FAST-SEC (Feasibility of Automated trailer movers at drop-zones for laST mile logistics of Super Eco Combis)

A Super Eco Combi (SEC) is a vehicle combination in which one tractor pulls two full size semitrailers through a converter dolly, reaching around 32 meters and 72 tones. Thus SEC can move as much cargo as two standard tractor semitrailers with a single driver, lowering congestion by 40% and cutting fuel use and emissions by upto 30%. One of the problem which stalls their implementation is that many logistics hubs cannot accept the full length in terms of infrastructure, so solution proposed was the trailers could decouple at drop zones and shunted by extra tractors and drivers, which could encroach on their benefits . FAST SEC proposes compact electric trailer movers with autonomous navigation and teleoperation that tow the detached trailer over the final 1-2 kms, keeping infrastructure changes minimal and possibly preserving SECs efficiency. HAN University of Applied Sciences and its SME partners VTron, Bolk Transport and Distribute will build a digital shadow with verified vehicle dynamics, control logic and layout scenarios, allowing the team to assess performance and safety giving necessary adaptations insights before any field trials. The study will deliver a verified simulation platform and performance map for industry and road authorities (Rijkswaterstaat) on adopting SEC with automated trailer handling.