Arc developed the concept with Westport in mind, utilising existing technology from numerous industries and applying them to a rail scenario. With support from technology consultancy
Interfuze, Arc delivered a concept of operations in late 2021.
The LLOS identified autonomous rail container wagons as one of the most prospective innovations in enabling a more efficient and sustainable logistics network in the future.
Arc is now focused on continuing the development of our autonomous rail container wagon and will share our findings with Westport as part of their next phase, the
Supply Chain Integrated Design project (SCID).
The SCID consortium, led by
WSP Australia, will model and refine design options for the new port, and supporting road and rail networks, contributing to the delivery of a Westport Business Case by mid-2024.
Arc Infrastructure Chief Executive Officer Murray Cook said after spending more than two years developing the concept it is exciting to see Westport embrace the opportunity to further examine the benefits autonomous rail container wagons could deliver to the future port.
“Westport presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to incorporate new technologies that could dramatically improve port and supply chain efficiency.
“We are delighted that the idea to explore autonomous rail container wagons is being considered, and we look forward to contributing to the Supply Chain Integrated Design project,” Mr Cook said.