French multimodal company Modal Group is officially a traction operator and can now operate across all of the country’s railway network. The new entity, called TRAIX, transforms the group into an end-to-end logistics service provider in France.
By obtaining this authorisation, Modal Group is able to run its own locomotives without necessarily relying on third parties. On the other hand, the company said that it will not sever ties with its partners. The creation of a new internal traction provider is part of Modal Group’s recent rebranding. Previously known as Modalis, Modal Group is now also leasing intermodal equipment in the UK.
Initially, TRAIX will have five locomotives operated by five drivers and five ground operators, according to French media quoting a press release. However, the company aims to reach 15 trains by the end of the year. Initially, the new operator will focus on France’s main logistics hubs, including Marseille, Lyon, Île de France region, Dunkirk and Metz as well as key border crossings.