Objectives of the Article
Rail Freight Decarbonization: Innovations and Economic Assessment

This article aims to provide a structured and in-depth analysis of the technological, regulatory, and economic drivers that can accelerate the decarbonization of rail freight. Although rail transport is, by nature, the most carbon-efficient mode of transportation, it still relies heavily on diesel traction, particularly for freight services. Against a backdrop of stricter climate targets, economic pressures, and logistical transformations, the rail sector’s energy transition can no longer be postponed.

The goal is threefold:

1) Conduct a technical and regulatory assessment of the sector, identifying major trends, structural constraints, and current dynamics related to decarbonization;

2) Provide a comprehensive and comparative overview of available and emerging technologies, their respective areas of application, and their advantages and limitations (electrification, batteries,...