Assumption in development of intermodal transport systems

Abstract

Presented paper is an abstract of author’s dissertation thesis on theme The Assumptions in Development of Intermodal Transport Systems, which deals with trend this will be observed in the future on the field of intermodal transport in Czech Republic and EU. Its goal is in finding ways, how to make intermodal transport more attractive for wider spectrum of haulers. Dissertation thesis is divided into five main chapters. In the first chapter is a state-of-the-art analysis of intermodal transport in Czech Republic as well as in EU. Emphasis is placed on technological respect of intermodal transport and its specifics in confrontation with direct road transport. There is propounded a hypothesis that variable costs of intermodal transport including accompanied might be lower than for direct road transport. This hypothesis is supported by expected mathematical curve of variable costs for accompanied intermodal transport and direct road transport. Another important part of the analysis is focused subvention support of intermodal transport on national and European level. Matter of common disadvantage of intermodal transport is very high costs for infrastructure development and buying of vehicles. Those costs are shown up in final price of the service, so that most dynamic development has nowadays types of intermodal transport with less input costs. Presumption of dissertation thesis is, that if intermodal transport systems will be free of input costs, than intermodal transport can be profitability. The input costs can be financed from European funds or national donation. One of the conditions for European projects is sustainability after the end of subsidy, so in the field of variable costs.