Planning and application of underground logistics systems in new cities and districts in China

Abstract Underground logistics systems (ULSs) has been an important topic and research hotspot for urban underground space use in China, especially for implementation in new cities and districts, as it is a necessary element to be considered for city underground space planning. Since these newly planned areas will face many challenges, including increasing logistics volume, spatial constraints etc. if we use the existing freight transport modes similar to old cities. Furthermore, the rapid developments of Chinese new cities provides an opportunity to implement innovative ULS freight transport systems and technology that are efficient and sustainable. Recently, ULS has been included officially in the planning and study for Beijing’s Sub-Center, the Yangtze River Demonstration District and other new cities and districts. However, the real value of ULS will not materialize unless it is successfully implemented. This paper presents the exploration, observations and findings of a few proposed ULS planning and research works in the new districts mentioned. The suitability of goods and freight types in ULS, logistic flow demand forecasting and ULS network systems integrated with underground metro or infrastructure are discussed. Both dedicated and integrated ULS network systems are also compared and analyzed. Despite the many advantages, many challenges and difficulties remain in the planning integration, technology adaptation and implementation of ULSs in new districts and cities, thus, interdisciplinary collaborations is one of the key success factors to ensure ULS can be brought to fruition.