SMARTFREIGHT

Traffic management and freight distribution systems interoperability

This EC-funded project of the 7th Framework Programme wants to make urban freight transport more efficient, environmentally friendly and safe through enhanced coordination between traffic and freight distribution management:

• Today, it is not possible to take traffic management measures towards freight vehicles, based on information about the current traffic situation, the profile of vehicles, the amount and type of cargo
• Scarcity of loading and unloading areas in city centres, and sub-optimal delivery routes negatively influence the efficiency
• Freight distributors do not benefit from more reliable traffic information and are not rewarded for "desired behaviour" such as the use of back-load and green vehicles
• Freight distribution management in city centres is usually operated by several commercial companies and there is no coordination of these activities in a way that would benefit the city

The main aim of SMARTFREIGHT is therefore to specify, implement and evaluate ICT solutions that integrate urban traffic management systems with the management of freight and logistics in urban areas. Based on the CALM framework, freight distribution vehicles will be controlled and supported by means of wireless communication infrastructure and on-board and on-cargo equipment.

The SMARTFREIGHT project started in January 2008 for a duration of 30 months.

If you would like to know more about this project, please click here.

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