'Mini' freight trains bid to cut congestion
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• by Guy Sheppard A form of "mini" freight train capable of travelling at up to 75mph is to be developed with government backing in a bid to reduce congestion on both road and rail.
The trains, called Freight Multiple Units (FMUs), are said to be faster and more flexible than conventional freight trains and will carry up to 160 tonnes, a load equivalent to that of five top-weight trucks, in standard containers.
Logistics group Exel is developing the system as part of a consortium that has won £2.1m towards the development costs from the government's Strategic Rail Authority. Exel makes little use of rail, but a spokeswoman says: "We want to give our customers as many opportunities as we can for them to be as efficient as they can. We are developing our air and sea freight, and looking at rail freight as well."
A prototype of the train will go on show later this year. One of the key advantages is the reduced time and space it takes up on the rail network, which is under constant pressure from growing passenger and freight movements.
This is because there is no need for large interchange areas, as the trains can be driven from either end and their acceleration matches that of the latest passenger trains. FMUs will be able to link together to form larger freight trains if necessary.
The role of the consortium, which also includes Amec and Isutrak, is to confirm that the idea is cost-effective.
An unnamed food and drink manufacturer is already lined up to trial the special rolling stock that will be needed. An on-board global positioning system will be used to inform customers about the progress of their deliveries.
A web site, wyekrallfreight online.com, is already operating; it will eventually be developed to include daily performance figures and castings.