![Research Ecosystems](https://d3vtxdl4wke3e9.cloudfront.net/uploads/resized/all/Events/33471/Research_Ecosystems_fe24c5b7d9b6d57724dd798ef924a4a7.jpg)
Creating smart ecosystems
Watertruck+
Watertruck is an innovative means of transportation for freight transport over small waterways, which uses small, self-driven or non-driven, standardized pushed barges. Combined with small or large ecofriendly push tugs, used in convoys, the concept ensures maximum flexibility for the activities, while keeping a maximum regional accessibility by connecting the small waterways with the TEN-T network.
This research project was established with the support of the European Union.
![](https://website2019-1ca9613dc0d3.victhorious.com/uploads/general/EU.png)
Problem
Everywhere in Europe the road network is saturated. At the same time, transport possibilities on small waterways are underexploited or even in decline. Even worse: the number of independent inland waterway entrepreneurs goes down every year.
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Project development
Watertruck+ aims to support the market with business cases for a large European fleet of vessels. The project consists of the following work packages:
- Market approach: development of business cases that engage shipping agents.
- Sign agreements with logistic operators – selection and development of business cases.
- Preparation of the operational program – development of planning models and monitoring tools, decisions on the necessary equipment (pushed barges, push tugs, pontoons), creation of a trading company (a Special Purpose Vehicle).
- Design of the vessel.
- Building of Watertruck+ push tugs and pushed barges.
- Testing of Watertruck+ in real circumstances.
- Development of the masterplan to move Watertruck+ to a larger scale.
- Communication and distribution.
- Project coordination.
Advantages
Watertruck+ offers several advantages for different target groups: banks and financial decision makers, shippers and operators, bargemen, regional and national policymakers.
Result
The results of this project are expected in 2020.
More information on http://www.watertruckplus.eu/
This project had the financial support of the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (INEA)
![](https://www.antwerpmanagementschool.be/app/uploads/2017/12/SPARK-EU.jpg)