The INBAT R&D Project has successfully developed the INnovative BArge Train. This combination of push boat and barges will be able to transport a greater capacity of cargo in case that the water depth of the river or canal is strongly limited. This is the case for example with rivers Elbe and Odra during quite remarkable parts of the yearly operation periods.
The results of the research work an increase of payload for barges will be at least 20%. The decrease of construction and operation costs for barges and pushers expected by at least 30%. Efficient low draught propulsion systems and the improvement of the overall efficiency is estimated by more than 30% considering the life time of the transport system.