Truck Freight vs. Rail Freight – the next round

Environmental studies usually came to the conclusion that rail is generally the better and preferable environmental transport solution. In our recent study we demonstrated that a general statement, i.e. that rail is more environmentally friendly than road, cannot be made.

In the upcoming update focusing on Germany, we took into account most recent data available from rail companies. The results of the update confirm the findings of our previous study. A new case study, investigating the shift from road to rail of long-distance freight transport over distances beyond 300 kilometres, as proposed in the EU White Paper, revealed that CO2 emissions of rail and truck are in the same magnitude.

Depending on specific case parameter such as load factor, empty trips, precarriage and oncarriage either truck or rail performs better. This is a fact underlining our claim that a case-to-case investigation is required. 

Read the summary of the study 

For more information please contact Michael Spielmann

Climate effects of rail and road

Rail and waterway transport are commonly considered better environmental performers than road transport in the carriage of goods. But the validity of such general statements is limited, as a new study of PE INTERNATIONAL shows. Considering the national combined transport road transport is comparable with rail and in some cases even better.
Read more and download the study