Parallel Systems has launched trials of its autonomous rail platforms on a 3.2 km isolated section in Georgia to test the operation of empty carts and electronic systems. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Parallel Systems has launched trials of its autonomous rail platforms on a 3.2 km isolated section in Georgia to test the operation of empty carts and electronic systems
Photo: Parallel Systems

The tests are being conducted on a low-traffic line owned by Genesee and Wyoming (G&W) under the supervision of the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The focus is on verifying the reliability of telemetry and unmanned control systems.

Don’t miss…Kazakhstan Reforms the Freight Rail Transport Market

Parallel Systems, a U.S. startup, has developed electric carts capable of autonomously transporting a single container. Each unit has two axles, runs on battery power, and operates in tandem with a matching module.

Stages of the Parallel Systems Testing Program

The testing program includes seven phases. In the final stage, engineers plan to link several platforms into a convoy and conduct a trial freight delivery over a 257.5 km section.

The FRA has approved the full testing structure. This phased approach allows developers to evaluate how the vehicles perform under different conditions and to identify any weaknesses in control or communication systems.

Parallel Systems Expands Its Testing Geography

Simultaneously, similar trials are underway in Australia. Infrastructure operator Arc Infrastructure is testing the same system on remote rail lines to evaluate its suitability in sparsely populated regions.

According to the developers, this technology aims to reduce carbon emissions and ease congestion on both highways and conventional rail lines. Battery-electric traction and driverless operation are key elements of the concept.

If the platform proves reliable, the U.S. could take a major step toward widespread adoption of autonomous freight transportation—paving the way for a more sustainable logistics future.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Alstom Strengthens Traxx Fleet with New Akiem Service Deals

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit