Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
Joint Call for Transport Intermodality Additional Information on Tasks
Introduction to the descriptions of the tasks open in the Joint Call Implementing a European intermodal transport system requires co-ordinated development of transport policy and research on European, national and regional level. The Commission has taken several steps in recent years towards improved knowledge of the obstacles and promotion of solutions for increased use of intermodal transport through research and development funded by the European Community. The general objective of the Commission‟s research and development effort in the field of intermodal transport is to support the development of a framework for an optimal integration of the different modes in the transport chain. A more efficient and cost-effective use of the transport system is enhanced through this integration, as door-to-door services are strengthened, as competition between transport operators increases and as technology advances. Intermodality concerns both transport of freight and passengers. The importance of a well functioning public passenger transport in Europe was highlighted by the Commission in the 1995 Green Paper on the Citizens‟ Network1. Improved planning, operational capabilities and increased research activities can bring the public transport system into better balance and enhance its attractiveness thus promoting the intermodal approach. In 1995, the Commission launched the Task Force Transport Intermodality in response to the need to stimulate and improve the co-ordination of European research and to increase industry participation with the aim of bridging the gap between the scientific and the operational world. The Task Force has greatly assisted the Commission in defining a consistent European market-oriented approach to intermodal research requirement. The Task Force has produced a list of priorities that both represent basic needs for intermodality from an operational point of view and the missing elements in corresponding research and technological development from a scientific point of view. Furthermore, the Commission has launched clustering activities, with the participation of more than 50 project managers representing projects from the Transport, Telematics Application and Industrial Technologies Programmes. These projects are dealing with the concept of intermodality from an operational, technical, scientific, organisational and/or administrative point of view.
1
“The Citizens‟ Network - Fulfilling the potential of public passenger transport in Europe”, COM(95) 601 final.
1
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
The group of highly experienced researchers and industry representatives gave their feedback, based on experience with European funded research projects and findings in the field of European intermodal transport. In 1997, the Commission released a communication2 on intermodal freight transport, which is closely linked to the follow-up on intermodal transport research. In this communication, the Commission proposes an action plan to enhance intermodality. As a result of the clustering exercise and the Task Force priorities, future research requirements have been defined. The industry feedback showed a need to launch rather large demonstration projects, in order to create more visual results linked to the day to day operations. Another clearly defined demand from the intermodal experts was the increased requirement to exploit the research through broadened dissemination and exploitation activities. A supplementary budget of 12 Million ECU has now been allocated by the Council and the Parliament to the theme of transport intermodality. This amount will be used for funding innovative intermodal transport projects which will integrate and demonstrate in real-life the results of previous or on-going research. The present call for proposals is organised jointly by the RTD Programmes for Transport and Telematics Applications. This joint call for proposals will further strengthen the synergy between two intimately linked sectors, namely transport and telematics. Five tasks have been defined for the present joint call. The four demonstration tasks aim at integrated demonstration projects with a European added value and a clearly innovative character. Proposals can include topics from different tasks in one project proposal. Proposed projects should have a sufficiently generic nature so that results can be transferred across Europe. Attention should also be paid to the composition of consortia, which should consist of an appropriate mix between industry, operators, users, authorities and research organisations. Approximately 10 Million ECU of the available budget would be allocated to the four demonstration tasks (1 to 4). As high-profile demonstration projects are sought and as the available budget is rather limited, the Commission would expect to fund a very limited number of projects. With regard to Task 5, one sub-task (5.3) is oriented towards the Telematics Applications Programme, while the others (5.1, 5.2, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6) are in the realm of the Transport RTD Programme. Interested proposers are recommended to consult the evaluation guidelines which have been drafted specifically for this joint call for proposals. They are available upon request from the European Commission.
2
“Intermodality and Intermodal Freight Transport in the European Union”, COM(97) 243 final, Brussels, 29.05.1997.
2
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
All information regarding the joint call and the Task Force Transport Intermodality can be consulted via the Internet on the Task Force‟s home page: http://www.cordis.lu/transport/src/task.htm Information about the joint call and the Telematics Programme can also be consulted at: http://www.echo.lu/telematics Further information regarding the specific tasks for the joint call can be obtained from the Commission. Relevant contact persons are listed on the above-mentioned web sites.
3
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 1:
INTEGRATED DEMONSTRATION PROJECT OF INNOVATIVE INTERMODAL DOOR TO DOOR FREIGHT SERVICES ON SHORT AND MEDIUM DISTANCES
Problem Description Intermodal transport in Europe today seems unable to meet the increasingly complex logistics requirements of a transport market which operates in a very competitive environment. Transport demand is mainly on short distance, transfers between modes generally create too many friction costs and do not allow sufficient scope to offer value added services in the door-to-door chain. An optimal use of infrastructure across the different modes, a rational and environmental-friendly final and initial distribution of goods and an efficient terminal operation will become imperative, particularly in view of the future growth of freight transport. New concepts and technologies developed in previous RTD must now be demonstrated in an integrated manner to facilitate their take-up by the market. Objectives To demonstrate the actual possibilities and limits of making intermodal freight transport more attractive on short (less than 200 km) and medium (less than 500 km) distances, and to identify the conditions for making it viable. Approach An international, multipartner consortium should include transport and/or terminal operators, end users and industrial parties. The demonstration project should integrate those of the following elements which present the highest potential for innovation and improvement of the system‟s performance: use of new or existing technologies, transport means, equipment and loading units for a cost-effective integration of different modes in short and/or medium-distance “door-to-door” transport chain; integration of line transport services with urban freight distribution to complete the door-to-door transport chain; integration of flexible and modular mode-to-mode transfer concepts adaptable to traffic flows, geographical areas, size and specialisation of terminals and loading units; organisational concepts for rationalising the number of shipments and procedures, including implementation of strategies for integrated tariffs and payment systems, and testing of alternative intermodal transport service concepts, including logistical functionalities; adaptation of the management and control systems, or parts of them, to the different combined transport systems (shuttle, feeder, etc), including interfaces of procedures and information flows (notably interfaces between parties including customs); identification of opportunities and proposals for rationalisation of tracing and tracking information, procedures and costs in relation to the various actors in the logistic chains. Consideration of economical conditions of the intermodal transport market.
4
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
The demonstration project should have a global/integrated approach: it should consider a whole transport chain, should also integrate the results (concepts and technologies) of previous RTD projects (see below, under “Relevant EU Research Projects”). The system architecture aspects of the proposal, although obviously limited to the specific scope of the proposal, should take into account the need to arrive at a common system architecture (cf. Task 5.3). The selected projects will be expected to follow the continuing efforts to this effect by relevant projects. Type of action: Shared Cost Timing: 2 to 3 years Links to specific RTD programme: Transport - Integrated Transport chains: Task 3.1/4 network control Telematics Applications for Transport: TR 2.2 Integrated management systems, and TR 2.7 Validation Relevant EU Research Projects: Transport RTD Programme: SIMET, IMPULSE, IQ, IMPREND, TERMINET, SCANDINET, OSIRIS, ROLLING-SHELF, TACTICS, EUROSIL, OCTOPUS, INTRARTIP, REFORM. Telematics Applications for Transport: MULTITRACK, TRACAR, COMETA, INTACT Industrial Materials and Technologies: FLIHTT
5
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 2:
DEMONSTRATION OF NEW CONCEPTS FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF GOODS IN METROPOLITAN AREAS AT PRE- AND END-PHASES OF AN INTERMODAL TRANSPORT LEG.
Problem description One of the major bottlenecks in using intermodal transport is the management of the distribution of goods at the pre- and end-phases of the transport chain. In this part of the chain, costs are relatively high and service levels are not sufficient. An optimal use of all infrastructure, a rational and environmentally friendly final and initial distribution from terminals will become imperative, particularly in the view of the future growth of freight transport. This will lower the barriers for companies, especially small and medium -sized ones, to offer intermodal transport services, thus leading to an increase of the use of intermodal transport. New concepts and techologies developed in previous RTD must now be demonstrated in an integrated manner to facilitate their take-up by the market. Objectives To demonstrate the possibilities to improve the distribution of goods within metropolitan areas and between intermodal transport terminals/freight centres and metropolitan areas. Approach An international multipartner consortium should include transport and/or terminal operators, end users and industrial parties. The demonstration project should integrate those of the following elements which present the highest potential for innovation and improvement of the system‟s performance: integration of innovative technological and/or organisational concepts for pick-up and delivery operations, including the possible use of new vehicle technologies, and innovative transhipment solutions and specific terminal equipment; the role, geographic organisation and operational management of freight hubs for distribution of goods in metropolitan areas and multi-site and multi-operator cooperation; terminal gate procedures, gate automation and identification methods using appropriate telematics tools (improvement of physical access to terminals); application of telematics technologies within and between freight centres/terminals and between the various parties involved in goods distribution (terminal operators, consignees and destination points), taking into account the traffic conditions in metropolitan areas; integration of logistics and value added economic activities in intermodal terminals/urban freight centres, (such as storage, packaging, customising, maintenance,...); rationalisation of the use of loading units (small boxes...), vehicles and infrastructure; strategies for delivery and pick-up, including operational strategies and the use and enforcement of regulations for distribution of goods within metropolitan areas.
6
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
The demonstration project should have a global/integrated approach. It should integrate the results (concepts and technologies) of previous RTD projects. (see below, under “Relevant EU Research Projects”). The system architecture aspects of the proposal, although obviously limited to the specific scope of the proposal, should take into account the need to arrive at a common system architecture (cf. Task 5.3). The selected projects will be expected to follow the continuing efforts to this effect by relevant projects. Type of action: Shared cost Timing: 2 to 3 years Links to specific RTD programme: Telematics Applications for Transport: TR 2.7 Validation Transport - Integrated Transport Chains: Task 3.2/5 terminal access Transport - Urban: Task 5.3/21 freight platforms and organisation Transport - Urban: Task 5.3/22 urban freight transport management Relevant EU Research Projects: Transport RTD Programme: LEAN, IMPREND, REFORM, TACTICS, FV 2000, IMPULSE Telematics Applications for Transport: SURFF Industrial Materials and Technologies: FLIHTT Cost actions: COST 321
7
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 3:
DEMONSTRATION PROJECT INTEGRATING CONCEPTS, TECHNOLOGIES AND SERVICES FOR IMPROVING INTERURBAN INTERMODAL PASSENGER TRANSPORT IN A DOOR-TO-DOOR CHAIN
Problem description If the intermodal passenger transport system is to offer an effective, efficient and attractive alternative to individual motorized transport, it must be designed and operated in such a way that it meets the needs and expectations of its potential customers, and also of society as a whole. This depends for a large part on the quality of the individual components of the intermodal transport system and on how these are integrated, on the supporting telematics applications, but also on well balanced packages of supporting push and pull measures. Many new concepts and technologies have already been developed in previous or ongoing RTD projects or on national level, but they have not yet been extended to European level and validated and assessed in an integrated way. Objectives The objective of this task is to develop and to validate on a large scale systems and services, the integration of telematics applications, as well as new organisational and financial concepts, in order to: assess the benefits and limits of inter-urban intermodal passenger transport; make recommendations for implementing successful intermodal transport systems and services; develop integrated on-line interactive multimedia telematics services which offer travellers, planning a trip with an important rail segment, consistent information on a range of modal and intermodal services throughout Europe, ensuring interoperability with other information, ticketing and reservation systems of rail and other modes provided at different geographical levels. The developments and validations should be supported by relevant policies that promote intermodal transport. The validation-locations should already have existing infrastructure and should allow the integration of new technologies, applications and services. Impact assessment is expected on social and financial issues, modal split, environmental effects, awareness raising, accessibility and acceptability, market potential and on organisational, legal and institutional issues. Proposed approach Inter-urban development and demonstration projects should integrate those of the following elements which present the highest potential for innovation and improvement of the system‟s performance:: planning and design of the passenger transport and information network as a coherent system; provide a range of potential on-line multimedia information. The potential of allowing access to and from tourist services and other functions should be explored; provision and integration of a range of integrated telematics intermodal services, including baggage handling, travel information, ticketing, payment and reservation;
8
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
provision of intermodal transport and information services/operations, through the
implementation of new technical, organisational, financial and management solutions and the development of prototype systems to demonstrate technical feasibility; identification of barriers to successful implementation, and recommendations as to how they may be overcome. Proposals for implementation strategies considering all relevant factors including data sources/ownership and finance, taking into account developments that already exist in other transport modes such as road or air transport. Type of action: shared cost Timing: 2 years Links to specific RTD programmes: Transport RTD Programme: several tasks in the road and urban sectors. Telematics Applications for Transport: tasks TR 1.1 - 1.8, 4.2 Relevant EU initiatives/projects: Telematics Applications for Transport: CITHER-INTHER, EUROTRACS, INFOPOLIS, INFOTEN, PROMISE, SAMPO, SCRIPT, VADEMECUM. Transport RTD Programme: INTRAMUROS, ICARO, DIATS, EUROTOLL, TASTE.
9
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 4:
DEMONSTRATION PROJECT INTEGRATING CONCEPTS, TECHNOLOGIES AND SERVICES FOR IMPROVING INTERMODAL PASSENGER TRANSPORT WITHIN URBAN CENTRES IN A DOOR-TO-DOOR CHAIN
Problem description If the intermodal passenger transport system is to offer an effective, efficient and attractive alternative to individual motorized transport, it must be designed and operated in such a way that it meets the needs and expectations of its potential customers, and also of society as a whole. This depends for a large part on the quality of the individual components of the intermodal transport system and on how these are integrated, on the supplying telematics applications, but also on well balanced packages of supporting push and pull measures. Many new concepts and technologies have already been developed in previous and ongoing RTD projects, but they have not yet been validated and assessed in an integrated way. Objectives The objective of this task is to validate on a large scale the systems and services, the integration of telematics applications, as well as new organisational and financial concepts, in order to: assess the benefits and limits of urban intermodal passenger transport (travel times up to 1 hours), and make recommendations for implementing successful intermodal transport systems and services. These validations should take place at locations where policies have already been implemented that promote intermodal transport. These locations should already have existing infrastructures and should allow the integration of new technologies, applications and services. Impact assessment is expected on social and financial issues, modal split, environmental effects and land-use, awareness raising, accessibility and acceptability, market potential and on organisational, legal, institutional issues. Proposed approach The demonstration project should integrate those of the following elements which present the highest potential for innovation and improvement of the system‟s performance: planning and design of the passenger transport network as a coherent system, provision of intermodal transport services/operations, through the implementation of new technical, organisational, financial and management solutions, reduction of barriers to interchange through better accessibility and improved services, provision and integration of a range of mobility-oriented telematics based value added intermodal services, including baggage handling, travel information, ticketing and payment; improvement of the integrated intermodal transport management system (e.g. demand management, park & ride, collective transport, etc).
10
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
Type of action: shared cost Timing: 2 years Links to specific RTD programmes: Transport RTD Programme: several tasks in the road and urban sectors. Telematics Applications for Transport: tasks TR 1.1 - 1.8, 4.2 Relevant EU initiatives/projects: Transport RTD Programme: INCOME, MUSIC, CAPTURE, OPIUM, TRANSPRICE, CONCERT-P, INTRAMUROS, MOTIF, PIRATE, MIMIC, GUIDE, ISOTOPE, MOMENTUM, MOSAIC, ICARO, PRIVILEGE, TASTE. Telematics Applications for Transport: AUSIAS, CAPITALS, CARPLUS, CONCERT, CROMATICA, EUROSCOPE, ICARE, INFOPOLIS, PROMISE, QUARTET PLUS, SAMPO, SITE, TITAN.
11
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 5:
HORIZONTAL AND SUPPORTIVE TASKS TO PROMOTE EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION AND SERVICE INTEROPERABILITY
TASK 5.1
DEVELOPMENT OF A CONSISTENT METHODOLOGY FOR COLLECTING INTERMODAL FREIGHT TRANSPORT DATA
Problem description The growing demand for transport of people and goods in Europe presents transport users, operators and public authorities with increasing problems, notably concerning cost-effectiveness, congestion and environmental impact. Whereas, in the past, we have tended to think about specific modes of transport, there is a growing recognition that sustainable mobility is about inter-connecting transport systems using door-to door links. This concept of intermodal transport is of increasingly accepted importance and the European Commission strongly supports its development. There is a need for a modern information system to make available information on the weight of the shipment, its volume, the nature of the commodity, the purpose of the shipment, the total distance from true origin to true destination, the routing which is followed, the transport mode used, the complete transit time, the value of the shipment, the value and the price of transportation. This data are impossible to gather and present in a consistent way because of the lack of a mechanism for doing so, and the absence of uniformity in the way details are measured and recorded by those in the transport industry. Objectives The objective of the project is to identify and to monitor the actual transport (door-todoor) flows of goods in complete chains of different transport modes. Transport chains with maritime and/or air stages should be given particular prominence, as currently information in these areas is very incomplete. The project should identify the appropriate sources of information and investigate means for capturing it in the most efficient and profitable way to both data providers and data users. The project should also study the composition of these intermodal chains of transport concurrently with the development of different logistic transport by making the distinction of the so-called logistic families for analysing transport demand. Different products have the same logistic primitive form (equal transportation and distribution patterns) are grouped and modeled in the same way. This method of study could be an important step forward in improving the explanations of freight transport flows. Results of this project will be used in the configuration of the workprogramme of the forthcoming 5th Framework R&D programme. Proposed approach The project through the conduct of a pilot feasibility study comprising actors of the intermodal transport industry, should address the following issues: Definition of the units to be observed (shipment, containers, swap bodies, etc.)
12
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
Definition of the type of information to be collected, elaboration of the appropriate data model for the data collection of intermodal transport and methodology for estimating modal split Identification of the suitable information providers (transporters, major inventory/transport relay centers or depots, operators) as well as of the appropriate information sources Definition of a methodology for data collection (by defining a typology of transport chains for instance) Definition of rules to avoid double counting in official statistics referring to individual transport modes Cartography of the logistic network and the link/transfer points between different modal transport networks in Europe Recommendations on the mechanics for controlling the collection and dissemination of the data on a Europe-wide basis. Review of the costs involved in sustaining a data collection procedure and how this might be supported by commercial exploitation. Assessment of the probable usefulness of the data bank to potential markets governmental, commercial, research. Data available from Eurostat and possible improvements to Eurostat statistics should be taken into account. Type of action : research study Timing : 12 months Relevant EU initiatives/projects: STEMM, INFOSTAT, IQ, EUROSIL.
13
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 5.2
RESEARCH ON THE IMPACT OF STANDARDS FOR LOADING UNITS (TOGETHER WITH CARGOS AND VEHICLES) IN VIEW OF FACILITATING INTERMODAL TRANSPORT SERVICES
Problem Description One of the reasons of the limation of the development of intermodal transport is the large variety of loading units used in the market. This is due to the different needs of market sectors, the specifics of transport modes and the particular characteristics of transport means, national regulations, etc. Harmonisation of standards for sizes, weights and other features across modes will facilitate intermodal transfers for a high proportion of goods to be transported (see also the Communication on Intermodality and Intermodal FreightTransport in the European Union, COM(97)243). Objectives To analyse the bottlenecks and the opportunities for harmonising loading units across transport modes and industries in Europe. Approach The research study should lead to the definition of the best practices and recommendations for harmonisation efforts, and should consider the following issues: assessment of the different types of loading units according to the requirements of intermodal transport and their users; integration of the needs of different market segments; technico-economic and operational requirements: dimensions, weight, identification, transfer, storage; compatability between loading units, transport means and transfer equipments; integration of the needs of the different transport modes (road, rail, inland waterways, deep sea, short sea and air); tendencies for innovation; logistics requirements, including paletisation and the problem of empty hauls; validation of the results with transport operators and users. Type of Action: Research study/Shared cost Action Timing: 6 to 9 months Links to specific RTD programme: Transport - Integrated Transport chains: Task 3.1/3 network operations Relevant EU Research Projects: Transport RTD Programme: SIMET, IMPULSE. Cost actions: COST 310, COST 315.
14
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 5.3
SYSTEMS TOOLS
ARCHITECTURE
:
GENERIC
INTEGRATION
Develop generic tools to facilitate the effective integration of management systems (office-based and on-board) in freight transport. The project should develop an object model and generic interfaces to interconnect internal telematics applications within transport companies and external applications at shippers, multimodal operators and suppliers. Problem description This task description has been derived from the outputs of the panels (DGXIII work programme panels and Intermodal Task Force panels) and other related activities. It is intended as an additional aid to proposers and should not be treated as either a definitive or complete intepretation of the tasks. Objectives To identify and assess the potential organisational and managerial impacts of new technologies in freight operations and related companies. Optimise the matching of telematic related technologies and user needs. Develop management tools which support telematics services in an integrated multimodal multi-operator environment. Complement the ongoing systems architecture work (on-board and within the office) with a generic end-to-end component. Work with the two DG XIII projects (COMETA, INTACT and KAREN) to progress the Freight Systems Architecture element within the Transport Telematics Systems Architecture activities of CONVERGE. [see below, under „Relevant EU Research projects‟] Formally validate all developments. Connection to the projects INTRARTIP, OCTOPUS and X-MODALL (DG VII) is also necessary. Approach New telematics applications for freight transport will require new techniques and programs to support integrated services. Many of these will be in the form of software which will be the interface between telematics and the broader management process. Message communication systems are considered crucial and should support the use of standards (e.g..EDIFACT, CEN TC 278,…). It is envisaged that this task will address the following: i) ii) iii) iv) Review potential of new technologies to support freight operations in the context of past pilot projects and other successful implementations. Identify users and market segments which would be affected by the introduction of new technologies. Monitor representative users with respect to the organisational and managerial tasks involved in using telematics. Identification of the organisational and managerial impacts of new technologies in freight operations.
15
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
v) vi) vii)
Assessment of these impacts: critical success/failure factors. Feedback to the development procedures of new technologies. Development of implementation tool kits.
Proposals are anticipated from two perspectives: those that formally address the modelling issues and validate through a series of example application demonstrations, and those that focus on a specific application whilst developing a more generic model in developing solutions to the chosen specific application. Outputs/Deliverables Definition of requirements for integrated management systems and a market analysis. Developed management tools to support identified telematics. Demonstrate the tools in appropriate user environments. Object Model and System Architecture elements to complement those on-board and in the office. Type of Action: shared cost Timing: 2 years Links to specific RTD programmes Transport - Integrated Transport Chains Task 3.4 for Network Control Transport - Integrated Transport Chains Task 3.7 for Terminal Control Telematics Application for Transport - TR 2.2: Freight transport Relevant EU Research projects Within DG XIII‟s TAP programme, there are three relevant Systems Architecture activities. In addition to the KAREN project, COMETA is developing an on-board architecture for Commercial Vehicles, and INTACT is looking into the architecture and necessary generic tools for within the office environment. All transport telematics projects report their systems architecture developments to the horizontal project CONVERGE which promotes, coordinates and contributes to the development of a practical and useful systems architecture for Transport Telematics systems. CONVERGE also coordinates data exchange (DATEX, EDIFACT,..), common location coding and common technical interface specifications for existing systems. Transport RTD Programme: INTRARTIP, X-MODALL, OCTOPUS.
16
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
Task 5.4
CONDITIONS FOR THE PROMOTION OF A NEW GENERATION OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT SERVICES AND OPERATORS
Problem Description Europe„s transport market is undergoing rapid change and will increasingly see intermodal operators competing with each other across modes and increasing market share. Railway operators will also compete on the traction service side. New Rail Freight Freeways will provide optimum access to the rail infrastructure offering new intermodal perspectives for door to door shipment of goods. The need for a further evolution in the organisation of the supply of intermodal transport services is dependent on the analysis and the establishment of clear conditions for the emergence of new generation operators.(see also the Communication on Intermodality and intermodal freight transport in the European Union. COM 97/243) Objectives To identify the opportunities and the barriers for actors to evolve towards a new generation of door-to-door transport operators and to propose guidelines for their promotion and their establishment in the market. These operators would provide services on a door to door basis and would have a neutral view of the different modes. They would operate in the transport market trying to find the most cost-effective combination of modes to optimise the entire supply chain. The management and control of the complete door to door chain would be an essential element. Approach The research should consider the integration of all modes of transport and should focus on the identification of the obstacles and opportunities that each type of actor faces in order to fulfil intermodal transport functions and meet logistics requirements. It will highlight the commercial, social, technical operational and regulatory areas where there is scope for action by the authorities or the actors involved in the market. The impact of policy actions like the implementation of Directive 91/440 and the opportunities created by the establishment of the Freight Freeways and other national and European initiatives, will have to be analysed. Type of action: Research study/Shared cost action Timing: 6 to 9 months Relevant EU RTD Projects: LOGIQ, IQ, QUATRE-MAINS, EUFRANET.
17
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 5.5
INTEGRATION OF AIR FREIGHT TRANSPORT IN THE INTERMODAL TRANSPORT CHAIN
Problem Description The analysis of the limits and possibilities to serve new markets is a key factor to improve the competitiveness of intermodal transport. The added value of the integration of air transport in the intermodal transport chain is an important step towards the rationalisation and optimisation of goods transport in the EU. The restrictions of night flights, the congestion on the main road axes and the integration of logistics services in the transport cycle present new challenges to develop innovative transport services which will be more reliable, faster and truly competitive in the transport market while at the same time enhancing the sustainability of the transport system. Objectives To investigate the limits and possibilities for the integration of air transport in the intermodal door to door transport chain. Approach The research should focus on the feasibility of intermodal services integrating the freight air transport mode and should consider the following issues/ State of the art; Technical and economic feasibility of intermodal services integrating air transport; Establishment of a potential market for such services in the EU and between the EU and third countries; Integration of intermodal terminals in airports and assessment of the potential of air-rail connections; Compatibility of loading units and transport equipment between the different transport modes; Role of the different actors in the transport chain and of policy makers; Impact of policy measures on the development of intermodal services integrating air transport; Validation of the results with transport operators and end users. Type of action: Research study/Shared cost action Timing: 9 months Relevant EU RTD projects: IQ
18
28.11.97
Task Descriptions
Joint Call on Transport Intermodality
TASK 5.6
IDENTIFICATION OF GOOD PRACTICES AND FURTHER RESEARCH NEEDS FOR INTEGRATED TRANSPORT IN RURAL AND PERIPHERAL AREAS (FREIGHT AND PASSENGERS)
Problem description Slow economic development, environmental deterioration, social exclusion and a limited access to general services including public transport are just some of the many problems that people are facing when living in rural and peripheral areas. In order to preserve and improve the quality of life and the access to mobility in these areas, integrated door-to-door systems for the movement of people and goods are needed. Objectives The main objective is to analyse examples of an intermodal approach to transport planning, operations and services in rural and pheripheral areas. Examples of integration can include mail collection and delivery, delivery of supermarket goods, social services and voluntary service buses, taxi‟s, public transport, school buses and medical services. On the basis of this analysis and discussions with key stakeholders, a possible future research agenda needs to be defined. The work should take into account the benefits from the use of telematics and should pay explicit attention to system-accessibility and to the role of transport for socio-economic development. Proposed approach * identify and analyse examples of good practice and unsuccessful past experiences, with specific attention to legal, financial and organisational barriers and to the role of transport to socio-economic development in these areas; * compare merits of intermodal solutions to unimodal systems and services; * consult key organisations; * identify possible further research needs. Type of action: research study/shared cost action Timing: 12 months Relevant EU initiatives/projects: Transport RTD Programme: none Telematics Applications for Transport: SAMPO, SAMPLUS and SCRIPT. Other: Citizens‟ Network Green Paper and follow up, studies from DG VII/B
19
28.11.97