Intramotev TugVolt: Watco’s Illinois Deployment – Rail Innovation

Intramotev’s autonomous freight railcar technology deployed at Watco’s Wood River terminal. Partnership boosts operational efficiency.

Intramotev TugVolt: Watco’s Illinois Deployment – Rail Innovation
September 22, 2025 5:55 pm

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Introduction

Intramotev and Watco have entered into a commercial agreement to deploy Intramotev’s TugVolt technology at Watco’s terminal in Wood River, Illinois. The partnership aims to enhance Watco’s service offerings by leveraging Intramotev’s autonomous freight railcar technology.

Partnership Overview

Intramotev, a St. Louis-based developer of battery-electric railcars, and Watco, a prominent shortline railroad operator in North America, have formed a new commercial partnership.

Technology Deployment

Watco will implement Intramotev’s TugVolt technology at its terminal located in Wood River, Illinois. This initiative seeks to improve operational efficiency and better serve Watco’s customers.

Executive Statements

Aaron Jensen, Senior Vice President of Operations Solutions and Support at Watco, stated, “At Watco, we’re always exploring new ways to support our customers. This program with Intramotev reflects our commitment to evaluating innovative technologies that could help us better meet the needs of our shipper customers.” Tim Luchini, CEO and Co-Founder of Intramotev, commented, “We’re excited for the opportunity to create value for Watco’s customers with the TugVolt and its corresponding technology. Our technology brings new levels of flexibility to yard operations, helping customers move freight exactly when and where they need it. That means fewer delays, lower costs, and supply chains that work on the customer’s schedule.”

Current TugVolt Operations

Intramotev’s TugVolt technology is already in revenue service with Carmeuse Americas in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where it has transported more than 250,000 tonnes of material and delivered over 3,500 carloads this year.

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Conclusion

The agreement between Intramotev and Watco will see the deployment of Intramotev’s TugVolt technology at a Watco terminal. The goal is to enhance service offerings and operational efficiency through the use of autonomous freight railcars.

Company Summary

Intramotev: A St. Louis-based company specializing in the development of battery-electric railcars. It is the first company globally to commercially deploy autonomous freight railcars.

Watco: A North American railroad operator headquartered in Pittsburg, Kansas, providing rail, transloading, and logistics services across North America and Australia. It operates over 45 railroads, covering over 7,100 miles of track and has been in operation for more than 40 years.

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