KiwiRail launches pilot program

KiwiRail, one of New Zealand’s largest freight movers, is looking to smart technology to further cut operating costs and boost efficiency. The company’s Kaiwharawhara depot has been chosen as the pilot site for a new initiative to manage its vehicle fleet better and minimize fuel consumption. KiwiRail Network will install global positioning system (GPS) units in 26 vehicles that operate from the depot. The GPS will allow KiwiRail to record information when vehicles are driven within the rail corridor or on KiwiRail land, when there are no road user charges, thus enabling KiwiRail to lower its cost. In addition it will also give accurate and timely data on fuel usage, which will help implement fuel efficiency measures. The three-month project will help the company better understand the system and determine what relevant information it can provide. If the trial is successful, the company plans to roll out the program nationwide. (August 25, 2011)