The choice between road transport and rolling motorway: a case study

Abstract

The paper reports on a research project aimed at estimating the potential demand for a rolling motorway service connecting Trieste (Italy) and Chop (Ukraine). More specifically, the study has explored which factors play a role in the choice between the current prevailing mode of transport, that is road transport by trucks, and a rolling motorway service. Based on the estimates derived from a discrete choice model obtained on the basis of stated choice data collected from truck drivers and from transport companies, it is found that the monetary cost, the travel time and the day of the week play an important role. The scenario analysis allows us to conclude that under the current prices and regulations a rolling motorway service operating on a weekday would have no potential demand, whereas some potential demand would have a service operating during the weekend. Substantial demand for a rolling motorway service appears only if the monetary road cost (fuel cost or highway toll) increases considerably. A heavy-vehicle road tax equivalent to the one used for crossing the Alps in Switzerland and Austria would alter the balance in favor of the rolling motorway.Rail transport, modal choice, road transport, rolling motorway.