A fully electric rail cargo route between Birmingham and Glasgow has been launched. The partnership between Carousel Logistics and Varamis Rail, the UK's first electric-only express rail freight operator, will see former passenger trains converted to carry cargo at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour.
The new route is expected to save 1,350 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year, and will connect the two cities in around four hours. It is part of Carousel Logistics' commitment to sustainability, and follows its recent investment in Electron, a battery-run electric aircraft that will enable zero-emission, point-to-point air freight deliveries across Europe.
"The introduction of this zero-emission route out of Birmingham, our primary UK hub, is a real win-win for us," said Andrew Lowery, managing director UK, Carousel Logistics. "Not only does this high-speed electric train drive our journey toward carbon neutrality, it is also faster than the diesel-fuelled alternatives.
"We're looking forward to expanding our partnership with Varamis Rail as they add more capacity to this route, and sustainably connect more British cities."
The new route is a significant step forward for the freight industry, and is a sign of the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. It is also a boost for the UK economy, as it will help to reduce emissions and create jobs.
"Carousel Logistics has been instrumental in helping us design a route that meets the needs of time-critical delivery services – for this venture to be successful, it must serve the industry," said Phil Read, managing director, Varamis Rail. "Like ourselves, they're pioneers – their team is innovative and exploring new, green alternatives in a bid to make cargo transport more sustainable."
The launch of the new route is a positive development for the environment and the economy, and it is a sign of the progress that is being made in the fight against climate change. It is also a reminder that there are viable alternatives to fossil fuels, and that we can build a more sustainable future.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the new route is also expected to bring about operational improvements for Carousel Logistics' in-night deliveries. The midnight service will depart just two miles away from the airport and pull into Mossend rail hub terminal at around 4am, which will allow for more efficient and timely deliveries.
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