The concept of passenger trains also used for freight transport, as described in the Turboplan 2030, may initially seem unusual or even impractical, which could suggest an April Fool's joke. However, the proposal is based on serious research conducted by respected institutions such as TU Delft, TNO, and Royal HaskoningDHV, and supported by a motion passed by the House of Representatives. This indicates a real interest and research into the feasibility of this concept, rather than a joke.

Recent research by TU Delft, TNO and Royal HaskoningDHV into the possibilities for combining passenger and freight transport by train has reignited the discussion about the future of the Dutch railway network. The so-called 'Turbo plan 2030' proposes using intercity trains and sprinters, which are often understaffed outside peak hours, for the transport of light goods. This proposal, included in an exploratory report that was recently highlighted by various media, has both supporters and opponents.

The reason for this remarkable proposal is the motion by Members of Parliament Amhaouch and Ziengs, which was adopted in 2020. The motion calls for further research into the possibility of light freight transport in passenger trains during off-peak hours, an idea that arose from the observation of underutilization of trains outside peak hours.

The research team looked at the feasibility of this idea, including the technical and logistical challenges it poses. Although the idea seems simple at first glance – use the empty space in passenger trains to transport goods to reduce the number of trucks on the road – its implementation proves complex.

One of the biggest challenges is the infrastructure at the stations. Many stations are not equipped with the necessary facilities for loading and unloading goods, such as working elevators and baggage lifts. Most of the baggage lifts have been removed over the years, and the crossings, which could also aid loading and unloading, have been abolished for safety reasons.