Contemporary discussions on the future of transportation focus on the possibility of allowing the movement of longer trailers, which is a response to concerns about heightened competition from rail carriers. The initiative concerns the introduction of 25.25-meter-long trailers, known as gigaliners or EMS (European Modular System), which could significantly contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It is anticipated that two gigaliner units will replace three traditional lorries.
It is emphasized that although rail transport is important, it is less flexible, often necessitating the use of road transport, especially on the so-called “first and last mile”. The experiences of countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden, which have allowed the use of longer and heavier EMS trailers, demonstrate a positive impact on emission reduction and transport efficiency.
In the context of legislative changes, the European Parliament has decided to increase the maximum weight of trucks from 40 to 44 tons to facilitate the introduction of electric vehicles, which may be less competitive due to battery weight.
The European Commission argues that gigaliners can generate up to 30% lower greenhouse gas emissions per ton-kilometer compared to trucks with only trailers. It is also expected that allowing longer vehicles will reduce the demand for professional drivers, of whom there is already a shortage of 400,000 in Europe, posing a serious problem for the European transport industry and the economy as a whole.
Furthermore, the European Parliament has allowed the transport of EMS sets weighing up to 60 tons in cross-border journeys, while also emphasizing compatibility with intermodal transport. It is worth noting that the acceptance of legislative changes does not end the process but will be subject to negotiations with the European Commission and the EU Council.
It is important that decisions regarding the approval of longer and heavier transport sets are made considering various aspects and industry interests. “Approval does not mean an immediate increase in the number of gigaliners on the roads or a shift of transportation from rails to roads. Therefore, both the limitations and advantages of each transport branch should be taken into account to avoid creating administrative and legal barriers to the implementation of more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions,” emphasizes PISiL in this regard.
This initiative is also supported by the European Association of Freight Forwarders, CLECAT, although rail carriers and their organizations hold opposing views.