UK: New simulators support cutting edge rail training 
GB Railfreight (GBRf) is investing in two new state-of-the-art simulators for its new training school in Peterborough (UK). At a total cost of GBP 850,000 (EUR 973,000), they will be the UK’s first and only full cab freight European rail traffic management system (ERTMS) capable... more
General cargo networks to merge
Palletways wants to acquire a stake in Germany-based VTL. Experts say that the move will unite the companies’ general cargo networks. The merger aims to provide better coverage in Germany. VTL has 90 and Palletways more than 70 national depots. Delivery areas can be... more
More hybrid locomotives for Europe
Stadler Rail has signed a contract with the Swiss leasing company European Loc Pool (ELP) for ten more Eurodual hybrid freight locomotives. The batch is part of a framework contract covering up to 100 locomotives, according to the rolling stock manufacturer. The locomotives... more
PTC interoperability is a challenge
The class I US rail road Union Pacific (UP) has implemented positive train control (PTC) on 937 route kilometres, thus raising its required PTC-operated route kilometres to 21,882 or 80%. The railway will continue its implementation efforts to ensure PTC interoperability... more
New electronics to maintain safe distances
Switzerland: Volvo Trucks has introduced a safety function named “distance alert” that makes it easier for truck drivers to maintain a safe distance to the vehicles in front. Rear-end collisions account for around 20% of all the serious crashes in which trucks are involved.... more
Locomotives banging the drum for Europe
Say yes to Europe" in eye-catching lettering now adorns yet another locomotive operated by TX Logistik. The latest locomotive to bear this motif is a Vectron multi-system locomotive that TX Logistik has leased from European Locomotive Leasing (ELL). The unit is equipped... more
Launch of direct Vienna - Trelleborg rail service
Stena Line is augmenting the rail-based logistics services it offers on land. Since May, the ferry operator, in collaboration with RCA and Green Cargo, began offering fixed slots on train ferries to transport direct freight trains from Vienna to Trelleborg (Sweden). The service... more
New vehicles for handling bigger volumes
DHL in the UK is investing GBP 6.7 million (EUR 7.7 million) in an upgrade to its fleet of trucks and trailers to gain additional handling capacity to support future growth. The investment includes 45 Volvo tractor units, 24 Volvo rigid trucks and 29 Don-Bur double deck... more
25th annual chemical safety awards allocated
The US class I railway CSX recently presented 70 customers with its annual chemical safety excellence award for their commitment to the safe transport of hazardous materials. Each year, these awards recognize customers who safely ship more than 600 carloads of hazardous... more
China pressing on with TIR implementation
The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) has taken the momentous decision to fully open all its checkpoints to international road transport under TIR as from 25 June 2019, according to the International Road Union (IRU). During a meeting between the IRU and... more