Home News Features Compliance

🕒 Article read time: 2 minutes

Revolutionary iWagon freight train catches Rail Minister's eye  


During a visit to Somerset 16 May 2024, Rail Minister Huw Merriman was introduced to the new iWagon freight train which, it is hoped, will improve rail freight performance through enhanced safety measures, operational efficiencies, and increased wagon availability.  

The iWagon has been developed in a partnership between VTG Rail UK, Mendip Rail, and Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems (UK) and integrates state-of-the-art sensors, data analytics, and automation. Together, these are designed to transform the safety, performance, and reliability standards of rail freight wagons. 

The iWagon features real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities, which increase efficiency by optimising wagon utilisation and reducing downtime. Axle lock detection and Wheel Flat Prevention (WFP) technology monitor wheelset slide and brake condition.  

iWagon2-900x400.png

Generators at the end of the axles provide power to the WFP system and provide power for digital real-time maintenance, temperature monitoring, and harmonics frequency monitoring.  

Logistics UK’s Senior Policy Advisor, Ellis Shelton said: “The iWagon is a groundbreaking development in rail freight technology. It highlights the transformative potential of collaboration and innovation, promising a future where rail transport is more efficient, safer and even more reliable.

"The iWagon sets a new benchmark for the industry, paving the way for continued advancements and improvements in rail freight technology.” 

During the minister’s visit, it was revealed that the 20-year partnership between VTG and Mendip Rail removes the equivalent of 400,000 lorry movements every year from the roads, with a 76% reduction in CO2. 

Merriman added: “I'm a strong supporter of the rail freight sector, which has a huge role to play not only in keeping our economy moving but in an environmentally friendly way too. 

“Exciting new developments like this are a perfect example of the industry using cutting-edge technology to power toward our ambitious growth target.” 

Published On: 30/05/2024 15:00:00

 

Comments Section

If you are a Logistics UK member login to add comments.

There are no comments yet.



Latest articles

"Momentous" Lower Thames Crossing decision, says Logistics UK

Following the announcement by Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander to approve the Development Consent Order (DCO) for the Lower Thames Crossing, Logistics UK Chief Executive David Wells OBE says it will drive growth across the whole economy:

Read time: 2 minutes

View article

Logistics UK responds as chancellor vows to cut red tape in Plan for Change

The Chancellor of the Exchequer published an action plan to cut red tape as part of the government’s Plan for Change on 17 March. This includes actions to tackle complexity and the burden of regulation, reduce uncertainty across the regulatory system, and challenge and shift excessive risk aversion.

Read time: 2 minutes

View article

Logistics UK gives evidence to EFRA Committee on EU to GB trade

Nichola Mallon, Logistics UK's Head of Trade and Devolved policy was in Westminster on 25 March to highlight border control challenges for the sector.

Read time: 2 minutes

View article

Next page

There's a new van in town...

E-news archive

You can also view our e-news archive here.

E-news archive

Interested in Membership?

Get in contact using the Membership Enquiry Form.

Membership Enquiry Form

Logistics Magazine Portal

The hub for finding relevant and informative features, news & compliance guides from Logistics Magazine

Logistics Magazine Portal Home

Sponsorship Opportunities

Learn more about advertising on the new digital Logistics Magazine, with a variety of advert options to reach 30,000 relevant readers.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Magazine Contents

News

Logistics Magazine will cover all the latest news on stories breaking in the industry, including developments on COVID-19,  Brexit, Clean Air Zones, transport law and decarbonisation.

News

Features

Our frequent features will tackle the broader issues affecting logistics such as the COVID-19 vaccination programme, technology and innovation, the political and economic landscape, global trade and the drive to reduce emissions across all transport modes.

Features

Compliance

Each month we explore a different topic in depth in our popular Compliance section, while each week we will publish answers put to our Member Advice Centre team.

Compliance

View Supplements and Previous Printed Editions

View Supplements and previous printed editions of Logistics Magazine here.

Previous