The modular rail mobility concept links different modes of transport. As part of the EU project Pods4Rail, the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) developed an innovative mobility approach for this purpose. Research institutions and companies from seven European countries were also involved. The aim is to provide end-to-end transport for passengers and freight. The aim is to seamlessly connect different modes of transport. Standardised capsules, known as ‘pods’, form the central component of this system.
Flexible transport chains involving multiple modes of transport
The pods can be combined with various carrier units. These carrier units are equipped with a chassis, a propulsion system and a power supply. They also incorporate additional technical systems tailored to the respective mode of transport. This concept thus enables flexible transport chains spanning multiple modes of transport. Passengers and goods do not need to be transferred between vehicles.
Europe’s Rail is developing new mobility solutions
Siemens Mobility coordinated the project, which involved a total of 15 participants. The partners came from seven European countries. The European Union provided funding of around three million euros for the project.
The funding was provided under the Europe’s Rail and Horizon Europe programmes. The DLR was the largest research organisation involved in the project. A total of five DLR institutes took part in the study. They contributed extensive expertise in vehicle development, ranging from rail vehicles to road vehicles. The DLR thus covered key areas of the development chain.
Supermodality: Seamless use of multiple modes of transport
A key concept in Pods4Rail is what is known as ‘supermodality’. It describes seamless mobility across different modes of transport. “Passengers and freight remain in the same pod at all times,” explains DLR researcher Manuel Osebek. Where necessary, the pod is transferred to a different carrier unit.
For example, a capsule might set off on the road. At a junction, it automatically transfers to a rail carrier unit. Together with other capsules, it then covers the main part of the journey. This is intended to allow rail to make the most of its advantages in a particularly efficient manner. These include high capacity and efficient operation. Climate and environmental considerations also play an important role.
Road traffic and the cable car will be integrated
Pods4Rail regards not only rail but also road transport as an important mode of transport. This enables a direct connection to be established right up to the destination. Cable cars were also included in the studies. They can be a useful addition to local transport, particularly in cities.
The concept therefore examines automated transhipment between multiple modes of transport. To achieve this, pods and carrier units must be reliably connected to one another.
Speed, flexibility and comfort are also key priorities. At the same time, the high safety requirements of transport must be met.
The focus is on users’ needs
To begin with, the project team analysed existing intermodal transport systems. It also investigated potential areas of application for Pods4Rail, taking technical and economic criteria into account. Acceptance, comfort and accessibility also played an important role. In addition, the team assessed the environmental impact of potential applications. To this end, the DLR conducted surveys with potential user groups.
In total, the project team identified more than 20 potential use cases. These gave rise to eight specific business scenarios. The potential applications are correspondingly diverse. They range from passenger transport on under-utilised branch lines to logistics. Mobile medical facilities are also a conceivable application. The results were then used to derive technical requirements.
Technical feasibility of the mobility concept
One of the DLR’s key areas of focus was the technical implementation of the concept. To this end, the team investigated various modular and lightweight vehicle structures. Energy requirements were also examined in detail. Other topics included air conditioning and the interfaces between the pod and the chassis. Communication also plays an important role. Vehicles, infrastructure and traffic management must be able to communicate reliably with one another.
The DLR also examined standards and approval procedures. Safety requirements for road and rail were also taken into account. The investigations resulted in functional requirements for the overall system. These formed the basis for further technical development. This included transport cabins, carrier units and automated transhipment systems. Locking systems were also incorporated into the development.
Automated transhipment for flexible transport chains
Automated transhipment is a key component of Pods4Rail. The capsules are designed to be able to switch quickly between different carrier units. This creates a flexible transport chain spanning multiple modes of transport. The capsule remains unchanged throughout the entire journey.
This principle can offer particular advantages when demand fluctuates. It also enables better connections between rural and urban areas. Rail acts as the efficient backbone of the system, whilst road vehicles can handle the first and last legs of the journey.
Pods4Rail is laying the foundations for the next stage of development
Pods4Rail demonstrates new possibilities for connected mobility. The concept links existing transport infrastructures in an innovative way. Of particular interest are under-utilised branch lines and regions with fluctuating demand. Demand-responsive mobility services could be developed in these areas. At the same time, a larger share of transport can be shifted to rail. Direct road connections are maintained.
The project results lay the groundwork for further development steps. These include studies on regulatory approval and economic viability. Integration into existing transport networks will also be examined in greater detail. Furthermore, individual components can be tested on a larger scale in future.
The next step is the follow-up project ‘PREFER’. PREFER stands for ‘Pods and Regional Flexible Efficient Rolling Stock’. The project is expected to start later this year. The DLR will lead the project.
