X-MODALL - The Optimisation of Modular Intermodal Freight Systems for Europe 2000+
Overview
Background & policy context:
Throughout Europe, intermodal transport currently suffers from poor performance when it comes to timeliness, reliability and costs. Neither the infrastructure conditions nor the current organisational and regulatory frameworks satisfy the perceived requirements to establish truly Integrated Transport Chains (ITC). Contrary to policy statements promoting intermodal transport, a significant crisis is looming for freight transportation generally within the current infrastructure and operating environment. The current modus operandi is just not sustainable in the longer term. Thus there is an urgent need to establish a new framework for Europe, that is capable of delivering fully integrated and optimised freight flows for the future needs of the European Union.
Objectives:
The research study aimed to offer a fully integrated, practical, low cost and low resource solution to improve freight flows radically, in terms of time, reliability, performance and cost, with respect to multi-modal integration.
The main objectives of X-MODALL were to:
- provide the strategy and framework for integrated and high performance European freight networking;
- facilitate an open systems operating environment with prime emphasis on the shipper;
- specify the necessary technology strategy and interfacing protocols;
- develop the software components of the strategy, within a framework of fully integrated, multi-modal and networked services, offering open systems access to all authorised parties and user groups;
- enable both public and private investment to be applied to specific elements;
- assist in further developing EC regional policy and infrastructure.
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