Energy efficiency assessment of modern road trains for international freight transportation

Abstract

The paper proposes an original modeling procedure and an improved statistical evaluation methodology for parameters characterizing the performance efficiency of the "engine – transmission" energy system of modern road trains Volvo FM and Freightliner Cascadia used in international freight transportation, equipped with Volvo D13 and Detroit DD15 diesel engines. The methodology is developed in accordance with current international standards for freight transport, particularly regarding environmental sustainability, fuel efficiency, stability of technical characteristics, and economic feasibility.

            The evaluation of the "engine – transmission" system efficiency is based on a comprehensive analysis of influencing factors, which enables a deeper understanding of the relationship between vehicle operating parameters and energy consumption during operation on international routes. The analytical hierarchy process and adapted statistical tools are employed to ensure the validity of conclusions and the practical applicability of the methodology. Special attention is given to identifying the most significant factors that affect the overall energy efficiency of road trains.

             The theoretical foundation of the study is built upon the works of prominent researchers in the field of transport technologies and logistics, including Ihor Vikovych, Volodymyr Volkov, Petro Hashchuk, Heorhiy Prokudin, Anatolii Lebedev, Ihor Murovanyi, Volodymyr Sakhno, Mykhailo Podryhalo, Ramazan Khabutdinov, and others. The proposed results may prove useful for enhancing the efficiency of international freight transport, reducing fuel consumption, and improving the technical policy of motor transport enterprises.

            Keywords: road train, diesel engine, transmission, energy efficiency, international transportation, freight, analytic hierarchy process.