Parallel Systems, a California-based rail technology company, has completed the initial phase of the first commercial test of its autonomous, self-propelled and battery-electric rail system. The system drove for a total of around 144 kilometres, passing all safety milestones.
The test took place on a 3,2-kilometre rail section in the American state of Georgia. Alongside safety tests, the autonomous rail system was also evaluated for speed, compliance with various speed-related and track occupation limitations, and the system’s handling of multiple concurrent warrants. In addition, the test ensured proper connectivity and safety by verifying communications links and monitors.
Parallel Systems has already launched the second stage of testing. It will take place on a rail section of around 50 kilometres in length that features 43 level crossings. This next test phase will evaluate the system’s performance across various terrains, vegetation and weather conditions, the rail tech company says. “Our specific test activities include speed and position accuracy, stopping distance, audible warnings for grade [level] crossings, and activation of grade crossing warning devices.”
Short-haul freight
With its autonomous rail system, Parallel hopes to offer a new operating model for rail. “By breaking free from the long-train model, we make short-haul freight by rail possible — offering shippers faster service, lower costs, and cleaner operations”, the company wrote on LinkedIn.
The battery-electric vehicles can travel in flexible platoons, Parallel said, and reconfigure quickly to serve different freight needs and routes.
Parallel Systems’ technology eliminates the need for wagons to couple and connect air brake lines. Instead, each wagon has its own self-contained brake system. To reduce aerodynamic drag and improve energy efficiency, vehicles maintain bumper contact and a small air gap between containers by controlling tractive effort.
The platooning process is fully automated, allowing individual wagons to separate and bypass marshalling yards. This enables them to proceed independently to various destinations or keep rail crossings clear.
Parallel was founded in 2020 by a group of former SpaceX engineers. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company aims to increase the utilisation of today’s rail network by converting some of the 940 billion US dollar trucking business to rail.