Rolling Highway (RoLa)
The Rolling Highway (RoLa) refers to intermodal transport in which trucks and their drivers are loaded onto special freight trains. The aim is to relieve road traffic, reduce emissions, and at the same time efficiently cover long transport distances.
Fundamentals and How It Works
RoLa transports combine road and rail. Trucks are loaded onto flatcars or specialized wagons and transported over long distances by train. The advantages arise from:
- Reduction of travel time and traffic congestion: Trucks are transported faster and more safely over long distances by rail.
- Protection of the vehicle and cargo: Reduced wear and tear and lower accident risks.
- Integration into the supply chain: RoLa terminals connect road and rail, enabling seamless continuation by road after unloading.
Benefits of the Rolling Highway
- Environmental friendliness: Reduced CO₂ emissions compared to pure road transport.
- Cost reduction: Savings through lower fuel consumption and reduced need for driving personnel.
- Safety: Fewer accidents and lower strain on road infrastructure.
- Flexibility: Compatible with various truck types and cargo types.
Challenges
- Requirement for specialized terminals for loading and unloading.
- Logistical coordination between rail and road is necessary.
- Limited capacity of rail lines can complicate planning.
- Adherence to time windows and freight schedules is critical.
Importance in Modern Logistics
The Rolling Highway is a key component of sustainable transport solutions in Europe, particularly for heavy and long-distance traffic. It relieves roads, reduces transport costs, and helps companies implement more environmentally friendly and efficient logistics processes. In combination with intermodal transport chains, RoLa enables flexible, fast, and secure integration of different modes of transport.