A New Electric Train Challenges Trucks For Short-Haul Freight

The article highlights a groundbreaking development in short-haul freight transportation by the startup Parallel Systems, which is introducing a novel electric train concept. Unlike traditional trains that rely on a single locomotive, Parallel’s design equips individual railcars with their own batteries and autonomous operating systems, allowing them to operate as independent yet coordinated platoons. These platoons, consisting of 20–30 cars, can reduce aerodynamic drag and dynamically split or merge to serve multiple destinations more efficiently. This innovation promises faster freight flow through facilities, reducing bottlenecks and delivery times, and aims to compete directly with diesel and electric trucks in the short-haul freight market. Parallel Systems has made significant progress since its 2022 debut, raising $100 million in funding, including a $38 million Series B round led by Anthos Capital. The company is collaborating with the short-line rail operator Heart of Georgia on a federally approved seven-phase demonstration project spanning 160 miles of track between Pooler and Cordele, Georgia, set to complete