical improvements in the intermodal

transport network, including identification of best practices.

• Intermodal planning contains studies to improve coordination of modal transport

systems to create an effective and efficient intermodal network.

• Secure intermodal transport includes research to enhance security of intermodal

transport.

Advanced intermodal systems

ECOHUBS (Environmentally COherent measures and environmental

interventions to debottleneck HUBS of the multimodal network favoured by

seamless flow of goods, FP7, 2012–2015) is providing models and capabilities for

cooperation and communication between green hub stakeholders, establishing value

added services for co-modal networks, and contributing to reducing emissions of

greenhouse gases and other pollutants.


TELLISYS (Intelligent Transport System for Innovative Intermodal Freight

Transport, FP7, 2012–2015) is developing ITS for intermodal freight transport

incorporating road, rail, short sea and inland shipping. The system will consist of volume-

optimised and traceable MegaSwapBoxes, and an adapted trailer and prime mover for

road transport.

COMCIS (Collaborative Information Services for Container Management, FP7,

2011–2013) strengthened interoperability between e-freight systems developed in EU

projects and by commercial undertakings, such as testing Logit 4SEE (resulting from

FREIGHTWISE, Smart-CM Neutral Layer and ICS-SEAP (from SMART-CM), SICIS (from

Integri Port Community Systems (e. g., from DESCARTES) and commercial platforms

(e.g., from DHL).

E-FREIGHT (European e-freight capabilities for co-modal transport, FP7, 2010–

2013) contributed to the Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan (October 2007), and the

ITS Action Plan (October 2008) by developing a standard framework for freight

information exchange covering all transport modes.

RISING (RIS Services for Improving the Integration of Inland Waterway

Transports into Intermodal Chains, FP7, 2009–2012) identified, integrated, and

further developed information services, such as the River Information Services, to

support inland waterway transport and logistics. Tailor-made proactive information

services were developed including a booking system, an information system for events

such as increase in water levels, and integrated terminals to align transport between

seaports and inland waterways.

TIGER (Transit via Innovative Gateway concepts solving European Intermodal

Rail needs, FP7, 2009–2012) provided ideas and methods to overcome road

congestion in and around Europe’s major ports by building intermodal freight logistics

chains. A new business model was developed for transport via dry ports, hubs, mega

hubs, and a concept for industrial scale operations was introduced.

TELLIBOX (Intelligent MegaSwapBoxes for Advanced Intermodal Freight

Transport, FP7, 2008–2011) developed an all-purpose loading unit, the

MegaSwapBox, for intermodal transport by road, rail, inland- and short-sea shipping that

combines the advantages of containers and semitrailers. The MegaSwapBox is designed

for top handing, and is pilfer- and theft-proof.


PROMIT (Promote Innovative Intermodal Freight Transport, FP6, 2006–2009)

contributed to improvement and implementation of intermodal freight transport

technologies and procedures, and promoted innovative intermodal freight transport and

modal shift. Three Intermodal Innovative Day Conferences and 15 cluster workshops

were conducted. The results were compiled and an inventory made of projects and

operational solutions. An in depth study of the Stora Enso North European Transport

Supply System was completed. Innovative intermodal freight transport has been

promoted through media, such as flyers, newsletter and websites.

TRIMOTRANS (Development of New Intermodal Loading Units and Dedicated

Adaptors for the Trimodal Transport of Bulk Materials in Europe, FP6, 2005–

2008) developed technical solutions for intermodal loading units including containers,

dedicated adaptors and mobile internal fixtures to shift freight from road to rail and

inland waterways.

eMOTION (Europe-wide Multi-modal On-trip Traffic Information, FP6, 2006–

2008) developed a service-oriented system to provide uniform data on container

journeys, which was tested in pilot sites in Genoa (Italy) and Austria. The uniform data

have been encoded and documented in Unified Modelling Language, based on selection,

harmonisation and integration of the existing standards. The organisational and legal

framework was prepared for system exploitation and further transferability of the project

results at European level.

ISTU (Integrated Standard Transport Unit for Self-guided Freight Container

Transportation Systems on Rail, FP6, 2003–2006) designed, marketed and validated

a container platform, satisfying a practical driving cycle of two-container wagons within

terminal applications including their requested security and application aspects.


Intermodal planning

InTraRegio (Towards an Intermodal Transport Network through innovative

research-driven clusters in Regions of organised and competitive knowledge,

FP7, 2012–2014) is a coordination action to enhance the integration and capacity of

the five European regions: Canary Islands (Spain), Bremen (Germany), Marmara

(Turkey), Calabria (Italy) and Ruse (Bulgaria). Regional RTD, and economic policies and

research strategies related to transport, particularly intermodal freight and passenger

transport are being developed.

CO3 (Collaboration Concepts for Co-Modality, FP7, 2011–2014) is working on

improving the efficiency of transport through co-modality and collaboration to prevent

increasing costs being passed on consumers. A supportive operational and legal framework

is being developed to guide companies to participate in horizontal collaboration projects,

and collaborative business models are being identified. The project outcomes are to be

demonstrated in four case studies, which will also provide market feedback.

BE LOGIC (Benchmarking Logistics and Co-Modality, FP7, 2008–2011) developed

an e-tool to support company search for potential strategic improvements resulting from

modal change. The e-tool compares current practices with alternatives based on different

transport modes using six criteria: time, cost, flexibility, reliability, quality and sustainability.

DRYPORT (Dryport – a modal shift in practice, INTERREG IVB, 2008–2011)

developed and designed hinterland intermodal freight transport nodes – dry ports – that are

fully integrated into the Gateway freight handling systems, to adapt a public concept to a

private sector model, and to integrate dry ports into the EU Motorways of the Sea concept.

EIRAC II (European Intermodal Research Advisory Council, FP7, 2008–2011)

developed a Strategic Intermodal Research Agenda 2010–2030+ for intermodal transport and

Implementation Roadmap. These instruments direct EU and national resources to targeted

research. In addition, an intermodal transport handbook was published in 2010 on making the

shift to intermodal transport and adapted to changing requirements and circumstances.

PROPS (Promotional Platform for Short Sea Shipping and Intermodality, FP7,

2008–2011) identified the best practices aimed at improving the integration of short

sea shipping with relevant inland logistics chains, and introduced an effective

methodology to support intermodal stakeholders achieve the quality of services that end-

users require and to confidently market these services throughout Europe.


SMART-CM (Smart Container Chain Management, FP7, 2008–2011) researched

and implemented advanced technology in order to overhaul the container door-to-door

transport chain to increase efficiency, security, and competitiveness. Two real-life

demonstrators validated the innovative organisational technologies and processes:

• Corridor A (the Europe-Middle East corridor): Antwerp – Port Said – feeder service to

Thessaloniki – Dubai – NAVA SHEVA/Mundra.

• Corridor B (the Europe-Asia/Pacific corridor): Antwerp – Singapore – feeder service to

Laem Chabang in Thailand and Ningbo in China.

FREIGHTWISE (Management Framework for Intelligent Intermodal Transport,

FP6, 2007–2010) contributed to a shift in freight from road to intermodal transport.

The FREIGHTWISE Framework contributed to simplifying freight booking services to four

roles and six messages containing all information required to publish, advertise, plan,

book, execute and invoice an intermodal transport service. The four roles are transport

service provider, transport user, transport network manager, and transport regulator.

The six messages are transport service description, transport execution plans, transport

execution status, transport item status, transport operation status, and network and

traffic status.

WORLDNET (European Transport Network Model Refinement Regarding Freight

and Intermodal Transport to and from the Rest of the World, FP6, 2007–2009)

delivered solutions to support policy forecasting and to facilitate implementation of EU

transport policy measures and instruments. The EU transport network model for freight

and intermodal transport worldwide was refined based on the results of the earlier

implemented ETIS and TRANSTOOLS projects.

CAESAR (Coordination Action for the European Strategic Agenda of Research on

intermodalism and logistics, FP6, 2005–2007) established and supported the

European Intermodal Research Advisory Council (EIRAC) in advising and influencing the

stakeholders in planning research and technology programmes directed to fostering a

new and common vision on intermodal research in Europe.


Secure Intermodal Transport

CONTAIN (Container Security Advanced Information Networking, FP7, 2011–

2015) is demonstrating and specifying a Shipping Containers Surveillance System that

encompasses regulations, policy and standardisation, business models and advanced

container security management.

LOGSEC (Development of a Strategic Roadmap towards a Large scale

Demonstration Project in European Logistics and Supply Chain Security, FP7,

2010–2011) developed a strategic roadmap for a large-scale demonstration project in

European logistics and supply chain security. A broad set of security policies, regulations,

standards, technologies, procedural aspects, services and links to other related projects

was assessed and evaluated.

INTEGRITY (Intermodal Global Door-to-door Container Supply Chain Visibility,

FP7, 2008–2011) developed a Shared Intermodal Container Information System

(SICIS) to enable authorised companies and authorities to access planning and status

information on containers during transport. The system meets the needs of companies

and authorities for supply chain visibility.

CHINOS (Container Handling in Intermodal Nodes – Optimal and Secure, FP6,

2006–2010) demonstrated the effectiveness of the system to identify and track

containers throughout the logistics chain. This system can also monitor a container seal

status and thus detect whether the container has been opened and tampered with.

CHINOS software is available commercially.

COUNTERACT (Cluster of User Networks in Transport and Energy Relating to

Anti-terrorist Activities, FP6, 2006–2009) was set up to improve security against

terrorist attack in intermodal freight transport and focused on protection of critical

transport infrastructure and freight. The transport and energy sectors were supported

with assessment of new technologies that prioritise and assess the needs for security

policies and measures.


4. Sub-Theme: Urban freight transport

With the population concentrating in urban areas the demand for urban

passenger and freight transport is increasing, and thus contributing to

congestion, pollution and traffic accidents. Faced with these challenges, EU-

funded research on urban transport is directed to support local decision makers

in delivering sustainable and integrated policies while offering smart and green

solutions.

New mobility concepts and smart city solutions are key elements to achieve sustainable

development in urban areas and meet the challenges of the future generations. These

solutions require innovations at the interface of transport, energy and ICT. To support

this process, the European Commission launched a European Innovation Partnership for

Smart Cities and Communities in 2012 (EC, 2012).

In 2013, the European Commission launched the Clean Power for Transport (CPT)

initiative (EC, 2013b) to break the overdependence of transport on oil and to facilitate

development of a single market for alternative fuels in Europe. An additional objective set

by the White Paper is to achieve CO2-free city logistics in major urban centres by 2030.

Research projects have been grouped as follows:

• City logistics: smart concepts and practices in city logistics.

• Clean technology: improvements in urban transport to improve urban

environments.

City logistics

SMARTFUSION (Smart Urban Freight Solutions, FP7, 2012–2015) is developing

and demonstrating innovations to improve the efficiency, and social and environmental

sustainability of urban freight operations. These innovations build on urban freight

strategies in Newcastle (United Kingdom), Berlin (Germany) and the Lombardy region

(Italy). Smart urban freight solutions in urban-interurban supply chains are to be

demonstrated.


SPIDER PLUS (Sustainable Plan for Integrated Development through the

European Rail Network Projecting Logistics & Mobility for Urban Spatial Design

Evolution, FP7, 2012–2015) is developing a mobility vision for 2050 based on a

strategic design and plan, and a road map to deliver sustainable solutions. Electrified rail

has a central role for passenger and freight transport with tools to achieve including

eService, eFreight, ICT technologies, and satellite communications, and Galileo.

STRAIGHTSOL (STRAtegies and measures for smarter urban freIGHT SOLutions,

FP7, 2011–2014) is providing a targeted state-of-the-art review of freight measures

and initiatives in urban-interurban freight transport. An impact assessment framework is

being developed for a comprehensive approach to urban freight solutions, particularly

linking urban and interurban freight movement. Demonstrations have been established in

Brussels, Barcelona, Thessaloniki, Utrecht, Lisbon, Oslo and the south of the United

Kingdom with stakeholders in the logistics sector.

CITYLOG (Sustainability and Efficiency of City Logistics, FP7, 2010–2012)

developed technologies and systems to minimise the impact of urban freight transport on

the environment while maintaining and improving efficiency. Pilots were conducted in

Berlin, Lyon and Turin.

TURBLOG-WW (Transferability of Urban Logistics Concepts and Practices from a

World Wide Perspective, FP7, 2009–2011) developed a coordination platform to

promote the exchange of experience, information and knowledge on the urban dimension

of freight transport logistics. Several case studies were selected for the transfer of

experience between the EU, USA and Asia.

SMARTFREIGHT (Smart Freight Transport in Urban Areas, FP7, 2008–2010)

specified, developed, demonstrated and evaluated technical solutions to make urban freight

transport more efficient, more environmentally friendly, and safer. The solutions support

access control to areas and transport network sections; priorities; monitoring and control of

dangerous cargo; pre-bookings of loading bays; and information exchange between traffic

management and freight distribution to support planning transport operations.

BESTLOG (Logistics Best Practice, FP6, 2006–2010) developed a European platform

for sharing and disseminating best practices in city logistics. Online toolsets and a logistic

research database were developed to support stakeholders and transport actors to

increase intermodality, efficiency and integration.


FIDEUS (Freight Innovative Delivery in European Urban Space, FP6, 2005–

2008) provided a set of vehicle solutions to support an innovative approach to

organising urban freight transport in line with political strategies to safeguard the

'liveability' of cities, while being compatible with efficient logistics.

BESTUFS II (BEST Urban Freight Solutions II, FP6, 2004–2008) was the follow up

to BESTUFS and strengthened and extended promotion and dissemination of City Logistics

Solutions (CLS) in Europe and beyond. For instance, new links were established with other

networks, groups and other international experts involved in urban freight transport.

Clean technology

eCOMPASS (eCO-friendly urban Multi-modal route PlAnning Services for Mobile

uSers, FP7, 2011–2014) is developing a comprehensive set of tools and services to

enable transport users to optimise planning of multimodal journeys in urban areas based

on eco-awareness.

FURBOT (Freight Urban RoBOTic vehicle, FP7, 2011–2014) is developing a vehicle

prototype that integrates new features in vehicle architecture based on advanced

technologies. The main paradigms of the new vehicle design are energy efficiency,

sustainability, mobility dexterity, modularity, intelligent automated driving, and freight

handling robotisation.

MODUM (Models for Optimising Dynamic Urban Mobility, FP7, 2011–2014) is

focusing on energy-efficient multimodal transport choices accommodating dynamic

variations, minimising environmental impacts and improving the quality of life in urban

environments. Three qualitative studies are being undertaken to identify the

requirements for low carbon and efficient mobility. Case studies will be developed in

Manchester (United Kingdom) and Sofia (Bulgaria).

CITY MOVE (City multi-Role Optimised Vehicle, FP7, 2010–2012) developed an

innovative freight vehicle solution adaptable to the needs of European cities to ensure

secure, flexible, clean and energy-efficient road transport. Pilot tests were carried out in

Turin (Italy), Lyon (France) and Berlin (Germany).


BEAUTY (Bio-ethanol Engine for Advanced Urban Transport by Light Commercial

Vehicle & Heavy Duty, FP7, 2009–2011) explored three bio-ethanol engine

technologies: heavy-duty urban vehicles (a spark ignition: Otto cycle, engine); light

commercials (a spark ignition: Otto cycle engine using an innovative controlled auto-

ignition (CAI) process; and light commercials (a compression ignition: Diesel cycle engine

using an innovative surface ignition system).

SUCCESS (Smaller Urban Communities in CIVITAS for Environmentally

Sustainable Solutions, FP6, 2005–2009) was set up in CIVITAS II Programme with

partners from La Rochelle, Preston and Ploiesti. Alternative fuels were demonstrated to

as efficient choices for urban transport.

START (Short-Term Actions to Re-organise Transport of goods, IEE, 2006–2008)

reduced energy use by making freight traffic in the cities more efficient, by consolidating

deliveries, improving load factors and using more energy efficient vehicles. The cities in

the project (Bristol, Göteborg, Ljubljana, Ravenna and Riga) developed regulations for

new and expanded restricted areas and implemented these area restrictions.


5. Future Challenges for Research

Policy

Optimising the performance of intermodal logistic chains, including making greater use of

inherently more resource-efficient modes, needs further assistance from research in the

following areas:

• efficient management and sustainable use of transport infrastructure, enabling

deployment of innovative and sustainable freight transport services on the

intermodal network;

• deployment of innovative transport services and new combinations of proven

transport services, including through application of ITS and establishment of

relevant governance structures;

• facilitation of intermodal transport service operations and improvement of

cooperation between transport service providers; and

• development of resource and carbon efficiency, notably in the fields of vehicle

traction, driving/steaming, systems and operations planning, resource sharing

and cooperation.

The most inefficient part of the logistics chain, the ‘last-mile’, needs to be improved and

better linked with long-distance, inter-urban and urban transport. These last miles are

often made in urban areas, and research is needed to develop approaches that optimise

logistic flows based on using ICT tools in logistics management and in developing

cleaner technology.

To make freight transport more sustainable, further research on logistics, intermodal and

urban transport systems is required. Horizon 2020 (EC, 2013c) envisages transport

research priorities to reduce urban congestion, to increase safety and security, and to

create resource-efficient and competitive transport in the global arena.


Bibliography

European Commission (2007): Freight Logistics Action Plan, COM(2007) 607 final,

Brussels.

European Commission (2011): White Paper, Roadmap to a Single European Transport

Area, Towards a competitive and resource efficient transport system, COM(2011)

144 final, Brussels.

European Commission (2012): Communication from the Commission – Smart Cities and

Communities – European Innovation Partnership, C(2012) 4701 final, Brussels.

European Commission (2013a): The Marco Polo programme – Results and outlook,

COM(2013) 278 final, Brussels.

European Commission (2013b): Clean Power for Transport: A European alternative fuels

strategy, COM(2013) 17 final, Brussels.

European Commission (2013c): Decision C (2013)8631 of 10 December 2013, Horizon

2020 Work Programme 2014–2015, 11. Smart, green and integrated transport,

Brussels.

European Parliament and Council (2013), Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013 of the European

Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on Union guidelines for the

development of the trans-European transport network and repealing Decision No

661/2010/EU (Text with EEA relevance), Strasbourg.


Glossary

CLS City Logistics Solutions

CAI Controlled Auto Ignition

DGV Dangerous Goods Vehicle

DG MOVE Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport

EC European Commission

EP European Parliament

ERA European Research Area

ETA Estimated Time of Arrival

EU European Union

FMCG Fast Moving Consumer Goods

FP6 Sixth Framework Programme

FP7 Seventh Framework Programme

ICT Information and Computer Technology

ITS Intelligent Transport Systems

IWT Inland Waterway Transport

MSB MegaSwapBox

RIS River Information Services

RTD Research, Technology and Development

Ro-Ro Roll on/Roll off

SPC Sea Promotion Centre

TEN Trans European Network

TRIP Transport Research and Innovation Portal

TRS Thematic Research Summary


ANNEX: Projects by Sub-Theme

Sub-Theme : Advanced logistical systems

Acronym Title Funding Programme

Project Website Duration

LOGINN LOGistics INNovation uptake FP7 http://www.loginn-project.eu/ 2012–2015

MODULUSHCA Modular Logistics Units in Shared Co-modal Networks

FP7 http://www.ptvgroup.com/de/ 2012–2015

WINN European Platform Driving KnoWledge to INNovations in Freight Logistics

FP7 http://www.cnc-logistica.org/ 2012–2015

ICARGO Intelligent Cargo in Efficient and Sustainable Global Logistics Operations

FP7 http://i-cargo.eu/ 2011–2015

L4Life Logistics Industry Coalition for Long-term, ICT-based Freight Transport Efficiency

FP7 http://www.logistics4life.eu/ 2010–2012

LOGMAN LOGistics & MANufacturing trends and sustainable transport

FP7 http://logman-footprint.eu/ 2009–2011

AIMS Advanced Impacts Evaluation Methodology for Innovative Freight Transport Solutions

FP7 http://www.ptvgroup.com/de/

2008–2010

KOMODA Co-modality – Towards Optimised Integrated Chains in Freight Transport Logistics

FP7 http://www.ilim.poznan.pl/english-version

2008–2009

http://www.loginn-project.eu/

http://www.ptvgroup.com/de/

http://www.cnc-logistica.org/

http://i-cargo.eu/

http://www.logistics4life.eu/

http://logman-footprint.eu/

http://www.ptvgroup.com/de/

http://www.ilim.poznan.pl/english-version

http://www.ilim.poznan.pl/english-version


LOGBASED Logistics-based Ship Design FP6 http://www.logbased.no/ 2004–2007

BESTFACT Best Practice Factory for Freight Transport FP7 http://www.bestfact.net/ 2012–2015

CONVENIENT Complete Vehicle Energy-saving Technologies for Heavy-Trucks

FP7 http://www.crf.it/en-S/Pages/default.aspx

2012–2015

FUTRE FUture prospects on TRansport evolution and innovation challenges for the competitiveness of Europe

FP7 http://www.certh.gr/root.en.aspx 2012–2014

SoCOOL@EU Sustainable Organisation between Clusters Of Optimised Logistics @ Europe

FP7 http://www.socool-logistics.eu/ 2012–2014

SUPERGREEN Supporting EU's Freight Transport Logistics Action Plan on Green Corridors Issues

FP7 http://www.supergreenproject.eu/ 2010–2013

COFRET Carbon footprint of freight transport FP7 http://www.cofret-project.eu/ 2011–2013

EURIDICE European Inter-disciplinary Research on Intelligent Cargo for Efficient, Safe and Environment-friendly Logistics

FP7 http://www.euridice-project.eu/ 2008–2011

SKEMA Sustainable Knowledge Platform for the European Maritime and Logistics Industry

FP7 http://www.skematransport.eu/ 2008–2011

FREIGHTVISION Freight Transport Foresight 2050 FP7 http://www.freightvision.eu/ 2008–2010

GOODROUTE Dangerous Goods Transportation Routing and Monitoring

FP6 http://www.goodroute-eu.org/pages/ page.php?mm=1&lnk=start.php

2006–2008

http://www.logbased.no/

http://www.bestfact.net/

http://www.crf.it/en-S/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.crf.it/en-S/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.certh.gr/root.en.aspx

http://www.socool-logistics.eu/

http://www.supergreenproject.eu/

http://www.cofret-project.eu/

http://www.euridice-project.eu/

http://www.skematransport.eu/

http://www.freightvision.eu/

http://www.goodroute-eu.org/pages/%0bpage.php?mm=1&lnk=start.php

http://www.goodroute-eu.org/pages/%0bpage.php?mm=1&lnk=start.php


Sub-Theme: Intermodal transport



ECOHUBS Environmentally COherent measures and environmental interventions to debottleneck HUBS of the multimodal network favoured by seamless flow of goods

FP7 http://www.transport-research.info/web/projects/project_details.cfm?id=45365

2012–2015

TELLISYS Intelligent Transport System for Innovative Intermodal Freight Transport


2012–2015

COMCIS Collaborative Information Services for Container Management

FP7 http://www.comcis.eu/ 2011–2013

E-FREIGHT European e-freight capabilities for co-modal transport

FP7 http://www.efreightproject.eu/ 2010–2013

TIGER Transit via Innovative Gateway concepts solving European Intermodal Rail needs

FP7 http://www.tigerproject.eu/ 2009–2012

RISING RIS Services for Improving the Integration of Inland Waterway Transports into Intermodal Chains

FP7 http://www.rising.eu/web/guest/home 2009–2012

TELLIBOX Intelligent MegaSwapBoxes for Advanced Intermodal Freight Transport


2008–2011

PROMIT Promote Innovative Intermodal Freight Transport

FP6 http://www.promit-project.net/

2006–2009

http://www.transport-research.info/web/projects/project_details.cfm?id=45365






http://www.comcis.eu/

http://www.efreightproject.eu/

http://www.tigerproject.eu/

http://www.rising.eu/web/guest/home




http://www.promit-project.net/


eMOTION Europe-wide Multi-modal On-trip Traffic Information

FP6 http://www.emotion-project.eu/ 2006–2008

TRIMOTRANS Development of New Intermodal Loading Units and Dedicated Adaptors for the Trimodal Transport of Bulk Materials in Europe


2005–2008

ISTU Integrated Standard Transport Unit for Self-guided Freight Container Transportation Systems on Rail


2003–2006

InTraRegio Towards an Intermodal Transport Network through innovative research-driven clusters in Regions of organised and competitive knowledge

FP7 http://www.intraregio.eu/ 2012–2014

CO3 Collaboration Concepts for Co-Modality FP7 http://www.co3-project.eu/ 2011–2014

BE LOGIC Benchmarking Logistics and Co-Modality FP7 http://www.be-logic.info/ 2008–2011

DRYPORT Dryport – a modal shift in practice INTERREG IVB

http://www.dryport.org/ 2008–2011

EIRAC II European Intermodal Research Advisory Council

FP7 http://cordis.europa.eu/projects/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.details& REF=89936

2008–2011

PROPS Promotional Platform for Short Sea Shipping and Intermodality

FP7 http://www.props-sss.eu/

2008–2011

SMART-CM Smart Container Chain Management FP7 http://www.smart-cm.eu/

2008–2011

http://www.emotion-project.eu/







http://www.intraregio.eu/

http://www.co3-project.eu/

http://www.be-logic.info/

http://www.dryport.org/

http://cordis.europa.eu/projects/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.details&%0bREF=89936



http://www.props-sss.eu/

http://www.smart-cm.eu/


FREIGHTWISE Management Framework for Intelligent Intermodal Transport

FP6 http://freightwise.tec-hh.net/

2007–2010

WORLDNET European Transport Network Model Refinement Regarding Freight and Intermodal Transport to and from the Rest of the World

FP6 http://www.panteia.nl/ 2007–2009

CAESAR Coordination Action for the European Strategic Agenda of Research on intermodalism and logistics

FP6 http://cordis.europa.eu/projects/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.details& REF=74787

2005–2007

CONTAIN Container Security Advanced Information Networking


2011–2015

LOGSEC Development of a Strategic Roadmap towards a Large scale Demonstration Project in European Logistics and Supply Chain Security

FP7 http://www.logsec.org/

2010–2011

INTEGRITY Intermodal Global Door-to-door Container Supply Chain Visibility

FP7 http://www.integrity-supplychain.eu/

2008–2011

CHINOS Container Handling in Intermodal Nodes – Optimal and Secure

FP6 http://www.isl.org/en/projects/chinos 2006–2010

COUNTERACT Cluster of User Networks in Transport and Energy Relating to Anti-terrorist Activities


2006–2009

http://freightwise.tec-hh.net/

http://www.panteia.nl/







http://www.logsec.org/

http://www.integrity-supplychain.eu/

http://www.isl.org/en/projects/chinos





Sub-Theme: Urban freight transport



SMARTFUSION Smart Urban Freight Solutions FP7 http://www.smartfusion.eu/ 2012–2015

SPIDER PLUS Sustainable Plan for Integrated Development through the European Rail Network Projecting Logistics & Mobility for Urban Spatial Design Evolution


2012–2015

STRAIGHTSOL STRAtegies and measures for smarter urban freIGHT SOLutions

FP7 http://www.straightsol.eu/ 2011–2014

CITYLOG Sustainability and Efficiency of City Logistics FP7 http://www.city-log.eu/ 2010–2012

TURBLOG-WW Transferability of Urban Logistics Concepts and Practices from a World Wide Perspective

FP7 http://www.turblog.eu/ 2009–2011

SMARTFREIGHT Smart Freight Transport in Urban Areas FP7 http://www.smartfreight.info/ 2008–2010

BESTLOG Logistics Best Practice FP6 http://www.elabestlog.org/ 2006–2010

FIDEUS Freight Innovative Delivery in European Urban Space


2005–2008

BESTUFS II BEST Urban Freight Solutions II FP6 http://www.bestufs.net/ 2004–2008

http://www.smartfusion.eu/




http://www.straightsol.eu/

http://www.city-log.eu/

http://www.turblog.eu/

http://www.smartfreight.info/

http://www.elabestlog.org/




http://www.bestufs.net/


eCOMPASS eCO-friendly urban Multi-modal route PlAnning Services for Mobile uSers

FP7 http://www.ecompass-project.eu/

2011–2014

FURBOT Freight Urban RoBOTic vehicle FP7 http://www.transport-research.info/web/projects/project_details.cfm?id=41380

2011–2014

MODUM Models for Optimising Dynamic Urban Mobility

FP7 http://modum-project.eu/

2011–2014

CITY MOVE City multi-Role Optimised Vehicle FP7 http://www.citymoveproject.eu/

2010–2012

BEAUTY Bio-ethanol Engine for Advanced Urban Transport by Light Commercial Vehicle & Heavy Duty


2009–2011

START Short-Term Actions to Re-organise Transport of goods

IEE http://www.transport-research.info/web/projects/project_details.cfm?id=10947

2006–2008

SUCCESS Smaller Urban Communities in CIVITAS for Environmentally Sustainable Solutions

FP6 http://www.civitas-success.org

2005–2009

http://www.ecompass-project.eu/




http://modum-project.eu/

http://www.citymoveproject.eu/







http://www.civitas-success.org/

Documents

Thematic Research Summary: Freight transport...2015/04/30 · ICARGO (Intelligent Cargo in Efficient and Sustainable Global Logistics Operations, FP7, 2011 –is adva2015)ncing and