Researchers at Cranfield University have developed a standardised framework for using digital twins to support transport decarbonisation across road, rail, air and maritime.
A digital twin is a real-time, data‑driven virtual representation of a physical object, system or process.
Developed through the UK research hub TransiT, it adapts the technology’s standard for use in the transport sector. Researchers say it could help policymakers and industry assess how different transport systems can reduce emissions.
The team reviewed more than 100 academic studies and analysed more than 10,000 records before developing the framework with experts from three universities across the country.
Dr Maryam Farsi, Lead Author, said: “While digital twin technologies are increasingly being used in transport, it’s very fragmented, and most existing systems focus on specific areas or assets, like electric vehicle charging, traffic management or fleet operations. There’s limited interoperability between different modes of transport and few systems address decarbonisation.
“The framework we propose fills this gap by bringing together vehicles, personnel, transport infrastructure, processes, energy and data systems, climate factors, human decision-making and many other elements into a single, standardised digital environment.”
The research covered physical assets such as vehicles and charging infrastructure, data and communications systems, digital twin technology, user tools and functions including cybersecurity and governance.
A case study examines moving freight from air to road using electric vehicles and sustainable aviation fuel.
The researchers said further testing and real-world pilot projects will be needed before wider deployment.
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