The objectives of the European Union for rail freight are clearly expressed in successive White Papers, particularly the one published in 2011. This expected modal shift, mainly in favour of rail transport, reflects a desire to reverse past trends, in which road transport has become very dominant. In order for this ambition to amount to more than wishful thinking, the EU has sought to develop intra-modal competition to revitalise this sector.

However, in light of the unrelenting strong intermodal competition, mainly from road transport, one cannot help but question the European Union’s objectives. To what extent will rail freight transport be able to expand its relevance?

These topics will be addressed in the 4th TransportNet Railway Seminar “Rail Freight: the Thwarted Ambitions of EU” on March 11, 2016, in Karlsruhe. Presentations will be given by practitioners as well as academics, with ensuing discussions by all participants.

The seminar is free of charge, but registration is compulsory. Full information and registration possibilities are available on the seminar website.