EUROPE

Kiel launches intermodal rail service

14 years ago

The Port of Kiel has launched the first direct, intermodal rail service between the Baltic port and northern Italy, with its first block train leaving the Schwedenkai Terminal for Verona.

The first block train left the Schwedenkai terminal for Verona

The new service, which is operated by Kombiverkehr KG in Frankfurt, will run twice a week in both directions. Italian intermodal operator, Cemat, and Stena Line, which operates the ferry link between Kiel and Gothenburg, Sweden, are partners.

Dr Dirk Claus, managing director, Port of Kiel, said: “The new direct train to Verona opens completely new possibilities for our port and strengthens our position in rail cargo transport”.

Robert Breuhahn, managing director, Kombiverkehr KG, added: “With this new train service we are creating additional capacity for eco-friendly cargo transport on the route between the Baltic and Italy. The connection also offers direct on-shipment to and from Sweden with attractive transit times.”

Initially, trains will be capable of handling 1,300 tonnes per departure. Compared to long-haul truck transport, rail pollution emissions from rail cargo transport are much lower – a single delivery sent from Kiel to Verona by rail reduces CO2 emissions by up to 1.7 tonnes.

By the end of this year, more than 20,000 trailers and containers will have moved on intermodal services via Kiel.