Responding to urban change

As the volume of parcels delivered across many cities increases, the rising van and lorry traffic is adding to existing congestion, carbon emissions and air quality issues in urban areas. This also creates significant planning problems for logistic companies and impacts on their tight delivery schedules.

The C321 Swift Express Freight, therefore, offers an alternative option: fast and reliable rail services to encourage modal shift and contribute toward the target of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Jonathan Brown, Ricardo's Technical & Innovation Engagement Lead (Rail) oversaw the project's design work. “It’s been immensely enjoyable to be part of the team with Eversholt Rail and Wabtec," he said. "The project required significant collaboration between all stakeholders to successfully deliver a viable solution within the time-scale. I can’t wait to see the vehicle in service and making a positive impact on sustainable logistics.”

Andy Derbyshire, Group Managing Director, Wabtec UK said: “It is great to see the recent efforts of our collaboration with Eversholt Rail and Ricardo come to fruition. Our team in Doncaster has done a superb job delivering this important milestone project and we look forward to seeing the train produce genuine carbon and cost reductions.”