The East-West Gate (EWG) intermodal terminal’s fully integrated digital ecosystem is redefining safety, transparency, and efficiency in logistics. From OCR gates and artificial intelligence to 5G-controlled cranes, every solution is connected through a single platform, giving operators real-time control over the 85-hectare facility.
From the day it opened, the EWG terminal has stood out as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking logistics hubs. Its operations are built on a seamlessly integrated digital infrastructure that links everything from OCR gates and the site’s digital twin to 5G-driven cranes and a central data platform. This enables not only faster and more secure operations, but also an unprecedented level of transparency for customers.
OCR Gates: Automated data capture and damage detection
At the terminal’s entrance, OCR gates instantly record the details of arriving trucks and trains, while AI automatically detects container damage. The system can identify nearly thirty different types of defects, such as punctured sidewalls, greatly supporting staff in inspecting cargo. Full panoramic images are captured for every train and truck, allowing operators to determine whether any damage occurred before or after arrival.
Safety is further reinforced by the Milestone camera system, which continuously monitors the terminal. This intelligent solution goes beyond traffic recording: it also enhances workplace safety by automatically flagging if someone is not wearing mandatory protective gear, such as a helmet or high-visibility vest.
Digital Twin: Real-time visualisation
Taking digitalisation to the next level, a 3D digital twin provides real-time, graphical visualisation of everything happening across the terminal—day or night, in rain or fog. Beyond visualisation, the system offers powerful analytics: for example, the status of refrigerated containers can be checked instantly, and virtually any operational data can be processed and displayed on demand.
EWG’s development team is also exploring how artificial intelligence can be applied even more extensively in the future. Plans include AI-based predictive and decision-support solutions to boost logistics efficiency further, optimise resource utilisation, and raise operational reliability to an even higher level.
Integrated control with 5G and centralised data
The terminal’s 5G-based crane control system is a European first. Thanks to ultra-low-latency connectivity, cranes can be operated remotely with pinpoint precision and safety, paving the way for future full automation.
A Kafka-based central data platform ties all these technologies together. Every piece of incoming information is collected in one place, where it can be analysed, replayed, and archived in real time. As a result, just three operators can safely and comprehensively oversee the entire 85-hectare site. Facility management is further strengthened by a SCADA system that centrally monitors the power grid, energy use, and key infrastructure such as wastewater pumps.
Planned mobile app for drivers
Looking ahead, EWG is considering the development of a dedicated mobile application to provide drivers with real-time, on-site navigation. The concept envisions a digitally mapped internal road network that would guide trucks precisely to their designated locations while enabling dispatcher–driver communication through the same channel. The goal would be to speed up movements among the 200 parking spaces and introduce additional monitoring capabilities.
These forward-looking technology initiatives highlight the direction in which intermodal logistics is evolving: toward a fully digitalised, integrated 5G-based ecosystem designed to deliver efficiency, safety, and transparency for operators and customers alike.