The test, run in cooperation with the Ukrainian State Railways (UZ), connects Ukraine to ÖBB’s intermodal network TransNETat.
“The new connection between Kyiv and Vienna with a stop in Budapest offers the first regular, high-frequency intermodal connection between Ukraine and the numerous hubs in Central Europe,” boasts the Austrian rail freight operator.
The test train traveled from Kyiv to the BILK Rail Cargo Terminal in Hungary at the end of September, and successfully transported non-cranable semi-trailers with building materials by rail.
Until now, the non-crane semi-trailers on this route were transported exclusively by truck.
ÖBB Rail Cargo Group says this development is not only a plus for the environment, but also relieves the current tense situation regarding the shortage of truck drivers.
The service is made possible by roadrailLink technology developed by the wagon rental company VTG together with its partner VEGA. The solution makes loading non-crane semi-trailers of any kind “economically feasible,” argues ÖBB. This means that non-cranable trailers can be craned and can be used for combined transport.
“The fully galvanized r2L solution is a platform that can be lifted vertically into and out of a double pocket truck using terminal cranes or reach stackers,” says ÖBB Rail Cargo Group.