From next month, Switzerland will begin construction of its underground and autonomous freight network, which received final approval by the country's legislature at the end of last year.
The $ 3,4 billion project, called Cargo under terrain (CST), will use underground loading pipes with automated delivery trolleys to transport goods between Swiss cities at speeds of around 30 km / h (18,6 m / ph).
A "freight" meter
The peculiarity of the CST system will be the use of the underground network. This will allow the Swiss nation to expand its freight transport system without having to build new roads or rail networks, which are already reaching capacity limits.
The tunnels used for freight transport will require less space and will be able to operate, as mentioned, at lower speeds than passenger trains. Eventually, the CST is expected to reduce the number of heavy trucks on Swiss roads up to 40%.
The interesting and intelligent transport system can also work to transport refrigerated food and goods with suitable compatible vehicles. And inside the tunnels it is possible to arrange other pneumatic pipes, smaller and faster, for the rapid transfer of smaller items.
The roadmap for the autonomous underground transport system
Phase 1 of the plan for these transport plans to build a first section 70 km (43,4 miles) long that will run from Zurich to the town of Härkingen-Niederbipp in the western part of the country. The deadline? By 203. The rest of the network, on the other hand, should be operational by 2045.
It goes without saying that 100% of the energy used to operate the system will come from renewable energy sources. It's less impressive to hear it today when everyone brings up the topic, but technological developments between now and the next 20 years will make it possible.
The estimate of the Swiss underground autonomous transport system speaks of much freer roads (over 30% of total traffic will be eliminated) and quieter cities (up to 50% less noise emissions on Swiss roads).
If I close my eyes I can already see it. Better to open them, though: there is a video that summarizes the whole project. There he is.
