The MODI project aims to accelerate the adoption of highly automated freight vehicles to improve the efficiency of European logistics chains. The introduction of CCAM is expected to significantly impact the logistics sector by reducing costs, optimising operations, and enhancing overall transport safety and environmental sustainability.
MODI will demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of CCAM technologies through five real-life use cases along a logistics corridor on the TEN-T network from Rotterdam to Oslo. The corridor crosses four national borders and integrates operations at major ports and terminals in Rotterdam, Hamburg, Gothenburg, and Moss. The project seeks to overcome various barriers to the rollout of CCAM, including regulatory, infrastructural and technological challenges. By addressing these areas, MODI aims to pave the way for the adoption of automated freight vehicles across Europe.
The main objectives of MODI include the following key accomplishments:
1. Implementation of state-of-the-art technology: Introducing CCAM technology to the logistics sector and demonstrating its effectiveness through business-oriented and well-integrated systems.
2. Infrastructure and regulatory recommendations: Defining necessary adaptations in infrastructure and vehicle regulations and standards to support the broader deployment of CCAM solutions.
3. Business models and partnerships: Showcasing viable business models and partnerships that highlight the economic benefits of CCAM technologies in logistics.
4. Impact assessments: Conducting technical and socio-economic impact assessments and gap analysis to provide best practices and recommendations for future CCAM implementations.
MODI’s impact pathway is designed to address specific challenges and needs within the logistics sector:
• Demonstrations across the logistics corridor: MODI will enhance societal readiness by showcasing the potential of CCAM technologies in real-world conditions by conducting practical demonstrations along the corridor from Rotterdam to Oslo. This includes integrated terminal operations (e.g. gate access, loading/unloading, vehicle charging), and public road transport in mixed traffic (e.g. motorway, urban areas, hub-to-hub, border crossing).
• Overcoming barriers: MODI will enhance technology readiness by overcoming infrastructure shortcomings and regulatory barriers crucial for successfully deploying automated vehicles on the logistics corridor. Combining vehicle advancements, infrastructure adjustments, and the deployment of C-ITS will enhance the performance of automated freight vehicles.
• Stakeholder collaboration: MODI will enhance market readiness by bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, such as logistics companies, road operators, and vehicle and infrastructure providers, in co-creation processes. This collaboration is vital to bridge the gap between research and market readiness and ensure that CCAM solutions are tailored to real-world needs and conditions.
• Added value for logistics and society: MODI aims to prove that CCAM technologies can deliver significant economic benefits by reducing operational costs, enhancing efficiency and mitigating the effects of driver shortages. Additionally, by utilising battery-electric vehicles and optimising transport operations, these technologies can contribute to reduced emissions and improved environmental sustainability.
The MODI project is expected to impact the logistics sector by setting a benchmark for the future integration of automated freight vehicles in Europe.
