How Transport and Logistics Operators Can Implement the Solutions of “Industry 4.0”

Abstract

The idea of Industry 4.0 was presented for the first time in 2011 by Henning Kagermann, former top manager of the SAP company. He suggested that different processes in production of goods can be coordinated in large-sized networks. One of the most important tools becomes the Internet of things (IoT). The implementation of IoT takes place not only in the production but also in the procedures which are used in the supply chains on the global market. Transport and logistics operators have started the development and implementation of IoT within their companies as well as outside of them. An important part of new solutions involves the data exchange between the transport vehicles and objects in their environment—particularly in public transport infrastructure which this paper addresses. Firstly, an overview is provided on multiple reports published by research institutes and market players. Secondly, this paper presents solutions that were implemented before 2016. The analysis provides a description of the challenge in modern transport systems and a discussion of possible actions for transport and logistics operators who aim to keep or improve their market position. Additionally, another part of the paper analyzes the impact on the market of transport and value-added services by the implementation of autonomous vehicles and the new generation of robots by transport and logistics operators. The main conclusion is the recommendation to promote closer cooperation between research institutes and market players as well as public authorities. It will be the best way to increase the efficiency of the development process of new technologies, which can be implemented by transport and logistics operators in the medium-term future.