Arc Infrastructure, a key player in Western Australia's rail infrastructure, has unveiled the Hiivr Rail, an autonomous rail container wagon prototype. The product of more than three years of development by Arc Infrastructure, the Hiivr Rail aims to streamline freight logistics in Western Australia, particularly in light of the future Westport. The concept focuses on expediting the movement of containers vessels to a proposed network of intermodal freight terminals, potentially allowing quick access for customers shortly after unloading.
Envisioned as a fleet of individual, battery-powered wagons capable of both independent and collaborative operations, Hiivr Rail could potentially reduce road traffic as the share of rail transport increases. This shift is in line with sustainability objectives and could improve road safety by reducing lorry traffic, coupled with zero greenhouse gas emissions through batteries recharged by renewable energy sources.
“Westport presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to design a port with capability to support emerging technologies which represent the evolution of freight transportation. Hiivr Rail is an exciting new concept that allows us to reimagine the freight supply chain to meet Western Australia’s needs through the 21st century,” said Murray Cook Arc Infrastructure Chief Executive Officer.
Arc plans to conduct mainline trials throughout 2024, focusing on integrating the Hiivr wagon with its train control systems, a critical step towards achieving full operational capability.
