METRANS’ car carrier could be the next breakthrough in automotive logistics

Europe’s car manufacturing sector relies on one thing more than any other: the railways.  Moving new vehicles around in bulk is a major logistics operation, requiring specialist loading ramps and dedicated rolling stock. That, however, may be about to change with an ingenious yet simple new solution. It’s time to meet the Car Carrying Container.

Metrans, the pan-European rail logistics operator, has been testing what they call their Car Carrier Containers (CCC). Except, they’re not quite containers but more like the skeleton of a 20-foot equivalent unit, minus the roof bars. In other words, a lightweight and convenient way to carry two cars in the space of a single TEU, albeit with a slightly higher loading gauge.

Considerable capital investment

Conventional car carriers have been a common sight on European railways for decades. However, the rolling stock has only one use and represents a considerable capital investment, such as the car carriers used by DB Cargo UK for their Toyota contracts. That’s why a significant proportion of vehicle transport needs are met with road trailers, specially designed for the job but versatile enough to reach individual customers. As easy as delivering a shipping container. What, though, if car transport could be as versatile as delivering an intermodal container?

Metrans, in collaboration with SSC Railtech GmbH of Graz, Austria, has been testing a unique cradle design capable of being loaded with two cars, double-decked. The cradles are compatible with conventional intermodal loading equipment and sit on conventional intermodal wagons. The compatibility with multi-purpose equipment may well give the CCC a competitive edge and make last-mile deliveries possible with flatbed road trailers.

Testing and presentations

Testing started back in February when Metrans Dunajská Streda terminal in southern Slovakia took delivery of the four prototype units. “Partnering with SSC Railtec GmbH, we put these giants through their paces in a series of loading tests,” said Peter Kiss, CEO at Metrans. “Car manufacturers can now load their vehicles directly onto our intermodal units and send them off by road or rail, knowing their valuable cargo is safe.”

With reach stackers or gantry cranes, the so-called piggy bags, doing the heavy lifting, Metrans say there is no risk of damage during loading operations. The cradles themselves are robust, reinforced steel. They are rated for a load of 4.2 tonnes – enough to carry two saloons, including heavier electric models. Refining the CCC units’ design has incorporated height adjustment and the ability to stack empty units three high. The design means car dealerships don’t even have to remember which deck to unload first. “We’re moving forward with testing and presentations by our customer, by our partners, by the European ports,” said Peter Kiss. “We’re planning to get the units out on the rails soon, and then we’ll be ready to take them to the market.”