India's Road Train Revolution: Driving Efficiency And Safety In A Transforming Logistics Landscape

India's logistics sector, contributing 14 per cent to the nation's GDP, is profoundly transforming

- Jameel G Baig

With road transport dominating freight movement, accounting for nearly 60 per cent of the total, the need for efficient and high-capacity solutions is more critical than ever. As freight volume is projected to grow at a CAGR of seven to eight per cent over the next decade, and the trailer market expands at an estimated 10-12 per cent annually, the shift from conventional trailers to road trains is gaining momentum.

THE EVOLVING LOGISTICS LANDSCAPE AND THE RISE OF ROAD TRAINS

Traditional single-trailer trucks have long been the backbone of India's freight transport. However, the expansion of expressways, multimodal logistics hubs and the implementation of revised axle load norms have paved the way for high-capacity transport solutions. The rapid growth of e-commerce, projected to reach USD 350 billion by 2030, has further amplified the demand for faster and more efficient freight movement.

The introduction of GST, eliminating state border checkpoints, and the government's focus on highway expansion through projects like Bharatmala have significantly improved road connectivity, making long-haul transport more viable. Furthermore, the adoption of loT-enabled fleet management, telematics, and AI-driven route optimisation is enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. Sustainability concerns and rising fuel costs are also driving the shift towards high-capacity transport solutions, as they enable lower fuel consumption per tonne per km compared to conventional trailers. With the demand for multi-axle and longer combination vehicles expected to grow, India is poised for a more efficient and cost-effective logistics future.