Library

D1.1 “User and stakeholder requirements for automated transport in logistics” To avoid demonstrating automated freight vehicle operations that nobody wants, MODI use cases must account for the needs of diverse stakeholders in logistics ecosystems. D1.1 documents these needs and identifies barriers and possibilities different actors see for using highly automated freight vehicles in logistics. It starts by reviewing work on relevant user requirements by EU projects to date. It then justifies a “traceable” approach to requirements elicitation based on in-depth interviews with three main stakeholder groups: logistics actors, technology developers and road owners/authorities. The iterative identification of 48 requirements is laid out, based on the analysis of 60 in-depth interviews with over 100 stakeholder representatives. Requirements comprise 21 logistics actor requirements, 16 road owner/authority requirements and 11 technology developer requirements. Each requirement is explained in detail, and the results are considered alongside requirements identified from the most closely related previous projects. Steps needed to bridge from requirements identified to the specification of solutions for MODI are considered.

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D1.3 “Report on border processes” looks at regulatory changes, standardization and adaptations to the digital and physical infrastructure and requirements for higher communication and positioning networks that will be needed for efficient transfer of highly automated freight vehicles through custom inspections and crossings. The Deliverable explains critical terminology and basic technologies that are key to understanding the automation of border processes. From there it goes on to illustrate current processes using the more challenging EU/non-EU border between Sweden and Norway as case. The same case is then used to illustrate potential future processes, objects, and installments, as well as look at the critical role of standardized interfaces. Findings include that highly precise positioning and the correct reference frames will be key to ease the passage of automated vehicles through a border of any kind. Any variation in systems between countries or confined private and public areas will also be an obstacle to the roll-out of highly automated trucks in international logistics.

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D2.2 “Common evaluation framework for MODI – Demonstrators” provides an overview of the methodologies selected for evaluating the MODI project, focusing on the five Use Cases (UCs) to be tested. The plan for the evaluation methodology presented in this deliverable is based on the FESTA methodology, which is slightly modified when applied to the project. Additionally, the methodology has been supported by social science and humanities perspectives (SSH) and a framework for measurement validity. Including these two approaches enhances the FESTA methodology to appropriately adapt its approach to the aims of the MODI project. The deliverable has also followed the general guidelines provided by the first draft version of the EU-CEM.

The different evaluation methods presented are to be applied to the analysis of the four impact areas (environment, safety, operational activities (including traffic) and socio-economic impact) and the gap analyses (technological and societal readiness). A list of Research Questions and suggested Key Performance Indicators has been defined and allows the specification of the data needed to be collected by each UC to answer the research questions and achieve the project objectives. In addition, other essential aspects for the conduction of the UCs have also been defined (i.e., experimental environments and evaluation tools). Most of the different stages of the project demand careful attention to ethical and legal issues that may arise, and as such, the document provides a general overview of these aspects as guidelines for the project partners.

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D4.2 “Optimal Designs of Physical and Digital Infrastructures at Public Roads” evaluates the infrastructure requirements for implementing SAE Level 4 automated freight transport along the MODI corridor, connecting the Netherlands to Norway. This evaluation draws on prior studies, stakeholder input, and MODI research, including data collection and Use Cases.

The report examines physical and digital infrastructure needs along the MODI corridor, including special sections such as tunnels, bridges, and toll plazas. The findings suggest that large-scale upgrades of the physical infrastructure are unnecessary for L4 CCAM deployment, as the existing infrastructure meets most requirements. Instead, the emphasis should be on developing a robust digital infrastructure to support automated driving. However, minor improvements in the physical infrastructure, such as improved quality of signage and markings, may still be beneficial. The report highlights the importance of collaborative standardization across physical and digital infrastructures to support safe and efficient L4 CCAM vehicle operations. Aligning and implementing standards for road markings, signage, connectivity protocols, HD maps, and positioning technologies is vital for a harmonized framework that enables consistent and efficient CCAM features. These findings are fundamental to MODI’s goals to accelerate automated freight transport in Europe, laying the groundwork for infrastructure enhancements to support the safe and effective operation of L4 freight vehicles across European corridors.
 

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D4.3 “Optimal designs of physical and digital infrastructures at confined areas” aims to give the outlines of the necessary adjustments of confined areas to handle autonomous vehicles/trucks, both from a physical and a digital perspective. The content of this deliverable has been made in close collaboration with the creators of D4.2 which has the scope of physical and digital designs for public roads.

The deliverable describes a scalable, vendor independent design based upon omong other facets: requirements from road authorities, vehicle OEMs and confined area owners, road geometry guidelines, connectivity requirements and guidelines and ogistical processes and derived principles.

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D6.1 “Stakeholder Group Setup and Engagement Plan” establishes the MODI Stakeholder Board Group (SBG), a team of external experts from various sectors who guide and advise the project on implementing solutions. Initially, around 25 stakeholders from government, industry, and academia joined, and more will be added as the project evolves. The SBG will provide input through workshops, feedback sessions, and other communications throughout the project. This deliverable explains the initial setup of the stakeholder group and the principles for adding new members, their involvement in MODI activities, and engaging with the SBG.

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D6.2 “Communication and Dissemination (C&D) Strategy” outlines the foundational plan for effectively communicating and disseminating the MODI project’s goals, findings, and outputs. It provides a structured strategy detailing objectives, channels, and timelines to ensure timely information sharing with target users and the broader public. This deliverable also emphasises the development of printed and electronic materials and collaboration with relevant European Commission (EC) and R&D projects to enhance the impact of CCAM (Connected, Cooperative, and Automated Mobility) initiatives across the EU.

Serving as a guide for the MODI consortium, the strategy is designed to adapt throughout the project’s lifecycle, with updates in subsequent deliverables (D6.3 and D6.5). The document ensures consistent and impactful communication among MODI partners, stakeholders, and the public, supporting transparency and engagement. It also acts as a reference tool for new project members, providing a comprehensive Communication and Dissemination framework overview.

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D6.3 “Updated Communication and Dissemination (C&D) Strategy” builds upon the foundation established in D6.2, providing a refined and expanded roadmap for the MODI project’s dissemination and communication efforts. This updated strategy reflects the evolution of the C&D plan during the project’s first 18 months, incorporating insights, adjustments, and comprehensive records of activities conducted during this period. The deliverable outlines updates to the original plan, detailing achieved key performance indicators (KPIs), planned future actions, and MODI’s participation in over 50 external events, clustering with CCAM-related projects, and engaging with broader audiences through media outreach.

Key highlights include the organization of four internal events, including a workshop in April 2024, the publication of three newsletters, and media efforts that reached an estimated audience of over two billion people, notably via a CNN International interview. Additionally, MODI has submitted four scientific papers, reinforcing its position within the research and innovation community. This updated strategy ensures all consortium members and stakeholders remain aligned with the project’s communication objectives and provides a living reference document for current and new members alike.

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D7.1Project Handobook” describes procedures and tools for internal use in the MODI consortium to facilitate communication and ensure the quality of deliverables. It is meant to guide project participants and as a reference point for management-related procedures. It summarises procedures for management, quality management, assurance and control, risk management, reporting, and cost follow-up. The handbook is tailored to the MODI project, but most parts are generic and are transferable to other projects.
 

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D7.3 “The ESG (Ethics, Security, and Gender Equality) plan” for the MODI project establishes the importance of ethical, security-related, and gender-sensitive practices by setting standards for the project’s activities and outputs, serving as the “project ethical compass.” The plan identifies and addresses ethical, security, and gender equality challenges while outlining procedures and tools to implement and monitor these standards. It emphasizes the protection of vulnerable groups, gender equality, and inclusion and provides measures to avoid gender bias and discrimination. The plan also assesses potential digitalisation, automation, traffic safety, and inclusion risks. Serving as a concise, accessible guide for project participants, the ESG plan is part of the project’s deliverables and complements the Project Handbook.
 

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