Shuttle-Sync

A Revolutionary Multi-Unit Solution*

Shuttlewagon is proud to present Shuttle-Sync, our groundbreaking multi-unit (MU) solution designed to tandem two railcar movers together, delivering from ~1.5 to 1.9 times the tractive effort of a single railcar mover. This innovation mirrors the efficiency of locomotives but with the added flexibility and cost-effectiveness of using railcar movers, setting a new standard in the railcar moving industry.

How does Shuttle-Sync work?

Shuttle-Sync represents a significant leap forward for Shuttlewagon and the railcar mover industry. By combining the power of two units, it offers an unprecedented level of tractive effort, akin to locomotive capabilities but with the added benefits of flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and safety. This innovation is poised to transform the efficiency and effectiveness of railcar moving operations, solidifying Shuttlewagon’s position as a leader in railcar moving solutions.

  • Shuttle-Sync’s primary unit controls both units from the cab or Cattron remote control.
  • Shuttle-Sync communication between the 2 Shuttlewagons is through the SAE-J1939 CAN communication protocol.
  • Shuttle-Sync works on 2018 models or newer.
  • Shuttle-Sync can only work with similar Shuttlewagons regarding Engine, Transmission, and Gearing.
  • Commander: SWX525 can only match with itself.

*NXT318, NXT423, NXT527, NXT631 launching Shuttle-Sync late 2024.

Model 1 Model 2 Approximate Total TE
SWX525
SWX525
55,670
NVX5025
NVX5025
68,400
NVX6030
NVX6030
75,810
NVX6030
NVX7035
78,755
NVX7035
NVX7035
81,700
NVX6030
NVX8040
94,335
NVX7035
NVX8040
97,280
NVX8040
NVX8040
112,860

Shuttle-Sync Main Feature Categories

An unprecedented level of tractive effort

Requirements

  • 2 Shuttlewagon units with Shuttle-Sync installed.
  • Both connected units must be model year 2018 or newer.


Enhanced Tractive Effort

  • Shuttle-Sync harnesses the power of two railcar movers, effectively combining their strengths to achieve significantly higher tractive effort. This capability is particularly beneficial for heavy-duty operations, providing the power of a locomotive with the agility of a railcar mover.


Streamlined Operations

  • Shuttle-Sync offers increased mobility and flexibility over a locomotive. Shuttlewagons are bimodal and can travel on both rail and roadways, providing economical and efficient operations. Shuttle-Sync takes this a step further by offering enhanced power without sacrificing maneuverability.


Cost-Effectiveness

  • Shuttle-Sync offers a more economical alternative to traditional locomotives, which are often expensive to purchase and maintain. Shuttlewagon Mobile Railcar Movers are known for their cost-effectiveness in terms of lower fuel consumption, fewer crew to operate, and lower maintenance costs.
  • Shuttle-Sync is designed to offer these same economic advantages, reducing operational costs while boosting efficiency.


Flexibility

  • Tandem Shuttle-Sync can be operated from the primary cab or remote control.
  • The same controls are available in Shuttle-Sync mode or as a single Shuttlewagon.


Performance

  • Has the highest Tractive Effort of any Road/Rail Railcar Mover. 


Safety

  • Utlizes not only the power of the 2 Shuttlewagons, but also the combined railcar mover braking as well as the combined compressed air of both railcar movers for train braking.
  • Camera view from both Shuttlewagons is visible from the primary Shuttlewagon.
  • Near-immediate vehicle response with low latency ~250ms delay between vehicles to allow for safe control of both vehicles.
  • All secondary vehicle operator interfaces are locked out when in Multi-Unit mode except vehicle braking and E-Stop.

Continuous Improvement

We are constantly innovating and improving our safety features and protocols. By staying at the forefront of safety technology and practices, we ensure that Shuttlewagon remains a leader not just in railcar moving solutions, but in industrial safety as well.