For over a year, the EcoDuo vehicle combination was in operation between Wolfsburg, Lehrte and Barcelona. The project consortium, consisting of VDA, Schmitz Cargobull, Sesé, Kombiverkehr, Volkswagen Group Logistics and TÜV Rheinland, now considers the concept practical.
The EcoDuo comprises two standard semi-trailers connected by a dolly and pulled by a tractor unit. At 31.70 metres in length and with a permissible total weight of 40 tonnes (44 tonnes in combined transport), the combination meets all technical requirements. Its advantage: unlike earlier long lorries, this combination can be easily integrated into combined transport, as both trailers are standard dimensions and can be loaded onto rail.
More volume, fewer journeys
The concept promises several advantages: more transport volume per journey, fewer emissions, fewer trips, and relief for the driver shortage. The EcoDuo is particularly suitable for high-volume transports such as textiles, car parts or packaged goods.
“The pilot project clearly shows that the concept can be integrated into existing structures and is both ecologically and economically viable,” said VDA Managing Director Andreas Rade.
The test was also successful on rail. The two trailers could be loaded without technical adaptations. Only the terminals will need to adapt for coupling and decoupling, and ensure sufficient shunting space in future.
Legal hurdles in focus
However, the EcoDuo still relies on special permits in Germany. To begin regular operation, the regulation on exceptions for extra-long vehicles needs to be amended.
The consortium is calling for the introduction of a new vehicle type – “Type 6” – which would allow combinations up to 32 metres. Operation should be limited to a clearly defined designated network, mainly covering combined transport terminals.
Implications for the industry
While in Spain and Scandinavia several hundred EcoDuo combinations are already in use, approval in Germany now depends on political will. TÜV Rheinland is currently evaluating the project data scientifically. If the legal framework is adjusted, freight forwarders and fleet managers could soon start planning deployments.
For the industry, the EcoDuo offers new opportunities: greater capacity per journey, reduced CO₂ emissions and more efficient use of scarce driver resources. But without clear regulations, the concept remains a future option. It is now up to policymakers and regulators to turn the pilot project into a regular transport solution.
