The University of Hull has announced the launch of Railwhere, a new spinout company aimed at transforming the rail freight sector by helping operators cut costs, reduce emissions, and improve efficiency. The company builds on seven years of advanced research conducted at the University’s Logistics Institute.
Railwhere combines deep operational expertise with award-winning software technology to offer real-time, data-driven solutions for route optimization and fuel efficiency. The technology was developed in partnership with key industry players such as Network Rail, Freightliner, and Lampada Digital Solutions, a University subsidiary.
Barrie Louw, Railwhere’s director, described the company’s technology as “transformational,” noting the challenges the rail freight industry faces today. “We build intuitive software that empowers the rail freight industry to plan smarter, operate cleaner, and make better-informed decisions. In a time of economic uncertainty and environmental challenge, accurate, fast and accessible analysis is more essential than ever,” he said.
Railwhere’s platform has already delivered tangible benefits. Collaborating with Innovate UK, Aether Limited, and the University of Derby, the company helped Freightliner improve the transport of quarried stone from the Mendip Hills to London. This project led to shorter journeys, reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and greater overall network efficiency.
The success of this project was recognised with industry awards for ‘Rail Freight Project of the Year’ and ‘Sustainability and Safety’. Additionally, Network Rail and Lampada received the ‘Rail Team of the Year’ award for developing a train-weight optimisation tool that assists network planners.
Professor Dave Petley, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hull, praised Railwhere as an example of effective collaboration between business, education, and research. “Railwhere shows what can be achieved when business, education and research work in partnership. It reflects the University of Hull’s broader mission to drive innovation, extend enterprise and tackle complex challenges like sustainability head-on,” he said.
Looking ahead, Railwhere plans to build on its UK success by expanding its strategic partnerships and increasing its influence across the rail freight sector. As decarbonisation and digital transformation continue to be top priorities, the company is poised to play a major role in shaping the future of low-carbon logistics.
With its focus on sustainability, efficiency, and collaboration, Railwhere represents a significant step forward in making rail freight greener and more competitive.
