Transport-related effects of rail-based urban parcel transport: scenario analysis and policy implications

The rapid growth of e-commerce has led to increased parcel volumes, posing challenges for sustainable city logistics. This study evaluates the potential of a combined cargo and passenger tram system as an alternative to light commercial vehicle (LCV) shipments. Empirically extending the agent-based freight demand model ‘logiTopp’, transport-related effects are analyzed through scenario simulations. Results show that a cargo tram can shift LCV mileage to sustainable modes, though the overall shift exceeds saved LCV mileage. The study highlights operational challenges like missing rail access at distribution centres and emphasizes the need for policy incentives to foster the cargo tram’s potential.