September 2024

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September 2024 | Volume 64 Issue 9

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IRJ
September 2024 | Volume 64 Issue 9
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Industry gears up for InnoTrans 2024
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Contents
September 2024 Volume 64 issue 9
Post 46 Killigrew Street News

Falmouth 4 This month
Cornwall, TR11 3PP, UK 6 News headlines
Tel +44 1326 313945
16 Transit news
Web www.railjournal.com
20 Financial news
Editor-in-Chief
24 News analysis
30
Kevin Smith
[email protected] World Market Analysis
Consulting Editor/
26 Changing and challenging times ahead
Associate Publisher
Protectionism and digitalisation define future growth
David Briginshaw
[email protected]
Germany
Deputy Editor
Mark Simmons
30 Economic headwinds blow ever harder
[email protected] Germany’s railways are facing a funding crisis
Associate Editor 34 DB InfraGO’s stop-start approach
Robert Preston New infrastructure manager courts controversy
38
[email protected]
Production Manager Innovative trains
Sue Morant
38 From zero to hero
[email protected]
Stadler’s reinvented Regioshuttle railcar
40 New generation freight carrier
Streem’s exciting prototype wagon revealed
Advertising sales office
Post 1809 Capitol Avenue, 44 Decarbonsing Dublin
Omaha, NE 68102 Alstom builds new bi-modes for Irish Rail
United States 46 Bullet train turns track inspector
Tel +1 212-620-7200
48
JR Central improves its N700S Shinkansen
Business development manager 48 Depot shunting without drivers

Jerome Marullo [email protected] Škoda’s autonomous LRV makes progress
Tel +1 732 887 5562 50 A new model for train vehicle design
How MBSE is revolutionsing the design process
Print magazine subscriptions hotline
Tel +1 402 346-4740
Fax +1 847 291-4816 InnoTrans 2024 and event preview
54 The global rail industry returns to Berlin
The must-see highlights of the mammoth event
58 Unife - new director general interview
International Railway Journal (Print ISSN 2161-7376,

Digital ISSN 2161-7368), is published monthly by
Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corp, 1809 Capitol
Avenue, Omaha, NE 68102, USA. Printed in Great
65
Enno Wiebe calls for greater colloboration
UIC Sustainability Impact Awards
IRJ presents four categories of shortlisted entrants
54
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by Mail Right International, 1637 Stelton Road B4,
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paid at Piscataway, NJ and additional mailing offices. September 2024 | Volume 64 Issue 9
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68 Industry Events Yellow machines GO GREEN: ,QWHUQDWLRQDO5DLOZD\-RXUQDO
Today’s track maintenance is

not be reproduced without permission. For reprint
information please contact Editor-in-Chief. For print
69 Full contact list facing complex challenges.
magazine subscriptions, assistance & address changes,
please call +1 402 346-4740, Fax +1 847 291-4816,
69 Advertisers index Plasser & Theurer has been
working on track maintenance
Email: [email protected] or
write to: International Railway
69 Fresh faces machines with alternative drive
systems for 10 years. They
Journal, Simmons-Boardman
Publishing Corp, PO Box 239,
70 The last word must be ecologically future-
Lincolnshire, IL, 60069-0239,
Berlin blockbuster
proof, sufficiently powerful, Industry gears up for InnoTrans 2024
USA
and economically feasible.
IRJ September 2024 3

This month | Kevin Smith
InnoTrans 2024: pressure to boost exports. While

it has had some success in Asia
digitalisation is less encouraging.
The overarching feeling is that
the five big talking points tied to China’s Belt and Road
initiative, attempts to enter
the rail sector has been slow to
respond ever since the term
S EPTEMBER in an even-
numbered year means only
one thing for the global railway
Rail is generally viewed
favourably for its potential to
decarbonise transport. However,
Europe and North America,
the two other most lucrative
markets, have been mixed. Its
landed as an industry buzzword
around a decade ago.
Siemens Mobility CEO,
industry: InnoTrans. funding is not yet forthcoming most successful venture appears Mr Michael Peter, like Lange, is
The 14th edition of the world’s to further develop and rollout to be the takeover of Vossloh a strong proponent of cross-
foremost railway industry trade some of the European industry’s Rolling Stock, which has industry data sharing to facilitate
show will take place at Messe flagship technology programmes secured a series of notable digitalisation. However, both
Berlin from September 24-27. that will facilitate modal shift, orders in recent times, taking bemoan the wider industry’s
Around 130,000 visitors from such as the Digital Automatic its production plant at Kiel in reluctance to realise the
across the world are expected Coupler (DAC), the Future northern Germany to capacity opportunities on offer, which for
to visit the show’s more than Railway Mobile Communication and raising questions over Siemens include the capability
2900 exhibitors that will occupy System (FRMCS) and ERTMS. further expansion. Another to improve the reliability and
more than 40 halls and over The political paralysis in Brussels acquisition by CRRC may be availability of rolling stock and
3km of outside track. following this summer’s European likely in the coming years. infrastructure, as well as increase
The exhibition is arranged Union Parliamentary elections, Alstom is ranked second network capacity. It will be
around five key themes: railway which will likely continue to behind CRRC in SCI’s list of interesting to see whether
technology, railway infrastructure, the end of the year, is adding to the top 10 global railway thinking is beginning to shift.
public transport, interiors, and the uncertainty and concern. equipment manufacturers. The ability of rail suppliers
tunnel construction. Arguably, Difficult choices will need to be However, not all is rosy. to successfully innovate is
though, five other key themes
“
ultimately dependent on the
and current challenges impacting capability of their staff. Skills
the global railway industry will Governments in regions once and diversity will be a major
be the talk of Messe Berlin talking point at InnoTrans, with
during the event. regarded as growth drivers for the ability to retain talent the
The market: On the face of it, sector’s primary human
the global railway industry is global manufacturers are pursuing resources challenge. Events
in rude health. As SCI Verkehr
reveals in its latest world
protectionist manufacturing policies. recognising the contribution of
women and offering networking
market study (p28), the value opportunities for younger people
of the global railway market made, especially with defence The French company has faced will present the sector as a
surpassed €200bn for the first spending expected to increase, difficulties with the issues it positive and progressive place
time in 2023. Steady annual as the new director general of inherited from Bombardier to work. It will also add to the
growth of 4% is expected over the European Rail Industry Transportation following the sense of community that you
the next five years and SCI says Supply Association, Mr Enno controversial takeover in 2021. feel at the global rail industry’s
that the challenges of high Wiebe, is all too aware (p58). It announced cutbacks at its largest get-together.
inflation caused by supply This all adds up to a general British plant in Derby earlier
chain disruption during and note of caution. The delicate this year, has sold its North
after the Covid-19 pandemic, as global geopolitical situation American mainline signalling
well as high energy costs does not help. As SCI notes, activities to Knorr-Bremse, and
prompted by the war in some national governments in is also toying with offloading
[email protected]
Ukraine, have largely passed. regions once regarded as growth its coach and car body plant at
This view is supported by drivers for global manufacturers Görlitz in eastern Germany.
Knorr-Bremse, with board are pursuing protectionist Technological innovation
member, Dr Nicolas Lange, manufacturing policies. Russia centred on digitalisation and
reporting a turnaround in recent is the most striking example. improved sustainability across
performance (p70). However, But there are moves elsewhere the railway is central to
not everyone is of the same to reduce a reliance on Alstom’s pitch at InnoTrans.
opinion. As one supplier told international suppliers. Indeed, Decarbonisation is another
me, energy and material costs India has cancelled two fleet major focus of the larger OEMs
are still higher than they were tenders in recent months in and new products and systems
and continue to pose problems. favour of working with domestic for alternative traction across
Companies are also stockpiling industry (p20). The substantial the supply chain are likely to
growing numbers of the cost of setting up shop in faraway turn heads throughout the
components and products they lands is also prohibitive for exhibition. The International
need so they are better prepared some smaller suppliers seeking Union of Railways (UIC)
in the event of another crisis, to follow their larger partners Sustainability Impact
adding to the financial pressure. into new markets. There are also Awards will also
There are also concerns about concerns over securing highlight some of
the general political appetite to insurance for export deliveries. the notable
support rail, especially in Europe, The vast Chinese market has projects that its
underlined by the debate over fuelled the growth of the world’s members are
funding for Germany’s railway largest equipment supplier, undertaking
investment programme (p30) CRRC. But, as SCI reveals, with (p65).
and concern over rising track sales of new fleets slowing down, Progress
access charges (p34). the manufacturer is under with
4
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News | headlines
Passenger services commence on Tanzania’s Standard Gauge Railway
T ANZANIA Railways
Corporation (TRC) has
launched passenger services on
17 electric locomotives with a
maximum speed of 160km/h to
haul 89 coaches that are being
Korea. The new passenger fleet
features air-conditioning and
onboard Wi-Fi, and offers seating
Hyundai Rotem is also
supplying 10 eight-car EMUs
to TRC, each capable of carrying
the initial 440km section of the delivered by Sung Shin Rolling in Royal, Business and a total of 590 passengers at a
Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Stock Technology (SSRST) of Economy class. speed of up to 160km/h.
from Dar es Salaam to the
capital Dodoma.
There are currently two train
pairs a day between Dar es
Salaam and Dodoma: an express
service and a conventional train.
TRC hopes to increase the
service frequency as demand
builds up, and some trains are
already oversubscribed,
according to TRC director
general, Mr Masanja Kadogosa.
As well as cutting journey
times by around 50% when
compared with buses,
passenger services on the
electrified SGR are expected to
cut CO₂ emissions, while
reducing air and noise pollution.
Photo: Craig Dean
Hyundai Rotem is supplying
Former Kansas City Southern Voith e-coupler selected as standard

CEO Ottensmeyer dies for Digital Automatic Coupler
T HE former president and
CEO of Kansas City
turmoil in the run-up to the
recast of the North American T HE e-coupler developed
by Voith will be adopted
as the standard for the Digital
expert group of operators and
agreed by the e-coupler
manufacturers. The tests
Southern (KCS), Mr Patrick Free Trade Agreement (Nafta)
Ottensmeyer, died on July 28. by former US president, Mr Automatic Coupler (DAC) for focused on technical aspects, as
He was 67. Donald Trump. European rail freight under the well as acquisition and
Ottensmeyer was the final Ottensmeyer also oversaw Europe’s Rail FP5- maintenance costs.
president and CEO of KCS the transition to a Precision TRANS4M-R project, which is While the technical
from 2015 until April 2023, Scheduled Railroading leading DAC development. credentials of both designs
when the merger with fellow operating model at KCS, and Voith’s solution was chosen were commended, cost
Class 1 Canadian Pacific (CP) the merger with CP. following a competitive assessment identified a slight
was completed to create “Pat’s vision and leadership selection process that started in advantage for Voith, leading
Canadian Pacific Kansas City played a monumental role in autumn 2023. Voith’s e-coupler the operator expert group to
(CPKC). the great history of KCS as he and a design developed by its recommend the design, which
Cross-border traffic with helped reshape the railway competitor and fellow was endorsed by the FP5-
Mexico was a key component industry,” says Mr Keith Creel, manufacturer in FP5- TRANS4M-R steering
of KCS’ business, and CPKC president and CEO, TRANS4M-R, Knorr-Bremse, committee. The European DAC
Ottensmeyer is credited for who worked closely with were extensively tested during Delivery Programme has also
successfully navigating the Ottensmeyer during the the four-month programme. endorsed the decision.
CP-KCS merger. The e-coupler is the DAC’s Voith says its e-coupler
Ottensmeyer joined KCS in most crucial component, meets all height and weight
May 2006 as executive vice- providing energy supply and specifications and can be easily
president and chief financial data transmission between retrofitted, requiring just two
offer (CFO) and was executive wagons and locomotives to screws. It claims the coupler is
vice-president for sales and create a digital freight train. especially easy to maintain due
marketing at KCS from “The e-coupler is the to the low number of
October 2008 until March 2015. component that really makes components used. “This
Following completion of the the DAC digital as it enables always ensures a reliable
CPKC merger in 2023, automation and digitalisation power and data connection,”
Ottensmeyer stayed on for the with software-defined systems Voith says.
remainder of that year as a and digital rail services,” Voith’s e-coupler design will
special advisor on Mexican Europe’s Rail says. now form the basis for
affairs. After retiring from Both e-couplers were tested standardised interfaces that
CPKC, he became a director at in the FP5-TRANS4M-R train will be set out in the relevant
The Greenbrier Companies, test lab, on the Swiss Technical Specifications for
Watco and JB Hunt. demonstrator DAC4EU train Interoperability (TSI)
Ottensmeyer won the and on the manufacturers’ test published by the European
Railway Age Railroader of the benches. Conditions for the Union Agency for Railways
Year Award in 2020 and 2022. trials were determined by an (ERA).
6 IRJ September 2024

News | headlines In brief
Argentina tackles railway emergency Austria

ÖBB has awarded Alstom with
A RGENTINA’s Transport Secretariat is June 13, sets aside Pesos 1.3bn ($US 1.4m) for a €100m contract to upgrade
evaluating proposals to improve safety improvements. It also empowers the state- ETCS onboard signalling
operational safety that have been submitted by owned railway companies to renegotiate debt and equipment on 449 locomotives
state-owned operating and infrastructure contracts inherited from administration of and driving trailers to Level 2
companies, as required by a presidential decree Milei’s predecessor, Mr Alberto Fernández, and Baseline 3.6. The work will be
declaring a “Public Railway Emergency.” reallocate these resources to safety. undertaken at ÖBB workshops
The proposals were submitted in July at a The state of emergency will last for two years in Linz and Vienna and could
meeting with transport secretary, Mr Franco and requires railway companies to prioritise the last until 2030. In a first call-off
Mogetta, and undersecretary for railways, Mr most urgently-needed infrastructure work, as under the contract, the ETCS
Martín Ferreiro, attended by Mr Marcelo well as awarding the necessary contracts. equipment on 85 class 1116
Krajzelman, president of Argentinian Trains The Transport Secretariat will now develop an and 50 class 1216 locomotives,
Infrastructure, and Mr Segio Basich, president of action plan setting out the “essential and plus 60 class 8090 driving
Argentinian Trains Freight. Representing the urgent” measures needed, including details of trailers, will be updated, with
passenger sector was Mr Adrián Luque, the changes to budgets that will be required and completion expected by the
president of Argentinian Trains Operations. a proposed course of action. A team of railway end of 2030.
The emergency decree signed by Argentina’s advisers has been appointed to assist with this
president, Mr Javier Milei, and published on task. Britain
Global Centre of Rail Excellence
Caltrain launches San Francisco (GCRE) and infrastructure
- San Jose electric services: manager Network Rail (NR)
California’s governor, Mr have entered into a “multi-
Gavin Newsom, presided over million pound” commercial
the official launch of electric arrangement, under which the
services on the 82km San future GCRE facility in South
Francisco - San Jose - Tamien Wales will provide support for
commuter line on August 10. NR in testing, research, and
Work on the $US 2.4bn project, innovation.
which included resignalling
and upgrading level crossings, Germany
started in 2017. The first Stadler A new €65m 260m bridge over
Kiss EMUs were introduced the River Oder connecting
into public service on Küstrin-Kietz in Germany
August 11, and Caltrain says with Kostrzyn in Poland
additional electric trains will be opened on July 29. The
introduced every week until previous bridge, built in 1954,
the launch of the new timetable was closed in December 2020
and full electric service on and demolished, with rail
September 21. Journey times services replaced by a fleet of
will be cut and train frequency minibuses. Infrastructure
increased by 20%. manager DB InfraGO (p34)
says this is the first time that
Successful reset needed for HS2, says NAO carbon fibre technology has
been used for a mainline
P ROVIDING an update on
HS2 since the decision to
achieve them, NAO says. This
will include agreeing a realistic
Ltd puts the figure at £49-57bn.
NAO recommends that HS2
railway bridge.
cancel Phase 2 of the high- budget, and re-establishing Ltd should finish developing Israel
speed project, Britain’s control so that risks and costs its action plan to lower costs Israel Railways (IR) has issued
National Audit Office (NAO) can be managed effectively. and renegotiate the four main a Request for Information
says that the Department for NAO recommends that DfT construction contracts for (RFI) as it considers ordering a
Transport (DfT) and project should agree with HS2 Ltd a Phase 1, although it recognises new fleet of up to 90 freight
delivery company HS2 Ltd revised methodology for that renegotiating major locomotives. IR estimates that
need to successfully reset the estimating the cost of the contracts that are already in it will require up to 20
programme to avoid past programme and use that progress “will not be locomotives by the end of
failures and maximise its value. estimate to set a revised straightforward.” 2026, with the remainder to be
The NAO report published funding envelope. NAO says that the Treasury delivered in batches until 2040.
on July 23 says that HS2 As of March 31 2024, DfT should agree revised financial Prospective suppliers are
remains “an extremely large and HS2 Ltd had spent £30.1bn controls with DfT and HS2 Ltd required to provide IR with
and complex project,” despite at 2019 prices on the HS2 with multi-year funding details of proposed locomotive
being smaller in size after the programme, including £27.8bn settlements to provide long- designs, including an estimated
government decided in on Phase 1 from London to term certainty to avoid higher unit price and any discount,
October 2023 to abandon all Birmingham. Both parties costs. by October 10.
new construction north of agree that the current funding The NAO also wants DfT to
Birmingham. envelope of £44.6bn will not be assess HS2’s role in supporting Kenya
DfT and HS2 Ltd now need sufficient to complete Phase 1. the wider rail network, and Kenya Railways Corporation
to be clear on what benefits However, while DfT consider other options for (KRC) has taken delivery of 20
they want the programme to estimates that it will cost £45- increasing capacity on the West new passenger coaches
achieve and how they plan to 54bn to complete Phase 1, HS2 Coast Main Line (WCML).

KISS
INNO
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24 – 27 September
Messe Berlin
Visit us CITYLINK
TAILOR MADE Hall 2.2 | Stand 230
METRO FLIRT
VISIT
US intransport
World premiere
sustainable rail
This year, Stadler will be unveiling eight

new rail vehicles featuring a range of inno-
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transport as well as presenting new service
and digitalisation developments.
Yet another world first will be presented:

The ultimate rail vehicle for non-electrified
branch lines in the tradition of our Regio
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stadlerrail.com
News | headlines
Prison sentences
for 2013 Santiago
de Compostela
derailment
T HE driver of the Renfe
Alvia service that derailed
on a curve at Angrois on July
24 2013 and the former
director of operational safety
at Spanish infrastructure
manager Adif have been
sentenced to two-and-a-half
years in prison for their role in
Photo: David Gubler

the accident that killed 79
people and injured 143.
The judge in Santiago de
Compostela has also ordered
the defendants and the insurers
Transnet reveals open-access timeline of both Adif and Renfe

Operadora, respectively Allianz
S OUTH African freight aimed at increasing the operating market with access Global and QBE, to pay over
operator Transnet reports capacity of the rail freight and to leased rolling stock have €25m in compensation to the
that key structural changes to logistics business. been delayed due to non- families of the deceased and
introduce open-access Transnet has confirmed that compliance by participants at those injured in the accident.
operations are underway, despite the operating company and the Request for Proposals The defendants have also
a setback in the creation of a infrastructure manager operating (RFP) stage of the tender been banned from exercising
rolling stock leasing market. models and organisational process which started in their respective professions for
Funding from the South structures, which are essential April 2023. The aim is to select a period of four-and-a-half years.
African government and others, for open access, will be a private-sector partner with The judge identified the
including a $US 1bn loan from finalised in early 2025. In the experience in leasing and cause of the accident as the
the African Development Bank meantime, the interim access to financial resources absence of measures to
(ADB) announced in July, is infrastructure manager expects that will be able to partner mitigate the risk arising from
conditional upon Transnet to publish a final network Transnet in establishing a operating with a safety system
opening up its network linking statement and proposed rolling stock leasing company. that left all responsibility in
inland ore and coal deposits charging methodology to make As a result of the problems the hands of the driver.
with ports. train paths available for third- with the RFP, Transnet has The driver also acted in an
The loan is intended to party access by September 30. cancelled the original tender absent-minded manner after
support the first phase of Transnet admits plans to and launched a new one to receiving a call from the
Transnet’s Rand 152.8bn develop market opportunities ensure compliance. It says it conductor of the train. He
($US 8.5bn) five-year capital for leasing capital assets and aims to issue a new RFP by became unaware of his location
investment plan, which is provide the emerging freight December. and failed to see the signals
that would have enabled him
to realise he was approaching
Irish strategic rail review makes 32 recommendations the curve at Angrois.
I RELAND’s Department of
Transport and the
Department for Infrastructure
the report recommends
increasing service frequencies
to at least every 2 hours, and
freight connections to the
busiest ports should be
combined with a reduction in
The train was travelling at
176km/h when it derailed, and
the judge said that there was
(DfI) in Northern Ireland have raising the maximum speed to track access charges for freight no trackside equipment in
published the final report of at least 120km/h. “which are reportedly among place to mitigate the risk of a
the All-Island Strategic Rail It also says that more direct the highest in Europe.” driver not adhering to the
Review. The document makes services should be provided The cost of the full maximum speed of 80km/h in
32 recommendations for between Ireland’s west and programme is estimated at force on the curve.
developing the network in south coasts, such as between €35-37bn at 2023 prices. If split Both the driver and Adif’s
both jurisdictions up to 2050 to Galway, Limerick and Cork, evenly across 25 years, this former director of operational
meet net-zero commitments. and that the Western Rail amounts to €1bn a year of safety failed to meet the duty
The report suggests that the Corridor should be reinstated additional spending in Ireland, of care required by their
maximum speed should be between Claremorris and and £310m a year in Northern respective roles.
raised to 200km/h on the core Athenry. Ireland. The judge found it
inter-city network connecting In Northern Ireland, the Assisted by EIB Advisory “incomprehensible” that a
Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin, report recommends extending Services, the Department of high-speed line could be
Limerick, Cork, Galway, and the railway from Portadown to Transport and DfI are now designed with ERTMS
Waterford. With additional Dungannon, Omagh and working to implement the throughout, only to modify
tracks at key locations, service Strabane in County Tyrone, report’s recommendations, the original project without
frequencies could be increased and in Ireland to Letterkenny including more detailed analysis and mitigation of the
to at least hourly. in County Donegal. identification of priorities for risks to safety that would
On regional and rural lines, Measures to improve rail the next decade. arise.

INNOVATION
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Today, we’re already imagining tomorrow’s mobility – and customizing our solutions
accordingly, in tailormade packages of innovative products, systems and services.
The mobility transition from road to rail is happening right now. And Knorr-Bremse is driving it
forward – with new developments, high-speed innovation cycles, and stellar quality standards.
We’re pouring our expertise into research and innovation programmes such as the Europe’s Rail
Joint Undertaking. With transformative concepts like reproducible braking distances, the Digital
Freight Train, the new digital electromechanical brake. And other cutting-edge technologies for
eco-friendly travel.
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News | headlines
Competition helps boost Spanish high-speed traffic by 37% in 2023

I NCREASING competition on the Spanish
high-speed network is driving up traffic
to record levels, according to the 2023 rail
10.1% for its low-cost Avlo trains.
Traffic on the Madrid - Valencia corridor
was up 73.5% at 5.1 million passengers in
was up 39.4% at 3.9 million. Having started
operations here in March 2023, Iryo obtained
a market share of 23.2%, compared with 73.2%
sector report from the National Markets 2023, following the arrival of both Ouigo for Renfe AVE services and 3.5% for Avlo.
and Competition Commission (CNMC). and Iryo in the third quarter of 2022. Renfe Both Ouigo and Iryo began competing
High-speed trains operated by incumbent AVE services retained a 37.9% share of the with Renfe on the Madrid - Alicante
operator Renfe and its competitors Ouigo market in 2023, and Avlo 14.5%. Ouigo corridor in the second quarter of 2023.
and Iryo carried a total of 32.4 million held 23.6% and Iryo 24%. Traffic grew by 44.1% to reach 2.99 million
passengers in 2023, up 37% on 2022. Both the Madrid - Málaga/Granada and passengers last year, with Renfe AVE
New ridership records were set on all Madrid - Seville corridors only opened up services retaining a 64% market share and
corridors where passengers can now to competition last year, and Renfe still Avlo 12.5%. Ouigo had 18.7% and Iryo 4.8%.
choose between competing operators. commands a significant share of the high- Growth fuelled by competition is also
Traffic on the Madrid - Barcelona corridor speed rail market here. Traffic on the cementing high-speed rail’s dominant
grew by 34.6% to reach 13.8 million passengers. Madrid - Málaga/Granada corridor grew position in the domestic rail and air market
Ouigo and Iryo began operating on this by 31.6% to reach 3.95 million passengers on corridors where the two modes compete.
corridor in May 2021 and November 2022 in 2023. Renfe AVE services accounted for According to CNMC analysis, in 2023 rail’s
respectively. In 2023 Ouigo had a market 77.4% of the market, and Avlo 4%. As its market share grew on all corridors, except
share of 20.1% and Iryo 21.9%, compared sole competitor, Iryo had obtained 18.6%. Madrid - Málaga where it fell by 0.5
with 47.9% for Renfe AVE services and On the Madrid - Seville corridor, traffic percentage points to 77.5%.
Australia needs
decarbonisation
strategy
A report commissioned by
the Australasian Railway
Association (ARA) says that
Australia must urgently
develop a national strategy to
decarbonise rail or risk
missing a critical opportunity
to phase out diesel traction
and meet net-zero targets.
Produced by engineering
consultancy GHD, the report
says around half of Australia’s
diesel-powered rolling stock is
due to be replaced between
2030 and 2050.
While passenger services in
urban areas are generally
electrified, diesel trains continue Italian Rail Network (RFI) tests first autonomous rail inspection vehicle: RFI has tested for the first
to operate regional services. time a prototype 200km/h unmanned rail vehicle (URV) at its Bologna San Donato test circuit. The
Diesel locomotives remain the URV is designed to carry out inspection, monitoring and mapping to analyse safety-critical issues;
dominant motive power for real-time monitoring of people or object-detection systems; inspection in critical or dangerous
freight in Australia. locations to avoid human presence; and transporting specialised tools. The vehicle can only
Rail is not anticipated to operate on lines equipped with ETCS Level 2 and can be driven fully automatically under ATO or
transition to net zero at the same controlled remotely.
pace as other sectors of the
Australian economy, principally
due to the technical immaturity Second phase of Transgabonais Railway upgrade approved
of alternatives to diesel.
Rail also faces the challenges
of long asset lifecycles and
T HE government of Gabon and Transgabonais
Operating Company (Setrag), which operates
the 648km railway linking Libreville on the
The Gabonese government will fund civil
engineering and earthwork improvements,
identified following a landslide in 2022, which
differences in gauge, operating Atlantic coast with Franceville in the southeast resulted in the suspension of services for several
conditions and regulations of the country, have agreed to proceed with the months. The government is also set to finance
between Australia’s states second stage of the project to upgrade the line. the procurement of passenger rolling stock to
which must be overcome to Work will take place between Ndjolé, Alembé replace what Setrag describes as two trains
deliver a major reduction in and Lopé, and from Milolé to Franceville, and acquired between 2012 and 2016, which are
emissions, the report says. will comprise replacing existing 50kg rail with reaching the end of their life.
Transitional solutions 60kg and replacing wooden with concrete twin- Phase 1 of the project has involved upgrading
include biofuels, renewable block sleepers. the section from the western terminus at Owendo
diesel and the use of bi-mode The project is expected to cost CFA Fr 350bn to Ndjolé, with around 300km of line already
locomotives. Electrification ($US 580m), with the government set to provide renewed, and 225km of new rail laid. Work on
and hydrogen traction is CFA Fr 130bn and Setrag the remaining this phase has cost CFA Fr 230bn and is nearing
foreseen in the long term. CFA Fr 220bn. Work should complete in 2028. completion.

US government sues NS Southern
over Amtrak Crescent delays
T HE United States federal government has filed a lawsuit against
Norfolk Southern (NS) alleging that the Class 1 is violating
federal law by deliberately delaying Amtrak Crescent services.
NS owns 1835km of the 2216km of infrastructure used by the
Crescent between New York City and New Orleans, and is
responsible for train dispatching on this section. Under federal
Visit us at:
law, NS is required to prioritise passenger trains over freight.
The federal government’s complaint, filed in the US District
INNOTRANS 2024
Court for the District of Columbia, centres on the fact that only 24% 24. - 27.09.2024
of southbound Crescent services arrived on time during 2023.
NS regularly fails to give Amtrak priority over freight services, Hall 21B | Booth 150
according to the complaint, causing widespread delays that
inconvenience passengers and worsen Amtrak’s financial
performance.
The complaint says that on January 1 an Amtrak train 16km
from New Orleans was delayed for nearly an hour when NS
dispatchers sent it out behind a slower freight train. On another
occasion, an Amtrak train had to wait over an hour to let three
freight trains pass.
“For half a century, federal law has required freight rail
companies to give Amtrak passenger rail service preference on
their tracks - yet compliance with this important law has been
uneven at best,” says US transportation secretary, Mr Pete
Buttigieg. “We will continue to engage the railroad industry and
work with Amtrak to ensure that freight railroads comply with
their legal obligations and that Amtrak customers are not
subjected to unacceptable, unnecessary, and unlawful delays.”
“Over the past several months with Amtrak, we have focused
on the on-time performance of the Crescent passenger train,” says
NS assistant vice-president for strategic communications, Mr
Thomas A Crosson. “We hope to resolve these concerns and
continue to make progress together.”
PERFORMANCE
In brief ON TRACK®
supplied by CRRC Nanjing
Puzhen of China. The 11
Morocco
Moroccan National Railways Innovative System Solutions
economy class coaches, four (ONCF) has awarded a
premium class coaches, three for Future-Proof Networks
project management contract
first class coaches, a dining for the planned high-speed
car and a generator car to line between Kénitra and
provide electrical power, will Marrakech to a Franco-
operate Madaraka Express Moroccan consortium led by
services on the Standard Gauge Egis, working alongside Systra voestalpine Railway Systems is the global leader for system
Railway (SGR) between and Novec. The project will
Mombasa and Nairobi. solutions in the field of railway infrastructure, offering
extend the existing 183km
outstanding products, logistics and services for rails, turnouts,
Tangier - Kenitra high-speed
Lithuania line to an approximate total signaling and monitoring applications. A fully integrated
LTG Cargo has announced of 430km. The project will also material chain and value-adding industry setups beyond steel
that it will pull out of the include quadrupling 130km enable voestalpine to understand the interdependencies of all
wagon pooling agreement for of conventional lines around the track components in order to optimize the performance
1520mm-gauge networks Casablanca and new stations.
and life cycle cost of the system. With smart digital solutions
established by the CIS
Railway Council. From Poland voestalpine provides the basis for modern track management
January 1 2025, LTG Cargo Central Communication Port concepts to guarantee “Performance on Track®”.
says that it will instead (CPK), the company delivering
operate a fleet of 6000 Poland’s new hub airport
privately-owned wagons, but and its associated rail projects,
1520mm-gauge wagons has announced plans to tender voestalpine Railway Systems
shared by other national a contract to build a 4.6km www.voestalpine.com/railway-systems
operators will continue to tunnel under the city of Łódź,
run on the Lithuanian a key section of the new
network. Y-shaped high-speed line from

News | headlines
Italian rail freight crisis looms Tunisia - Algeria

cross-border
R AIL freight associations
Fermerci and FerCargo
year, and up to a peak of 80%
during the summer months,
due to the constant disruption
coupled with flooding in the
Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany
regions, and the security crisis trains resume
T
have written to Italy’s minister
UNISIAN National
of infrastructure and transport, caused by infrastructure work disrupting container shipments
Railways (SNCFT)
Mr Matteo Salvini, demanding to deliver projects under Italy’s via the Red Sea, are causing a
operated a passenger train
urgent intervention to avoid National Recovery and collapse in rail freight traffic.
from Tunis to Annaba in
“a disastrous crisis with Resilience Plan (PNRR), Traffic fell by 3.2% in 2023
eastern Algeria on August 11,
unpredictable consequences.” running until 2026. and is forecast to drop by a
reviving a cross-border line
Fermerci president, Mr In addition, the complete further 6.7% this year. The
that has been largely out of
Clemente Carta, and FerCargo closure of the key trans-Alpine economic damage this year is
use since 1995.
president, Mr Mauro Pessano, crossing into France via the estimated at €90m, with similar
Under the regular timetable
say that freight operators have Fréjus Tunnel due to a landslide losses forecast for the next two
for the new service, trains
been working in unacceptable in France in August 2023, and years.
leave Tunis at the same time
conditions without any support the partial closure of the Gotthard Fermerci and FerCargo say
on Monday, Wednesday and
for months, adding that the Base Tunnel connecting Italy that this situation is not only
Friday, with departures from
situation is no longer sustainable with Switzerland, “are having preventing the development of
Annaba on Tuesday, Thursday
and threatens major disruption serious repercussions on the the rail freight sector and
and Sunday at 09.00. The
to the economy. entire Italian logistics system,” modal shift from road to rail,
Tunis - Annaba service takes
The associations say that according to Fermerci and but also places the future of
7 hours for the 357km journey.
network capacity has been FerCargo. companies employing 15,000
SNCTF says that the train
reduced by more than 50% this These infrastructure problems, people at risk.
can only be used by
passengers travelling between
Tunisia and Algeria.
Through trains between
Tunisia and Algeria were
suspended in 1995 due to
security concerns. They
resumed briefly in 2003, but
were withdrawn again due to
undisclosed technical issues.
Indian cabinet
approves eight
new lines
T HE Cabinet Committee on
Economic Affairs, chaired
by India’s prime minister, Mr
Photo: David Gubler Narendra Modi, has approved
eight new rail projects that will
New line from India to Bangladesh postponed indefinitely add 900km and 64 new stations
to the Indian Railways (IR)
T HE recent political unrest

in Bangladesh, which saw
prime minister, Ms Sheikh
trial run earlier that month.
India has been keen to start
operations, but progress has
Surveys are underway for
other new rail links between
India and Bangladesh,
network at a cost of Rs 246bn
($US 2.99bn).
They are due to for completion
Hasina, resign and flee to India been slower in Bangladesh including a new line from between 2026 and 2030, according
on August 5, has indefinitely where new loops remain to be Gelephu in Bhutan to India to railways minister, Mr Ashwini
postponed completion of the completed at the border. and Bangladesh, and a line Vaishnaw, creating a new
12.24km line between Agartala In addition, the line from from Nepal to India and corridor from Asansol in West
in India and Akhoura in Akhoura to the Bangladeshi onwards to Bhutan and Bengal to Warangal in Telangana.
Bangladesh. capital Dhaka remains 1000mm Bangladesh. The future of The projects form part of a
The new cross-border line is gauge, and the full trade benefits these projects is also uncertain national masterplan that aims
intended to improve trade of the new link to India are not following Hasina’s fall from to improve passenger and
links between the two expected to materialise until power. freight transport by reaching
countries. On the Indian side, Bangladesh makes more Due to the unrest in areas still unserved by the
5.46km of track has been laid progress with its programme Bangladesh, Indian Railways national network, streamlining
while 98% of tracklaying has to convert 1000mm-gauge lines (IR) suspended all five supply chains and accelerating
been completed in Bangladesh. to 1676mm gauge. passenger services between the economic growth.
India’s prime minister, Mr The latest budget for work two countries on August 5, as The additional capacity will
Narendra Modi, has pursued a on the Indian side of the project, well as cross-border freight. increase freight traffic by 143
“Look East” policy, vigorously funded by the Ministry of Rail freight traffic has grown million tonnes and lower CO₂
promoting new rail links with Development of the North from 665 trains from India to emissions by 870,000 tonnes a
Bangladesh. In November 2023 Eastern Region, is Rs 9.72bn Bangladesh in 2019-20, year, according to Vaishnaw,
he joined Hasina to mark the ($US 11.84m). Work in carrying 1.68 million tonnes, to while reducing India’s oil
inauguration of the Agartala - Bangladesh has been financed 1664 trains carrying 3.71 imports by 320 million litres
Akhoura project, following a by India. million tonnes in 2021-22. annually.

China tests ultra
high-speed maglev
Max Bögl completes demo maglev line
cooperation agreement for the
A N ultra high-speed (UHS)
maglev vehicle has
completed a 2km demonstration
further development of TSB by
Max Bögl and newly-founded
Sichuan Development Maglev
test run in Yanggao county, Technologies, which, like
Shanxi province, northern
Xinzhu, is a subsidiary of
China. The speed achieved
Sichuan Development Holding
has not been revealed, but the
Group.
vehicle is designed to operate
The hope is that the
at up to 1000km/h.
successful demonstration of
This is the first full-size trial
the line, and the new
M
of the super conducting maglev
AX Bögl, Germany, and infrastructure for the elevated cooperation agreement, will
system developed jointly by
Xinzhu Road & Bridge line in more than 650 stimulate the development of
China Aerospace Science &
Machinery, China, have containers from Germany to commercial projects, with
Industry Corporation and
successfully delivered all China, as well as the successful several schemes proposed in
Shanxi, according to Chinese
components for the commissioning of the route China and Germany.
media. The test took place in
construction of a 3.5km with a maglev vehicle built at Bavaria’s prime minister, Dr
a low-vacuum tube, with the
vehicle successfully demonstration maglev line in Max Bögl’s headquarters in Markus Söder, visited the
maintaining a stable ride and Chengdu, China, and the Sengenthal, Germany. demonstrator line in Chengdu
stopping safely. supply of a maglev vehicle and The maglev train has been in March following a visit to
Construction of the test train control technology for the successfully demonstrated on Sengenthal in November 2023.
facility started in 2022 and project. the line, reaching a top speed The city of Nuremberg is
the partners say the successful The agreement to build the of 169km/h during a test with reportedly investigating the
test has confirmed the viability maglev line using Max Bögl’s the three-section vehicle in use of the technology as an
of building and maintaining Transport System Bögl (TSB) April 2021, and 181km/h in alternative to extending its
a long-distance, large-scale technology was signed in 2018. April 2024. light rail network to
vacuum environment. Construction of the line Completion of the project Nuremberg Messe and
required the transport of track was marked by the signing of a Klinikum Süd. IRJ
In brief
Warsaw to the new airport, to avoid level crossings.
Wrocław and Poznań. CPK Further track doubling is
expects to open bids at the end planned on seven lines,
of September, with selection including Khon Kaen - Nong
determined by price (70%) Khai and from Chumphon
and staff qualifications (30%). south to Surat Thani.
Spain UAE
Adif AV says construction of Spanish national operator
the 200km €3.5bn Murcia - Renfe has approved the
Lorca - Almería high-speed opening of an office in the
line is now more than 65% United Arab Emirates (UAE)
complete on the three sections to support its projects and
underway. The 300km/h line enhance its competitiveness in
will plug a gap in the Spanish the region. Renfe says the
rail network as it will extend move aligns with the UAE’s
the important Mediterranean ambitious railway development
Corridor, which currently plans, spearheaded by
extends from the French national company Etihad Rail.
border via Barcelona and
Valencia to Murcia, southwest United States
to the port of Almería. Amtrak is aiming to introduce
passenger services between
Thailand New Orleans and Mobile,
State Railway of Thailand Alabama, in early 2025. Mobile
(SRT) has completed track City Council voted unanimously
doubling of the 421km on August 6 to authorise three
southern main line from crucial agreements that will
Nakhon Pathom to Chumphon allow the operator, in
via Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi cooperation with the Southern
and Prachuap Khiri Khan. The Rail Commission, to run two
new track mainly runs parallel daily trains in each direction,
to the existing metre-gauge with four intermediate stops
track. However, new elevated along the Mississippi Gulf
sections have been constructed Coast.
IRJ ????????
IRJ 20152024 15
September 15
News | transit
Greater Tel Aviv Metro approved

I SRAEL’s parliament has approved plans to build the Greater
Tel Aviv Metro. The 150km three-line network running in
tunnel with 109 stations is costed at Shekels 150bn ($US 40.65bn).
Seven transport hubs will be built to provide interchange with
the city’s three-line, 90km light rail network, as well as buses and
mainline rail services. The new metro system is expected to carry
two million passengers per day.
It is unclear how the project will be financed. No completion
dates have yet been announced, and the first line is not expected
to open until the early 2040s.
New Zealand upgrades Wellington

commuter network
N EW ZEALAND’s
transport minister, Mr
Simeon Brown, has announced
diesel-electric traction with
batteries and the overhead
1.5kV dc supply.
The new route will still connect with the existing Blue and Red lines
an $NZ 800m ($US 469.45m) With procurement now
Calgary cuts back light rail plans investment package for
the Wairarapa and Kapiti
underway, Brown says that all
traction types will be considered.
C ALGARY City Council

has approved a revised
project scope, capital funding
as any future extensions north
or south, will proceed when
additional funding is in place.
commuter lines in Wellington.
Infrastructure upgrades to
support the introduction of a
“The regional council’s
preference is very clearly for
hybrid trains,” he says, “and
request and delivery model The council is also moving new fleet will include raising that is certainly part of the
for Phase 1 of the Green Line from a design-build-finance the maximum speed to 110km/h, mix, but at the end of the day,
light rail project, in order to (DBF) model to awarding a enabling service frequency to value for money is critically
address the cost inflation that series of contracts to build be increased from 2029. important when it comes to
it says is “impacting all major Phase 1. This is expected to The previous Labour every single dollar invested in
infrastructure projects across save $C 600m ($US 432.9m). government announced in transport infrastructure.”
North America.” Despite this work and in the May 2023 that it would be The new fleet is expected to
The new scope and budget absence of additional funding funding a new fleet of 18 four- be delivered by the end of
are based on work to reduce from the Province of Alberta car tri-mode trains, combining 2028.
costs through value and the Canadian government,
engineering and design the City of Calgary has been
optimisation, and informed by forced to increase its financial
the outcome of negotiations contribution for Phase 1,
with contractors during the providing $C 705m towards
development phase of the the revised total project cost of
project. $C 6.25bn. This is up from the
Main construction for Phase budget of $C 5.54bn approved
1 will now start with the core in 2020.
section from Lynnwood/ The City of Calgary will seek
Millican in the southeast to approval of the revised
Eau Claire in the city centre, funding arrangements from
connecting with the existing the provincial and federal
Red and Blue LRT lines. governments, before signing
Construction of the project agreements and
remainder of Phase 1 from beginning main construction
Photo: CC BY-SA 2.0/Takeshi Aida
Lynwood to Shepard, as well later this year.
São Paulo revokes monorail concession Madrid door tender

T HE government of the state of São Paulo in
Brazil has revoked the concession to operate
and maintain the monorail Line 15/Silver in
serves 11 stations, carrying 130,000 passengers a
day.
The first of 18 new trains for Line 15 has been
W ITH a budget of
€100.7m, Madrid
Metro is tendering a contract
the city of São Paulo, awarded in 2019 to the unveiled in the city of Wuhu in China, where
to supply screen doors for
ViaMobilidade consortium. they are being built by CRRC Puzhen Alstom
70 platforms as part of the
According to the state government, the terms Transportation Systems (PATS), a joint venture
project to convert Line 6 to
of the concession contract agreed in 2017-2019 of Alstom and CRRC.
automatic train operation (ATO).
are no longer appropriate. Revoking the The first new train should arrive in Brazil by
Contract award is
concession has no financial implications for the October, with deliveries due for completion by
scheduled for the fourth
state and ViaMobilidade has not objected. 2026. The new fleet will be deployed on two
quarter of this year, with
São Paulo Metro is responsible for operating extensions now under construction by the
work due to start in June
and maintaining Line 15/Silver, as well as future CEML consortium: from Vila Prudente to
2025, alongside a track
investment projects. The 15.3km monorail line Ipiranga, and from Jardim Colonial to Boa
renewal programme.
runs from Vila Prudente to Jardim Colonial and Esperança and Jacu Pêssego.

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In brief
Alstom wins €4bn Cologne Amsterdam project in East Kowloon,

Operator GVB has opened a running for 7km from Choi
S-Bahn fleet contract 4km extension of light rail Line Hung East to Yau Tong East
25, running from Amstelveen with six intermediate stations.
Westwijk to Uithoorn Centrum. Nagpur
Construction began in 2018 ADB is lending $US 200m
and has cost €60m. towards four metro extensions,
Bangkok comprising 43.8km of elevated
line and 32 stations. They are:
Bangkok Expressway and Metro
Automotive Square - Kanhan;
(BEM) has signed a contract to
Prajapati Nagar - Transport
take over construction and
Nagar; Khapri Maharashtra
operation of the 35.9km metro
Industrial Development
Orange Line on behalf of the
Corporation ESR; and
Mass Rapid Transit Authority
Lokmanya Nagar - Hingna.
of Thailand (MRTA). The
22.5km eastern section from Philadelphia
Thai Cultural Centre to Southeastern Pennsylvania
Minburi was substantially Transportation Authority
completed in 2022 and BEM (Septa) has awarded Hitachi
hopes to open it by May 2028. Rail a $US 724.3m contract to
supply 200 metro cars for the
Boston Market - Frankford Line, with
Massachusetts Bay Transportation an option for up to 40 more.
Authority (MBTA) has approved Deliveries will take place from
a $US 54m proposal from its 2029 until the end of 2031.
commuter operating contractor
A LSTOM has been awarded

a contract by German
local transport authorities
versions of the Adessia Stream
EMUs. One is a 150m-long,
nine-car train with capacity for
Keolis to introduce BEMUs on
the 14.8km Fairmount line.
Silicon Valley
The Federal Transit
Keolis will manage the new Administration (FTA) has
go.Rheinland and Rhein-Ruhr up to 1150 passengers. The fleet, expected to enter service committed over $US 5bn to the
Transport Association (VRR) 11-car variant will be 170m in early 2028, as well as power $US 12.7bn project to extend
to supply 90 EMUs for the long, accommodating up to and charging infrastructure and the Bay Area Rapid Transit
Cologne S-Bahn network. 1340 passengers. a new light maintenance facility. (Bart) metro by 9.7km from
Including maintenance over The new trains are expected
Berryessa/North San Jose to
a period of 34 years, the to enter service between June Florence Santa Clara, conditional upon
contract is worth over €4bn 2029 and December 2032. They Hitachi Rail has been awarded the Valley Transportation
and is the largest order for will partly replace the existing a contract to supply 46 battery- Authority (VTA) closing the
Alstom in Germany to date, fleet of class 422, 423 and 424 powered LRVs and a new digital funding gap. VTA has frozen
according to the manufacturer. EMUs and provide additional signalling system with new spending for 60 days and
Alstom will supply two capacity. deliveries of the new fleet to is planning to renegotiate
begin in 2026. Hitachi has also
Baghdad metro bidder revealed
existing contracts.
won a €17m four-year contract
to maintain the existing fleet of Singapore
T HE prime minister of Iraq, Mr Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani,
has met with the consortium selected to design, finance,
build, operate and maintain the 148km driverless metro
46 Hitachi Sirio LRVs.
Hanoi
The Land Transport Authority
(LTA) has awarded KTC Civil
Engineering & Construction a
network planned for Baghdad. The first section of metro Line $S 590m ($US 441.42m) contract
The prime minister’s media office says that the preferred 3 opened on August 8, to build Jurong Lake District
bidder is the Vaskhod & Wonter International Capital Coalition, running for 8.5km from Nhon station on Phase 2 of the Cross
including Alstom, French National Railways (SNCF), Sener, to Cau Giay on an elevated Island Line (CRL2). Work is
Systra, Talgo, Turkish construction companies and Deutsche alignment with eight stations. expected to start in the fourth
Bank. The remaining 4km with four quarter of this year.
Iraq’s National Investment Commission (NIC) started stations running underground
tendering in February for the contract to deliver the seven-line, from Cau Giay to Hanoi Sydney
64-station network, which is expected to cost $US 17.5bn and railway station is due to open The 155km Metro City and
take four years to complete. by December 2027. Southwest Line from Chatswood
to Sydenham entered service
Lahore’s first light rail line approved Hong Kong on August 19. Opening of the
The Highways Department
T
automated metro line had
HE government of Punjab serving key locations such as has awarded a joint venture been postponed following a
province in Pakistan has Liberty, Main Market, Mini led by Arup and Asia major signalling failure on the
approved a project to build an Market and Hali Road. Infrastructure Solutions (AIS) connecting Metro Northwest
11km light rail line in Lahore, According to local media
a $HK 262.5m ($US 33.6m) Line, prompting a review of
the provincial capital, at an reports, LRVs from suppliers
contract to provide design and the new infrastructure and
estimated cost of Rs 27bn in China and Finland are
construction consultancy subsequent approval by the
($US 97m). under consideration as the
services for the Smart and Office of the National Rail
The new line will have stops rolling stock fleet for the new
Green Mass Transit System Safety Regulator (ONRSR). IRJ
located at intervals of 1-1.5km, line.

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News | financial
New Canadian
Photo: Shutterstock/Dinesh Hukmani

Transit Fund
launched
T HE prime minister of
Canada, Mr Justin
Trudeau, has announced the
creation of the Canada Public
Transit Fund and what he
describes as the largest
investment in public transport
in the history of the country,
with $C 30bn ($US 21.8bn)
Indian Railways cancels $US 3.64bn rolling stock tender available over the first 10 years.
I NDIAN Railways’ (IR) Rs production of Vande Bharat initial investment in product The permanent ongoing
300bn ($US 3.64bn) tender to EMUS. Alstom refused to design, as these would have programme will provide an
supply 100 sleeping car reduce its final offer of Rs been the first such products for average of $C 3bn a year,
variants of the 220km/h 1.5bn per train to the Rs 1.4bn the Indian market,” says an divided into three funding
aluminium-bodied Vande requested by IR. The only Alstom spokesperson. streams.
Bharat EMU has been other bidder was the IR sources say there are no An average of $C 2bn a year
discharged following the Hyderabad-based Medha immediate plans to retender will be made available under
breakdown of price Servo Drives, which quoted Rs the contract. IR aims to deploy Metro-Region Agreements,
negotiations with Alstom. The 1.7bn per train. around 250 Vande Bharat intended to support partnerships
manufacturer emerged as the “Alstom made a very sleeper variants in the next five between provinces and major
lowest bidder for the contract competitive offer to IR, given years and a steel-bodied urban centres with the largest
in May last year. The move that the manufacture of these prototype train, manufactured public transport networks,
comes as a blow to the state-of-the-art aluminium by Bharat Earth Movers, is such as Greater Toronto,
operator’s plans to speed up trains required substantial reported to be ready. Vancouver, Winnipeg, Calgary
and Montreal.
Municipalities and public
Indian budget New type of concession transport agencies will be
puts safety first required to develop an
contract signed in France Integrated Regional Plan with
F OLLOWING several train the provincial government.

crashes in recent months,
India’s finance minister, Ms T HE Grand Est region of France has signed a concession
contract with the Nova 14 consortium to reopen the 75km
Nancy - Contrexéville line, closed since 2016, to operate
This will set out how long-
term capital investment in
public transport, complemented
Nirmala Sitharaman, has
approved spending of passenger services and maintain infrastructure over the 22-year by land use and housing policy,
Rs 1.09 trillion ($US 20.5bn) term of the concession. will help to meet the core
by Indian Railways (IR) to Nova 14 comprises NGE Concessions (50%), Transdev (20%), objectives of the new fund to
improve safety in 2024-25. and Banque des Territoires (30%), part of Groupe Caisse des Dépôts. increase public transport use
While Sitharaman made no The signing of the contract also saw financial close on a €200m as well as housing supply and
specific mention of the rail funding package. The European Investment Bank (EIB) will lend affordability.
sector in her budget speech 50% of the total, with CIC, Banque Postale, Caisse d’Epargne The largest awards will be
on July 23, official documents Grand Est Europe and Nord/LB each providing the remainder in made to the most ambitious
reveal that funding for IR equal proportions. partnerships, according to the
will be Rs 2.62 trillion, up “This is the first rail contract that the Grand Est region has government, including those
from the previous record of awarded to a private operator since the market opened up to that can best demonstrate how
Rs 2.4 trillion in 2023-24. competition and the first contract in France to operate under a investment in public transport
The Indian government new model, enabling a single contractor to provide railway will help build more homes.
will provide Rs 2.52 trillion operations and infrastructure management,” says Mr Thierry An average of $C 500m per
in budgetary support for IR, Bodard, president of Nova 14 and NGE Concessions. year is expected to be available
while Rs 100bn will come Work to reopen the line will take three-and-a-half years to for upgrading or replacing
from extra budgetary complete at a cost of €150m. This will include track renewals and infrastructure with another
resources. installing automatic signalling controlled from Mirecourt, where $C 500m available for “key
Railways minister, Mr a new rolling stock depot will also be built. priorities” such as
Ashwani Vaishnaw, says the Infrastructure work will be undertaken by nine NGE electrification.
upgraded Version 2.0 of India’s subsidiaries, led by its tracklaying business TSO. Passenger Funding will start in 2026.
domestically-developed Kavach operations, as well as infrastructure and rolling stock Applications for two funding
ATP system has been approved maintenance, will be undertaken by a separate company owned streams are open now. The
by the Research and by Transdev Rail (75%) and NGE Exploitation (25%). federal government says this
Development Standards At the time of closure there were six return services a day, but will provide public transport
Organisation (RDSO) and he when the line reopens on December 12 2027 there will be 16 agencies and municipalities
now expects “rapid return services a day between Nancy and Contrexéville as well as with the funding certainty
deployment.” 14 between Nancy and Pont-Saint-Vincent, using existing DMUs. needed to move projects
The journey time from Nancy to Contrexéville will be 1h 10min. forward.

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News | financial In brief
Talgo rejects Škoda merger offer Denmark

Regional operator Lokaltog
Malaysia
Malayan Railways (KTMB) is
T ALGO has rejected a

proposal made by Škoda
Group in July to merge the
Orban, an ally of Russia’s
president, Mr Vladimir Putin.
“Our project is independent
has selected Stadler to supply
14 BEMUs to operate on routes
in Zealand, with an option for
to procure 62 trains from
CRRC, comprising 36 three-car
EMUs, 12 six-car EMUs, and
two businesses as a potential of the Spanish government’s 10 more trains. The contract is 14 six-car DMUs. The deal is
alternative to the acquisition of actions,” Novotný says. expected to be signed in expected to be worth
the Spanish rolling stock “This is a matter between October. CAF and Siemens Ringgits 10.7bn ($US 2.4bn),
manufacturer by Hungarian companies, and it involves Mobility were also shortlisted. with deliveries initially
consortium Ganz-Mavag sitting down with the Talgo running from 2024 to 2027 and
Europe, whose offer the Talgo board to discuss products, Estonia leasing payments to CRRC
board has already endorsed. technology and markets.” The government has given its spread over 30 years.
In its letter to the company’s “Talgo will be able to approval to proceed with the
board of directors, the Talgo appreciate the benefits of our second stage of privatising Netherlands
board notes that Škoda has proposal,” Novotný adds. freight operator Operail, Netherlands Railways (NS)
“no intention whatsoever” to “We’ve decided to maintain where selected bidders will has reported an operating loss
make an offer competing with communication with the prepare a binding purchase of €109m for the first half of
that made by Ganz-Mavag company and will do so offer. The first stage where 2024, after fares income and
Europe on March 7 to acquire through a letter that we’ll be bidders submitted non- revenue from season tickets
100% of Talgo’s shares. sending to its CEO.” binding offers attracted proved insufficient to meet
Talgo previously informed interest from a wide range of higher operating costs.
Spain’s National Securities
Market Commission (CNMV) Open dialogue potential purchasers from
Estonia and abroad, according
Passenger traffic in the first
half of 2024 was up 6.4% on
that it had asked Škoda for more “We’re insisting on opening to transport minister, Mr the year before, but less than
details of its merger proposal. a dialogue and will explain the Vladimir Svet. expected and still just 94% of
This specifically included project’s benefits to various pre-pandemic levels.
whether Škoda would offer shareholders whose interests France
Talgo shareholders a higher may not necessarily align.” The government has agreed to Poland
price than Ganz-Mavag The Ganz-Mavag Europe pay €30.2m to Hello Paris, the The Office of Rail Transport
Europe, and whether this bid of €5 for every Talgo share consortium of Keolis and (UTK) has granted Czech
would be paid in cash. represents a premium of 40% RATP Dev selected to operate operator RegioJet a new
“We are surprised that our on the company’s share price. the CDG Express service open-access passenger licence,
offer wasn’t given due The Talgo board has written connecting the French capital enabling it to introduce a daily
consideration,” Škoda Group to the Spanish government with Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle round trip between Prague,
chairman and CEO, Mr Petr several times, complaining airport. This is to compensate Katowice, Kraków, Rzeszów
Novotný, told Spanish that the delay in approving it for additional costs arising and Przemyśl from
business newspaper Cinco the acquisition and rumours of from delays to the project, December 14 2025. Greater
Días. “We can offer a more a possible veto are causing which have pushed back the Poland Railways (KW) has
detailed proposal once we serious harm to the company. contractual opening date from been granted two licences,
have evaluated the company.” Talgo shareholders are also November 30 2025 to covering one round trip on
The Spanish government in favour of a decision being March 28 2027. summer Saturdays and
has firmly stated its opposition made soon. ABC reports that • Vossloh France has agreed Sundays from Poznan to
to Talgo being acquired by minority shareholders have
to acquire Sateba Group from Gdynia and from Poznan to
Ganz-Mavag Europe. threatened to sue the
TowerBrook Capital Partners the Baltic Sea resort of Ustka.
The company is alleged to government, holding it
for €450m. Paris-based Sateba
have close ties with Hungary’s responsible for any losses they
is a leading European Spain
prime minister, Mr Viktor may suffer. Infrastructure manager Adif
manufacturer of concrete
sleepers and related will invest €119.6m to electrify
infrastructure components, at 25kV 50Hz ac the 315km
with 1120 employees and Zaragoza - Teruel - Sagunto
19 production sites in broad-gauge line for freight
10 countries. traffic. A further €107m will be
spent on the Madrid -
Guinea Zaragoza section of the future
The SimFer joint venture of the Algeciras - Madrid - Zaragoza
government of Guinea, Rio piggyback route to allow road
Tinto and Chalco Iron Ore semi-trailers to move by train.
Holdings (CIOH) has awarded • The European Investment
Wabtec a $US 277m contract to Bank (EIB) is lending Adif AV
supply Evolution Series €430m to fund construction of
ES43ACmi diesel freight the Vitoria - Bilbao section of
locomotives. SimFer is the182km Basque Y, the high-
working to develop the speed line connecting Vitoria,
Simandou iron ore deposits, Bilbao and San Sebastián. This
which includes construction of is the last tranche of a loan of up
the 670km Trans-Guinean to €1.03bn agreed in 2017 and
Railway. increased to €1.43bn in 2021. IRJ
Photo: Shutterstock/Maksim Safaniuk

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News | analysis
PKP Cargo appeals to government for rescue funding

The Polish freight operator is struggling with $US 1.3bn in debt blamed on policy decisions made by the
previous administration, as Robert Preston reports.
P KP Cargo, the freight

business of Polish national
operator PKP, has appealed to
This was at the expense of
other profitable traffic, according
to the current management
that as a result of decisions made
in error, “material damage of
great value” was done to PKP
fails to pay social security
contributions and tax.
The current management
the prime minister and the board. It says that after the finances as revenue was lost and has also issued a fierce rebuttal
minister of state assets to first policy decision, PKP Cargo anticipated profit did not to what say is “false information”
compensate the company for informed the minister of state materialise. that has appeared on a social
policy decisions made by the assets in August 2022 that The financial situation at PKP media account held by
previous administration that implementation would incur Cargo is described as “very Morawiecki, blaming the
have left it struggling with a additional operating costs and bad,” with the company current government for PKP
debt burden amounting to leave the freight operator unable to meet some liabilities Cargo’s current situation
Zlotys 5.1bn ($US 1.3bn) in 2023. unable to honour contracts nor pay all of its invoices, rather than his own Law and
The current management with existing customers. according to Wojewódka. Justice (PiS) party.
board has joined all the unions “The financial and business
“
representing employees at the consequences of this decision,
company in signing letters the loss of some customers
calling for urgent compensation, and their trust in the company,
which they say “may help are still felt today,” says Mr Eight years of PiS rule have destroyed
save the company.” Marcin Wojewódka, acting
At PKP Cargo’s request, president of PKP Cargo. PKP Cargo. PKP management statement
Zimmerman Filipiak The current management
Restructuring was appointed in board says that Morawiecki’s
July to prepare a report on the actions constitute interference
company’s assets and liabilities. with PKP Cargo’s freedom to
This report will enable the conduct its business as a “We still maintain financial “Eight years of PiS rule have
Warsaw District Court to decide private listed company where liquidity,” he says, describing destroyed PKP Cargo,” the
whether or not to commence the state only holds a 33.01% how money is found from statement says, noting that the
restructuring proceedings. share via its parent PKP. month to month to pay staff company lost 90% of its
In 2022 the PKP Cargo Implementation of these wages. As well as announcing market value between 2014,
management board at that policy decisions without the redundancies, PKP Cargo is when it was worth over Zlotys
time implemented two policy prior agreement of the minister seeking court permission to 4bn, and April when this had
decisions made by Poland’s of state assets forms one thread restructure, but this will be fallen to Zlotys 600m.
former prime minister, of an investigation opened by conditional upon the company Morawiecki has also posted
Mr Mateusz Morawiecki, the Regional Prosecutor’s meeting its current liabilities. a video on social media
directing wagons to the Baltic Office in Warsaw. PKP Cargo will be unable to pointing out that PKP Cargo
ports to carry coal. The current management says bid for freight contracts if it made a profit of over Zlotys
80m as late as 2023. The
current management board
Photo: Shutterstock/Samo451
says that this omits the

liabilities of over Zlotys 5.1bn
that the company must meet.
The board also points out that
it has repeatedly confirmed,
together with members of the
current government including
infrastructure minister, Mr
Dariusz Klimczak, that PKP
Cargo is of strategic national
importance.
“There are no plans to
liquidate or sell it,” the board
says. “On the contrary, the
current board is doing its best
to get the company out of the
disastrous situation it found
itself in after eight years of PiS
rule.”
“Our goal is to fix the situation,”
Wojewódka says. “We are on
the right track, but without
money it may not be possible,
and there is a shortage of
Zimmerman Filipiak Restructuring is preparing a report that will determine whether PKP Cargo is restructured. money in the company.” IRJ

17:16
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World market | analysis
Global railway market exceeds €200bn for the first time

In its bi-annual report on the current health of the global railway market, released in time for InnoTrans,
SCI Verkehr projects steady growth of 4% over the next five years, as managing partner, Maria Leenen,
and senior manager, Andreas Wolf, explain.
T HE global railway industry’s service through the deployment fleets of older rolling stock suppliers to meet high quality
market volume surpassed of ATO and CBTC solutions and with ETCS, but with only standards by delivering the
the €200bn mark for the first AI-supported systems from limited industry capacity to latest technology.
time in 2023 and is projected the start. carry out the work. The European market,
to grow steadily by 4% per In contrast, much-needed China has been the growth which is worth €67.2bn, will
year over the next five years. upgrades of many existing engine of the global railway grow at 5.4% per year over the
Challenges such as networks are only possible at a market for decades. The country next few years due to high
worldwide supply chain very high cost. Existing remains the largest national investment in existing
disruption and the surge in technologies are increasingly railway market with a volume networks and a demand to
energy costs have been becoming obsolete and are of nearly €40bn. However, increase both urban and high-
overcome, or at least also unsuitable for delivering growth in the next five years speed line capacity.
mitigated, in the past two urgently-needed increases in will only be generated in the
years. The biggest challenge capacity or to improve after-sales market.
now is the digitalisation of operational reliability and safety. In terms of the Asian market, Freight
railway operations and the However, replacement is much the largest overall at €69.3bn, this Global rail freight transport
entire transport and logistics more complex and challenging, development is at least partially is driven by economic
chain, which is driving and upgrades can only be offset by strong momentum in developments and the
disproportionate growth in implemented gradually and at India, where the expansion of performance of commodities
system technology. a slower pace than installing rail systems enjoys strong and trade. Following a quick
This sector is expected to systems on a new line. political support. India, recovery from the impact of
grow by 4.6% per year over Despite notable progress already in third place behind Covid-19 and a sharp decline
the next five years, outpacing with some pilot projects, and China and Russia in the OEM in 2020, the sector reported
the established markets for already-established examples sector, is increasingly supplied strong growth in 2021 and
railway infrastructure and of automated systems working by the international railway 2022. However, rail freight
rolling stock. New rail effectively on metro networks, industry, which is working performance stagnated in 2023.
networks, particularly in the the complete automation of alongside local manufacturers. Asia, the CIS, and North
Middle East, are setting conventional railway networks The Africa/Middle East America account for 87% of
improved standards for is still a distant prospect due region is set to record annual the global rail freight transport
modern and highly-digitalised to the high investment cost. In growth of nearly 8% per year market. Asia accounts for
railway operations. In contrast, Europe, installation of over the next five years, the almost 40% of all tonne-km
upgrading existing networks trackside and onboard ETCS fastest-growing region in the transported, well ahead of any
to accept digital systems is equipment is an important world, although from a other single region. Asia will
proving immensely time- prerequisite for further relatively low base of €7.7bn. continue to be the growth driver
consuming and costly, partly digitalising rail transport. Yet In the Middle East, many new over the next five years, with
because it must be done while high expectations are not rail networks are currently an average annual growth rate
rail lines remain open to traffic. matched by progress on the under development, and this of 2.8%. Even higher growth rates
The Chinese market, which Global
ground. railway
In addition, industry
there is a market
is driving including
innovation in regional
the developments
in rail freight transport are
is also the world’s largest, is need to retrofit substantial global industry by requiring expected as new projects come
now only growing in the after-
sales segment. But this is Global railway industry market by region and projected growth up to 2028
counterbalanced by the strong The global rail market will grow at a CAGR of 4.0% until 2028
growth in new business in other
geographic territories, notably
India and the Middle East.
The high uncertainty caused CIS
by an unstable geopolitical € 26.1bn
situation is leading to Europe Ò 2.6%
increased protectionism within North America € 67.2bn
€ 28.8bn Ò 5.4%
the railway industry. Indeed,
the market accessible to Ò 3.7% Asia
international suppliers has € 69.3bn
shrunk significantly in recent Ò 2.6%
years, with little sign that this
trend will reverse.
Africa/Middle East
The deployment of new
€ 7.7bn
transport systems through South/Central America Ò 7.8%
greenfield projects have a clear € 3.6bn Australia
advantage when it comes to Ò 7.0% € 4.1bn
advancing digital operations. Ò 4.1%
They are able to set new
Average market volume 2022-2024; Ò CAGR 2023-2028
standards of performance and Source: MultiClient Study ‘Worldwide Market for Railway Industries 2024’ © SCI Verkehr
26 © SCI Verkehr GmbH / www.sci.de / 08.08.2024 IRJ September 2024

11819-2017_LVF_005_MACS_2024_08-ENG-USA-210x290-v01.indd 1 14.08.2024 9:44
Market development per main rolling stock segment
World market | analysis
propulsion technologies such
Market volume
Market volume anddevelopment
and market marketby development
main product segment by main product segment
as battery, LNG, or hydrogen
150 6% has gained a foothold.
However, a number of
prototypes from a range of
manufacturers and industry
Growth rate 2023-2028 (CAGR in %)

partners have been developed
Market volume 2023 (EUR billion)
100 4% and are undergoing extensive

testing in several countries.
For passenger vehicles,
however, development is
much further advanced, and
50 2%
the market volume for trains
with alternative propulsion
systems is expected to increase
TOP-5 country markets worldwide significantly in the coming
years. However, it must be
noted that the installation of
© SCI Verkehr
0 0%
Infrastructure System technology Rolling stock
alternative drive concepts
leads to notably higher unit
TopSource:
5 worldwide railway markets
Market for (2023, EUR 2024’billion)
Top five national rail markets (2023, €bn) costs per vehicle, while the
MultiClient Study ‘Worldwide Railway Industries © SCI Verkehr
© SCI Verkehr GmbH / www.sci.de / 08.08.2024 operational benefits are much 3
the same.
China As well as costs, sustainability
is presenting challenges for the
rail sector. These include saving
USA energy in energy-intensive
production processes and
railway operations; transitioning
Russia to renewable energy; and using
new sustainable products
instead of CO₂-intensive
Germany
materials like steel, aluminum
and concrete in the construction
of new infrastructure.
India
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Protectionism
OEM After-sales The isolation of the Russian
Market
M k t volume
l iincludes
l d markets
k t for
f rolling
lli stock,
t k iinfrastructure
f t t and
d system
t ttechnology
h l
railway technology market,
Source: MultiClient Study ‘Worldwide Market for Railway Industries 2024’ which began in 2022, has been
online in the Africa/Middle East Despite this relatively low electrification have not yet been further intensified by heavy
© SCI Verkehr GmbH / www.sci.de / 19.08.2022
region, although volumes here share, significant work is achieved. Many electrification sanctions over the past two
are starting from a low base. underway to decarbonise rail projects are time-consuming years. European and North
In contrast, the European operations, in particular and costly, and complete American companies have
rail freight market has been in reducing the use of diesel, in network electrification is often withdrawn from the market,
a structural crisis since at least pursuit of net zero. not economically feasible. resulting in major cuts in local
2023, which can only be A key factor in this Nevertheless, the market production and maintenance,
overcome through significant transition is electrification. The volume in Europe is growing particularly for modern and
efficiency improvements and market volume for new and by nearly 8% per year, albeit high-performance components.
more competition between upgraded rail electrification is from a low base. These shortfalls have now
operators. Increased political expected to grow at 5.8% per In North America, the extent largely been compensated by
support is essential if such a year over the next five years. of electrification remains at only domestic production or imports
turnaround is to happen. In Asia, significant progress in 2% of the total 260,000km from Asia, and the Russian
electrification has been made network and is not expected to railway industry appears
over the last decade, which is rise significantly in the coming surprisingly strong in terms of
Electrification also boosting network years. current delivery volumes.
Expanding rail freight and performance. China’s 160,000km For these types of rail In other regions, there is
passenger traffic will play a network is nearly 75% electrified, networks, which transport also an increasing emphasis on
crucial role in achieving while India is on the path to heavy loads over long local production to reduce
climate change goals within electrifying its entire 126,000km distances, the rail industry is dependence on global
the transport sector, which rail network. working intensively on manufacturers. A good
remains the second-largest In Europe, the share of technical solutions to replace example is the decision by the
overall emitter, accounting for electrification is significantly diesel technology. However, German government to ban
approximately a quarter of all lower at 54%. The political there is still a long way to go components from Chinese
global greenhouse emissions. objectives set by some European before diesel locomotives in manufacturers Huawei and
Rail accounts for just 1% of countries, such as Britain and heavy haul freight transport ZTE in the 5G standard,
these, according to the Germany, to substantially can be replaced across the mirroring similar restrictions
International Energy Agency. increase the rate of board. So far, none of the new by 10 other European

Top-10 suppliers railway industry
Top 10 railway suppliers by estimated rail revenue 20231 (EUR billion2) grown significantly in recently
Top 10 railway suppliers by estimated revenue 2023 (€bn) years, following a spate of
acquisitions to occupy fourth
1 CRRC
and fifth place respectively
2 Alstom behind Siemens Mobility in
3 Siemens Mobility third. Hitachi announced the
acquisition of Thales’ Ground
4 Hitachi Rail Systems*
Transportation Systems (GTS)
5 Wabtec business unit in May 2024. The
6 Ÿ Knorr-Bremse combined total revenue of both
business activities amounted to
7 ź Transmashholding
€7.3bn in 2023 and have already
8 ź Stadler Rail been taken into account in our
9 Ÿ The Greenbrier Companies ranking (see table). Wabtec has
recorded strong organic
10 ź CAF growth, particularly in the
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 resurgent freight segment in
North America over the past
2023 2021 two years.
1 Revenue partly estimated. Financial years ending in the first half of 2024 have been assigned to the year 2023 As it was in 2022, Greenbrier
2 Foreign currencies have been converted with the average yearly exchange rate
is the only specialised wagon
* Including revenues of Thales Ground Transportation Systems
Source: MultiClient Study ‘Worldwide Market for Railway Industries 2024’ © SCI Verkehr manufacturer in the top 10
countries including Britain, remains the largest railway manufacturer is the clear ranking of equipment
France, Italy,
© SCI Verkehr GmbHSweden
/ www.sci.deand
/ 08.08.2024
technology company worldwide, market leader outside of China manufacturers, rising one
Denmark in recent years. albeit with stagnating revenue and could take the overall lead place to ninth. Specialist
CRRC pulled out of a bid for a growth. A slight increase in in the coming years. Alstom’s infrastructure manufacturers,
Bulgarian fleet contract earlier exports is not making up for potential is reflected in its however, do not make it into
this year when the European the shortfall created by the greater diversity of products. the top 10, although currency
Commission (EC) launched an declining domestic market. It generates revenue in fluctuations in 2024 are again
investigation into potential This trend is expected to infrastructure, system making precise global
market distortion by means of continue in the coming years. technology, and rolling stock, comparison difficult. IRJ
alleged government subsidy. Hot on CRCC’s heels is while CRRC specialises in
Nevertheless, CRRC, with a Alstom. With revenue of over rolling stock production. To order the complete report
revenue of nearly €20bn, €17.5bn, the French Hitachi and Wabtec have visit www.sci.de
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Germany | funding
Germany’s railway faces financial headwinds

German Rail (DB) is looking to deal with challenges to both its passenger and freight businesses, while
simultaneously recognising that funding of the country’s rail infrastructure is increasingly insecure, as
Keith Fender reports.
While popular with passengers and politicians, the Deutschlandticket initiative

has exposed the financial fragility of Germany’s railways. Photo: DB/Dominic Dupont
G
ERMANY was the proud host distance passenger numbers, increase on imported Russian natural gas.
of this summer’s Euro 2024 rail freight’s market share from 18% to Energy prices and many other costs
Uefa European Football 25%, reduce rail’s share of carbon increased rapidly and remain much
Championship, which took place in 10 emissions, and cut those generated by higher than they were in 2019.
cities across the country between June road vehicles by winning both passenger To encourage rail use following the
14 and July 14, and attracted thousands and freight traffic. Euro 2024 was the pandemic, and to support the wider
of additional visitors. perfect opportunity to showcase DB’s goal of modal shift to public transport,
National operator German Rail (DB) successes over the first five years of the the government launched the
was a major sponsor of the tournament programme. But several issues have Deutschlandticket in May 2023. Priced
and offered additional trains plus a conspired to make progress slow and to at €49, the subscription-based ticket
range of attractive tickets for fans to threaten the programme’s very future. offers unlimited travel on regional and
encourage travel by rail. However, the Germany’s current tripartite coalition local services for a month, and followed
event generated large amounts of government came to power in 2021 and the successful three-month 9-euro ticket
negative domestic and international agreed a series of ambitious transport pilot in the summer of 2022.
press coverage about the state of policy goals. As well as working to The Deutschlandticket is politically
Germany’s railway, much to DB’s meet existing Strong Rail targets, the popular and sales have been encouraging
embarrassment. government also committed to investing - at the end of June 2024 there were
Trains were routinely delayed or much more in rail infrastructure, partly 11.2 million subscribers, a figure the
cancelled due to infrastructure financed by fees paid by lorries to use Association of German Transport
problems or severe weather. In some Germany’s roads, and to markedly Companies (VDV) expects to rise to
cases, insufficient capacity was support the transition away from diesel 15 million by the end of the year. In the
provided for the crowds attending traction through electrification, battery first full year of its existence 20 million
matches, all contributing to the poor and hydrogen technology. These goals passengers are estimated to have used a
performance for which has DB publicly were set out before Russia’s invasion of Deutschlandticket. But in the context of
apologised (IRJ August p13). Ukraine in 2022. While the pandemic the wider economy and industry finances
This is all the more poignant as both led to far less travel and the adoption of it represents an additional pressure on
DB and the German government working from home by many, the war an already difficult financial situation.
launched the Strong Rail strategy in in Ukraine suddenly upended Germany’s Germany’s national rail network is
2019, which aims to double long- energy policy, which was overly reliant one of contrasts. On one hand, the
country boasts an extensive high-speed The current government is seeking to suffered a legal defeat when a court
network, mostly operated with a fleet of correct this funding imbalance by ruled that it was solely liable for the
modern ICE trains built in Germany, investing more in the west, pushing cost overruns. DB had sought to share
with more on order and a new train ahead with major increases in rail these with its project partners at
currently being delivered every two infrastructure spending by drawing on regional and national government level.
weeks. Service frequencies are much the Climate and Transformation Fund The government has since adopted
higher than on some other European (KTF). several methods to make up some of
high-speed lines. On the other hand, The fund draws on income from the potential shortfall in funding
most major cities, especially in the west carbon emissions trading, estimated at promised to the rail sector. Some
of the country, are experiencing several €19bn in 2024, plus grants or loans from projects have been shelved or had their
infrastructure failures each week, the government. It is intended to fund funding cut, while the revenue support
disrupting services both locally and climate change mitigation measures provided to freight and commercial
across the country as the network has without recourse to tax revenue. passenger operators during the
many key hubs, rather than being However, plans to add a grant of pandemic, in the form of almost
focused on one major city. around €60bn to the KTF in 2022-23, completely subsidised track access
“
using authorised emergency Covid-19 charges, has come to an end. The
pandemic expenditure that had not government has also channelled some
DB is now facing the been used, were contested by MPs and new funds to infrastructure manager
resulted in a case before the DB InfraGO by raising the amount of
prospect of additional Constitutional Court. The court ruled in share capital it holds in the wider DB
late 2022 that the money should not be Group. However, this is controversial as
costs of at least €4bn used in the KTF fund, leading to a huge DB InfraGO is legally required to pay
hole in planned investment expenditure interest on these sums (p34).
relating to the late- across the national economy.
For the rail sector, KTF funding was
running and politically expected to contribute around €12.5bn Passenger transport
controversial Stuttgart of the €40bn in additional funding The Deutschlandticket appears to
agreed by the government for the have produced modest increases in
21 project. national rail network between 2024 and regional passenger traffic. According to
2027. The money would finance widescale the Federal Statistical Service, Destatis,
introduction of ERTMS over the next passenger traffic on all trains and public
Since the reunification of East and decade, with funding of €1.3bn in 2024 transport systems in Germany,
West Germany in 1990, rail investment rising to around €3.5bn a year by 2033. including light rail and metros, was up
has been heavily biased towards the If this shortfall wasn’t bad enough, 7% year-on-year in 2023, but passenger-
east, reinstating links between cities and DB is now facing the prospect of journeys were 8% down compared with
building high-speed lines to connect additional costs of at least €4bn relating 2019 before the pandemic. The most
Berlin’s new main station, which to the late-running and politically recent DB half-year results released in
opened in 2006, with Leipzig, controversial Stuttgart 21 project in the July show that regional trains operated
Nuremberg and Munich. southwest of the country. In May, DB by DB Regio experienced a 6% increase
www.linsinger.com

Germany | funding
in passenger numbers in the first six most cases receive all the revenue long-distance punctuality has reached
months of 2024, and that regional collected by operators. an all-time low, with just 62.7% of trains
passengers are making longer journeys. The increasingly poor reliability of arriving on time, compared with 90.8%
For some regular commuters, the the network is most keenly felt and of DB Regio trains. The results also
Deutschlandticket has reduced ticket perhaps most evident on long-distance show that DB Long Distance carried
prices for existing journeys by around passenger services, almost all of which fewer passengers in the first half of this
€200 or more a month, whilst also are run by DB subsidiary DB Long year, down 5.9%on the same period in
offering unlimited travel on most public Distance. This near-monopoly makes 2023.
transport nationwide for free. This has the company an easy target, as the While it is difficult to ascertain
led to a significant drop in income for problems during Euro 2024 highlighted. whether this is due to the long-running
some transport authorities, which in DB’s 2024 half-year results reveal that strikes in late 2023 and early 2024 or
passengers switching to the
Freight woes continue for DB Deutschlandticket and regional services,
G
it is certainly conceivable that poor
ERMANY’s rail freight sector faced major challenges in 2023. As a result, reliability is turning passengers away
freight traffic slumped by 23 billion tonne-km, a 10% fall on the previous year, from long-distance rail travel, with the
almost down to the level recorded in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. most likely beneficiaries air and road.
A combination of factors, including more infrastructure work and resulting This reverse modal shift is precisely
closures across the rail network, strikes in Germany and neighbouring countries, what government funding has sought
weather-related restrictions and the fall-out from accidents, such as the partial to avoid.
closure of the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, have pushed up costs for
“
freight operators that they are not necessarily able to pass onto their customers.
Private freight operators have fared best in these challenging conditions, with an
overall decline in tonne-km of 7%, while some have even recorded an increase.
The worst performer was state-owned DB Cargo, which saw traffic drop by 13%.
Political support for
The company has made an Ebit loss every year for over a decade, despite policies that encourage
substantial financial support from parent company DB.
This funding was queried by the European Commission (EC) in 2022, when it modal shift of freight
opened a state aid investigation into the company. In response, in February this
year DB Cargo announced a major restructuring programme that immediately from road to rail
raised the ire of rail unions, which said that 1800 jobs were under threat. DB Cargo
described union statements on job losses as “irresponsible scaremongering,” but appears to be waning.
admitted that internal staff transfers between DB companies are planned.
DB’s half-year report confirms that the transformation programme is underway,
stating that DB Cargo will be restructured from the start of 2025, based on “the
simplification of production structures and processes.” DB Cargo says it has The current administration has
developed a new concept for wagonload traffic, which will be introduced with the guaranteed funding to keep the
timetable change on December 15. It says existing services will become “a supply- Deutschlandticket available in 2025,
oriented, high-frequency train network.” when the next general election will be
The future viability of DB Cargo will come under even greater scrutiny when held, yet the overall funding settlement
the planned sale of DB’s logistics subsidiary DB Schenker is completed early next from the federal government, originally
year. Divestment of this very profitable part of DB, which recorded an adjusted budgeted at €11.22bn for 2024, is
Ebit operating profit of €520m in the first six months of 2024, was announced in insufficient to fund all existing operating
December 2023. A preferred bidder from a shortlist of four is expected to be contracts awarded by regional
announced this summer. governments. The federal government
On a positive note, government funding of up to €320m for wagonload services and state governments have provided
in 2024, part of a €1.7bn five-year programme, was signed off by the EC in May. additional funding of over €3bn. However,
Photo: Keith Fender this is proving insufficient following
significant increases in energy and
labour costs after a successful campaign
by unions for large wage increases,
helped in part by a nationwide shortage
of drivers. As a result, transport
authorities in several parts of Germany
are reducing service levels, especially at
evenings and weekends, or evaluating
plans to do so.
The increased cost base set against
reduced revenue also appears to be
influencing private operators’ activities
in the German regional market. In
February, British public transport group
Go-Ahead sold its operating concessions
in Germany to Austrian Federal
Railways (ÖBB), which has rebranded
Go-Ahead Germany as Arverio.
Netherlands Railways (NS) subsidiary challenged in the courts by freight transport, citing the Federal Ministry of
Abellio, once a major player in the operators. Digital Infrastructure and Transport’s
German regional market, handed back Overall cost inflation, coupled with (BMDV) own forecasts and calling for
several contracts following financial revenue depressed by the additional funding for the road network
difficulties in 2021, having reportedly Deutschlandticket, is leading to a as well as rail. As if to confirm the
lost more than €250m over the previous potential cost-cutting spiral where service change in sentiment, the government in
decade. Abellio’s remaining business in levels decline, as does patronage. If the late June proposed an additional €1bn
Germany was sold to private operator legal challenges against the decision to of funding for the road network, using
BeNEX in April. Britain’s National load track access charge increases onto money taken from funds assigned to
Express Group took over some of the freight and commercial passenger rail infrastructure.
former Abellio contracts in the Ruhr operators result in regional transport Furthermore, in early August, pro-rail
region, but has more recently warned authorities having to pay more, these lobby groups, reacting to the draft 2025
investors that they are underperforming funding problems will rapidly become a federal budget agreed by the cabinet the
against expectations. crisis. Some politicians, including the previous month, suggested that the
To deflect some of the cost pressure current transport minister, Dr Volker government was considering replacing
from PSO services, the Federal Network Wissing, have started publicly directly-awarded subsidies for rail
Agency approved the increase in track discussing the need to increase the price infrastructure with compulsory loans,
access charges planned by DB InfraGO of the Deutschlandticket, or keep the channelled through DB InfraGO in the
for 2025, with charges rising for long- price at €49 and limit its validity to a method described above. They pointed
distance passenger trains by 17.7% and smaller geographical area from 2025 to a capital injection of €3.02bn from the
for freight trains by 16.2%. Thanks to onwards. An increase in the price in government to DB Group in late June,
the policy decision to shield regional January now appears inevitable. assigned to increased infrastructure
passenger services, and the public These debates are playing out while funding via DB InfraGO. Bodies such as
transport authorities and regional political support for policies that VDV’s scientific advisory board are
governments that fund them, from such encourage modal shift of freight from increasingly vociferous in demanding
increases, charges here will only road to rail appears to be waning across that rail investment should be financed
increase by 0.6%, giving a nominal the board in Germany. The main by public subsidy which does not lead
overall increase of 6% per train-km on opposition Christian Democratic Union to higher user costs through
the German national network. This (CDU/CSU) party has recently said that indebtedness and interest payments by
decision is controversial and is being road will remain the main mode of DB InfraGO. IRJ
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Germany | infrastructure
DB InfraGO stops the trains to improve the network

Germany’s infrastructure manager is barely eight months old, but it has had to grow up quickly as it faces
hostility from passengers and operators over its strategy of complete line closures and track access charge
increases. Mark Simmons reports.
T
HE complete and lengthy closure create what DB InfraGO describes as a section of the network in question. DB
of stretches of railway line for high-capacity network by 2030, that will InfraGO believes that total line closures
maintenance purposes has long ensure that the busiest routes have are more efficient and cost-effective
been a bugbear for travellers on enough capacity for the trains needed to than worksites where one or more lines
Germany’s extensive 33,000km network run on them and provide high-quality remain open to traffic, or a large
that is used by over 50,000 trains daily. infrastructure that is resilient to the number of smaller line closures.
Now these types of closures have heavy traffic it will be subjected to
become official policy as the country’s every day.
new infrastructure manager DB To achieve this goal, DB InfraGO
“
InfraGO struggles to deal with a intends to upgrade 4000 route-km,
network that, especially in the west of divided into 40 corridors. In 2024, the
the country, has suffered from years of infrastructure manager expects to invest
under-investment and insufficient
DB InfraGO intends
€16.4bn in projects across the network.
maintenance (p30). In a number of locations it is instituting to upgrade 4000
DB InfraGO, formed at the start of what it terms a complete modernisation
this year by the merger of previous programme. This involves the route-km, divided into
infrastructure manager DB Network comprehensive renewal of all rail-
with fellow German Rail (DB) related infrastructure from the ballast 40 corridors.
subsidiary DB Station & Service, upwards, including signalling,
adopted a seven-point strategy to electrification and stations. To the
address the ailing infrastructure it had dismay of frustrated passengers, it also
inherited. This includes an aspiration to means the complete closure of the
Work on the €1.3bn project to upgrade the Riedbahn, DB InfraGO’s first comprehensive modernisation scheme, commenced this summer. Photo: DB/ Stefan Wildhirt

The first comprehensive of DB InfraGO’s total €4bn revenue in
modernisation project kicked off on July the first six months of this year.
15, immediately after the end of the According to industry lobby group
Uefa Euro 2024 football tournament, the Network of European Railways
with a five-month blockade of one of (NEE), current plans require DB
Germany’s busiest rail corridors, the InfraGO to raise €6.7bn in track access
78km Riedbahn linking Frankfurt am charges in 2025, rising to €8.1bn in 2026,
Main with Mannheim. The €1.3bn with further increases planned in future
project involves laying 117km of track, years. NEE places the blame on the
renewal of 150 switches, installation of method used by the government to
more than 15km of noise barriers and increase funding for rail infrastructure
the replacement of 140km of overhead investment, providing DB with new
contact wire. At the same time, the capital injections. While NEE welcomes
entire control and safety technology the additional money, the fact it bears
will be renewed. DB InfraGO teams will interest at a current rate of 5.9% means
“
have to move a total of 239,000 sleepers every capital increase adds to the
and almost 380,000 tonnes of ballast. amount of profit the supposedly “not
DB InfraGO reckons that the quantity of for profit” DB InfraGO has to make
work carried out will be four times simply to finance its new funding. In
greater than was possible under the late June the DB Group received a
previous policy of partial line closures. capital injection of €3.02bn from the
At the same time, 20 stations on the government, all assigned to increased
Riedbahn will be transformed, with infrastructure funding via DB InfraGO.
modern passenger information and new The government has opted for this
Adapted to
wayfinding systems, brightly-lit funding mechanism as national policy.
underpasses, new lighting and Limiting overall government debt
future
modernised platform roofs. In addition, means it cannot simply borrow to fund
some of the stations will receive new rail infrastructure investment. The need
ramps and lifts for step-free access. to cover interest costs, along with
Once the work has been completed, increased depreciation charges and
DB InfraGO says that train punctuality construction and energy cost inflation,
will improve because the renewal of all
outdated systems will reduce
lead NEE to forecast that charges for
freight trains will rise from €2.87/km to challenges
infrastructure-related disruption by €4.83/km in 2026. It describes the
more than 80%. Delays will also be combination of DB InfraGO BNetzA as
avoided thanks to the provision of new a “hungry track access fee monster,” Not only is
passing loops. In addition, the work driving up the cost of access to the rail Vossloh Rolling Stock
will provide greater certainty for future network which in turn will lead
planning as DB expects that no major customers to move freight traffic to setting new industry
infrastructure work will be required on road, the exact opposite of national standards with its
the route for at least five years. policy objectives and DB’s Strong Rail
Next year, similar programmes are strategy.
hybrid locomotive
planned for the Emmerich - Oberhausen “Prices are already a significant Modula, it’s also
and Berlin - Hamburg main lines. burden compared to road transport,” sending a clear signal in
However, passengers on the latter are says Mr Malte Lawrenz, chairman of
already facing months of disruption as the Association of Freight Wagon terms of sustainability.
DB InfraGO says that some maintenance Owners in Germany (VPI). “Fundamentally,
work on the 278km line cannot wait the route pricing system must be
until 2025 and needs to be undertaken reformed as quickly as possible.”
during a total blockade between August There seems little prospect of that at
and December this year. During this present. And so the row over track
time 100 turnouts and around 74km of access charges is likely to rumble on,
track will be replaced. not least because while DB InfraGO was
set up as a public limited company
orientated to serve the public good, it
Track access simultaneously has a remit to operate
If the closure of major sections of the the railway infrastructure as a 24-27 Sep 2024
network wasn’t controversial enough, commercial enterprise. With increased Booth O/330
DB InfraGO is also in the middle of a government funding for rail
battle over the level of the track access infrastructure more and more difficult
charges that it sets according to a to obtain, media coverage worsening
transparent system overseen by the over the policy of complete line Sustainability in motion
Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) and closures, and a general election in
which provide the majority of its income. Germany likely next September, the vl-rs.com
DB’s 2024 interim report shows that newly-formed DB InfraGO is facing an
track access charges accounted for €3bn increasingly bumpy ride. IRJ
Advertorial
Sustainable finance is encouraging modal shift

In an interview with IRJ editor-in-chief, Kevin Smith, KfW IPEX-Bank’s Sebastian Blum explains the
varying role that KfW IPEX-Bank is playing in supporting the decarbonisation of railway transport
and modal shift to rail.
KS: When it comes to opportunities for sustainable Consequently, respective collateral structures are
finance in the rail sector, what support is out there? And needed for cross-border transport. Wider recognition and
how might different organisations obtain it? adoption of the Luxembourg Protocol would support the
SB: We see various kinds of support on different levels. harmonisation of the perfection of securities, reducing
Worldwide there is a substantial move to contribute to net costs and supporting the financing of international rolling
zero through the development of net zero emission stock projects. Thanks to the efforts of the Rail Working
transport systems. In the European Union (EU), companies Group, of which we are a member, there is progress with
have intensified their contribution to achieving the EU’s the Protocol, which came into force earlier this year
Green Deal by pursuing modal shift and encouraging initially in Gabon, Luxembourg, Spain and Sweden along
greater use of rail as well as embracing new transitional with the EU, in respect of competences. Further adoption
technologies such as hydrogen-powered rolling stock. is encouraged.
We are seeing a growing number of businesses across KS: Where do you see the biggest opportunities and in
the rail industry focusing on increased environmental what types of projects? Previous articles have talked
sustainability, which is also opening new doors to raising about the hydrogen trains for Heidekrautbahn. Are there
finance. Furthermore, we note that many investors are other examples worth highlighting? Also, you’re a
attempting to ensure that their entire value chain, European bank, but have talked about working on
including financing, is green, which offers additional projects further afield, such as Africa. Can you explain
opportunities in this field. the work you are doing here?
Within our bank, we have strengthened our capacities
SB: The biggest opportunities are in transformational
to offer green loans or sustainability-linked loans, including
projects that encourage a reduction of CO2 emissions as
related advisory services. In-house green loan experts
well as help to develop society and offer improved
support our internal sectoral expert divisions and provide
economic value. For example, transitioning away from
additional advisory services to clients. The service includes
diesel to electric traction through the adoption of
accompanying clients in their implementation of green or
hydrogen and battery fleets on regional lines, extensions
sustainable finance frameworks, including providing support
of high-speed lines, and improving rail infrastructure in
until they secure second party opinions or verifications.
developing countries, are all areas we are targeting.
This supports offered by the Sustainable Finance Advisory
As a German transformational bank, we support various
to encourage more green, sustainable frameworks and
markets, not only in Germany, but also in other European
sustainable lending is helping to align our clients’
countries and worldwide.
sustainable strategies with sustainable financing facilities.
As you have already mentioned, one example in
Furthermore, sustainable rating agencies are helping to
Germany is the transformational Heidekrautbahn project.
identify the material challenges for clients posed by ESG
Seven hydrogen trains will enter service in December
Ratings. These challenging ESG issues could be the focus
2024. Another example is Cologne S-Bahn, where we are
of Sustainability Linked Loans, which are connected to
supporting the modernisation of local rail passenger
sustainable KPIs. These work in accordance with
transport in the Rhineland with an investment of around
ambitious Sustainable Performance Targets (SPTs) to offer
€400m. Cooperation and deals with locomotive leasing
set pathways to a more sustainable future with a positive
companies like Railpool and Alpha Trains are other
societal impact and economic outcome.
important projects to highlight.
I should also mention that there is another form of
With respect to the African market, we are promoting
support available for export finance of green projects,
the construction of the new Standard Gauge Railway
which include electrified railway infrastructure and electric
network (SGR) in Tanzania. The main aim of the SGR is to
rolling stock. Due to the modernisation of the OECD
alleviate road traffic congestion, carry freight and
consensus, these kinds of projects are benefiting from
passengers safely and faster, reduce CO2 emissions and to
better conditions, including longer tenures of up to 22
increase social and economic value in the country.
years, plus delivery and construction periods. This type of
Elsewhere in Africa, we endorse the development of the
support is not limited to projects in the developing world,
high-speed network in Egypt.
but is also available for projects in developed countries.
In addition, modernisation of existing transport
KS: What challenges does securing railway finance infrastructure is an important part of the green
entail? What specific bureaucratic/legislative hoops transformation. Norwegian infrastructure manager Bane
does the sector have to jump through? How might you NOR is an excellent example for increasing investment in
help the sector to overcome these? this regard. Through a green loan valued at approximately
SB: Cross-border railway network harmonisation remains NOK 1,140 million (€100m), we’re helping to finance
Source: Verkehrsverbund Mittelsachsen
limited in Europe. Rolling stock still has to meet the green projects to improve railway infrastructure,
technical requirements of each individual network, which maintenance depots and train stabling facilities across the
makes it more expensive and redeployment more difficult. country.
In addition, every jurisdiction has its own requirements. Outside of rail, another example of our global presence
For example, in Germany every public transport authority is support for procurement of electric buses. We are
has a different model for organising, operating and financing the decarbonisation of transport in Australia and
financing public transport operating contracts, adding to New Zealand by Kelsian and Kinetic, operators of electric
the complication. buses and respective EV-charging infrastructure.
Feature | subject
Shape the future.

With a strong financing partner.
We support all those investing in the future of mobility.
For private companies and the public sector: we work with you to develop solutions that meet your particular
needs. We offer you know-how and experience gained from current projects in your industry all over the
world. Together with you, we can shape the future – with long-term and individually structured financing.
Source: Verkehrsverbund Mittelsachsen
Because the future belongs to those who think ahead. Let’s shape it together.
IRJ XXXX 2024 21

Innovative trains | alternative traction
Stadler relaunches the RegioShuttle for the green transition

Powered by batteries or hydrogen, the RS Zero, the successor to the Regio-Shuttle, has been developed by
Stadler Rail to meet demand for emission-free rolling stock to decarbonise regional and local passenger
operations, as executive vice-president of sales and marketing, Ansgar Brockmeyer, explains to Robert Preston.
I
NNOTRANS in Berlin this year will with all current norms and TSI sections and for them the battery
be marked by the world premiere of standards, while also offering emission- version of the RS Zero could be ideal.”
the RS Zero, as Stadler unveils the free traction,” he says. Development of hydrogen
prototype of its new zero-emission train “Technically, it’s a completely new production, transport and refuelling
for regional and local passenger train,” says Brockmeyer, pointing to the infrastructure is still at an early stage in
services. Available as a single railcar or new bodyshell of the RS Zero, as well as the Regio-Shuttle’s target market of
a two-car multiple-unit in battery and its bogies, drive system, interior design, Germany, but Stadler believes that the
hydrogen-powered versions, the new doors and air-conditioning system that market for hydrogen-powered trains
design is intended as the successor to uses a refrigerant with low global will grow as other regions follow the
the diesel-powered Regio-Shuttle RS1, warming potential (GWP). “Everything pioneers such as Hesse and Lower
first built in 1996. is new,” he says. “What we have Saxony. “However, hydrogen drives are
“The Regio-Shuttle has saved many adopted is the extremely successful generally better suited to networks with
branch lines from closure and there are vehicle concept and in particular the a low level of electrification,”
still around 500 in operation in arrangement of the drive units in front Brockmeyer points out, citing Denmark
Germany and neighbouring countries,” of the bogie under the driver’s cab. This and Hungary as examples.
says Dr Ansgar Brockmeyer, executive means we can continue to provide The battery and hydrogen versions of
vice-president of marketing and sales at passengers with the longest low-floor the RS Zero share many technical
Stadler Rail. Since the first Regio- area between the bogies.” characteristics (see table), including an
Shuttles were first delivered, technical axleload of less than 18 tonnes, which
standards have constantly evolved, he makes the RS Zero suitable for secondary
notes, while at the same time the need
Customer requirements lines with less robust track. Lightweight
has grown to decarbonise the operation Stadler points out that 38% of lines in construction, coupled with a maximum
of rolling stock, a capital asset with a Germany are at present unelectrified, a power output of 600kW at the wheel for
long working life. “There was therefore figure that rises to 43% across Europe as the single-car variant and 1200kW for
a specific demand for a product to whole. At the same time, government the two-car train, gives a maximum
succeed the Regio-Shuttle that complies initiatives to combat climate change are starting acceleration of 0.95m/s² and a
predicated on a significant shift of maximum speed of 120km/h. Each RS
RS Zero vital statistics passenger traffic from road to rail. Zero car has a 1A-A1 wheel arrangement.
“We have customers with very different Traction batteries, or two 200kW
Height of low-floor section 1190mm
operating conditions,” Brockmeyer says, hydrogen power packs, and three in the
Door entrance width 1300mm
some having no electrification at all or two-car RS, ensure a quieter operating
Car width 2820mm
not operating into larger stations where environment that is completely
Car height 4275mm
battery-powered trains could be emission-free. The BEMU version of the
Bogie wheelbase 1900mm
recharged using the overhead supply. RS Zero is also equipped with regenerative
Wheel diameter when new 760mm
Others operate across national borders, braking, while the hydrogen version of
Maximum output at wheel 600kW
requiring trains to take traction current the prototype train offers an impressive
Starting tractive effort (one- 70kN
at different voltages. “We have range of approximately 850km on a
car train)
developed the hydrogen solution for single tank of fuel, according to Stadler.
Maximum starting acceleration 0.95m/s2
these customers,” he says. “Other The BEMU also takes traction current
Maximum speed 120km/h
customers regularly reach electrified from the overhead supply at the German
standard of 15kV 16.7Hz ac, but traction privacy, and an office compartment for electrified and the RS Zero will be able
systems for 25kV 50Hz ac, 1.5kV dc and on-train staff. There are also dedicated to contribute.”
3kV dc are available as options. wheelchair spaces. Brockmeyer reports keen customer
The single-car RS Zero is 27.4m long “The RS1 has already saved countless interest in the RS Zero already, and
over its couplers, and if fitted with a toilet branch lines from closure because it has expects significant sales in the medium
has a total of 67 seats. The two-car variant made attractive and economical term, similar to those achieved by its
has 150 seats and is 53.14m long. Stadler transport possible in low traffic density predecessor the RS1. “The prototype
says the interior layout can be tailored areas,” Brockmeyer says. He points out will go on trial runs after InnoTrans,”
to meet the customer’s requirements, that around 20,000km of lines have been he says. “As we are entering new
with options including multi-purpose closed in Germany in the last 30 years, technical territory with many aspects of
areas for bicycles, pushchairs and bulky and if modal shift and climate change the RS Zero, we cannot yet estimate the
luggage, lounge and comfort zones with targets are to be met, some will need to exact time required for final approval,
standard and individual seats for more be reopened. “None of these lines are but we are aiming for 2025.” IRJ
InnoTrans 2024
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Innovative trains | freight
Ermewa hopes innovative pallet wagon will boost modal shift

An innovative freight wagon developed by Ermewa is the centrepiece of a new logistics concept that promises
to improve the transport of palletised freight by rail. Managing director, Peter Reinshagen, reveals details of
the project exclusively to Kevin Smith.
Ermewa offered prospective users a sneak peak of its demonstrator wagon during an event at its Orval plant in France this summer. Photos: Ermewa
R
AIL freight has traditionally been Intermodal is the obvious target. Peter Reinshagen, managing director of
highly competitive in the While rail already carries 40% of European wagon leasing company
transport of bulk products such Europe’s maritime containers, it Ermewa, part of Streem (see panel),
as coal, steel, oil, grain and aggregates. accounts for just 1% of the trailer market, points out, there has been next to no
Greater capacity and the capability to which makes up 55% of all freight innovation in rail freight wagon design
carry heavier loads works in rail’s favour. transported in Europe. Road is the pre- to suit this market segment, which is
Unfortunately, its ability to grow this eminent mode of transport for lighter hindering rail freight performance.
market initially appears limited, freight comprising products packaged “You have the H-type [covered]
particularly with the use of coal and oil on pallets. Intriguingly, it is a market wagon, which with fixed panels,
in decline. Yet with the European Union segment that is continuing to grow. constrains the shipper,” Reinshagen
(EU) determined to shift long-distance To improve the competitiveness and says. “You also have the R-type with a
freight off the continent’s roads - targets the attractiveness of using trains rather tarpaulin. There has been no innovation
include increasing rail freight’s modal than lorries to move palletised freight, in that wagon for 40 years.”
share to 30% by 2030 from 17% in 2020 - rail logistics need to be simpler. This Sensing an opportunity, teams at
the sector is under pressure to increase goes right down to the type of wagon Ermewa set out to identify what
volumes. available to carry the freight. As Mr changes might be possible and to define
Photo: Ermewa
Limited innovation in existing R-type tarpaulin wagon design has restricted rail’s abillity to compete with road when carrying palletised freight.

and design a wagon that is optimised needs and what are your problems and of the loading process. Operation of the
for the transport of pallets. Reinshagen grievances with this type of transport, tarpaulin is controlled remotely, by either
says this process began in 2019 and and what would be a good solution for the forklift driver or someone further
initially involved asking Ermewa’s the future?” he says. afield, eliminating time-consuming
customers what they would want in a “What we then did was to define a manual opening and closing.
new wagon type and what would new wagon with an automated “Everything is automatic, everything is
convince them to use rail over road. tarpaulin mechanism.” digitally controlled,” Reinshagen says.
Ermewa focused this market research In this new design, each side of the Crucially, the loading process is two
on the French bottled mineral water wagon is independent, meaning that a minutes faster per wagon. “This equates
forklift truck operator can focus on to a time saving of more than an hour
“
loading one open side, before moving per train,” Reinshagen says.
onto the next, improving the efficiency Power for the automated system is
What we then did was
to define a new wagon About Streem
S
with an automated TREEM was introduced as the new brand and identity of Ermewa Group in
tarpaulin mechanism. 2023 to offer a greater distinction between its various subsidiaries. The
company is a former subsidiary of French National Railways (SNCF) and
Peter Reinshagen was purchased by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) and German
asset manager DWS Group for €3.2bn in October 2021.
Ermewa, the wagon leasing business, owns Europe’s second-largest fleet of
45,000 wagons, which consists of 120 different types.
customers of its freight forwarding The Inveho maintenance and new-build division operates from five workshops
client, ID Logistics. It supplies all of the in France and three in Germany, providing maintenance and repairs, wheelset
wagons used to move the majority of maintenance, wagon refurbishment and manufacturing.
their products by rail from bottling Eurotainer is the world’s leading tank container leasing company, with a fleet of
plants in France. The youngest of these around 80,000 of more than 50 types.
wagons are 40 years old, according to Raffles Lease offers tank container leasing for operators and transport
Reinshagen, with the oldest nearing 50. companies, while Demi offers maintenance and repair, storage, and testing of tank
“We went to see our customers and containers at depots in Rotterdam and Houston.
asked the people working along the Inveho will exhibit at InnoTrans in Hall 3.2, stand 270.
entire logistics chain, what are your
FIT locomotives. FIT wagons. FIT trains.
VIT keeps
your railway
vehicles FIT.
Preventive and corrective maintenance

Modiﬁcation and renewal
[email protected]
Wheelsets and components www.sz-vit.si

Innovative trains | freight
sourced through an axle generator, wagons to create a single unit and to year’s Transport and Logistics Fair in
which feeds a battery installed on the reduce the space occupied by buffers Munich. Development of a wagon
wagon and enables the tarpaulin to and conventional couplings. The suitable for the British loading gauge is
open and close when the wagon is interior space has been optimised in also planned. However, Reinshagen
stationary. The system has been terms of height and the positioning of says the idea is not to limit production
designed to allow connection to a shore the tarpaulin, to remove any obstruction to Inveho, with licensing opportunities
power supply if the battery is depleted. by the structure and connecting bar. As also available if there is demand.
The wagon has provision for future a result, a single twin-unit wagon has “The more this wagon is used, the
installation of the Digital Automatic capacity for 56 standard Euro Pallets, an better for the entire system,”
Coupler (DAC), enabling the required increase of 10% in a 650m-long train Reinshagen says. “I have talked with
power to be drawn from the compared with two conventional potential competitors to see if they are
locomotive. wagons. interested. The idea is not to close the
Onboard the new wagon, future market. On the contrary, we want to
customers will have the option to install
a variety of sensors to meet their need Demonstrator
“
to monitor the temperature of their A demonstrator of the new wagon
freights, to detect possible intruders, or design, which has yet to be named, was
free capacity, which is useful if the train presented in July to various clients of The idea is that the
stops to collect more pallets mid- Ermewa’s freight forwarding
journey. There is also provision for the customers. train is a neutral
installation of a barcode-based tracking “The feedback from those customers proposal managed by a
system, which will link pallets to was enthusiastic,” Reinshagen says.
specific wagons, improving the “This will allow us to develop the neutral actor that can
traceability of freight, and potentially design of the wagon for a first batch of be shared by freight
standardising this form of freight 2000 units.”
tracking. The tarpaulin itself is Ermewa and its project partners have forwarders.
reinforced to prevent it being cut open. requested funding from the French
Each wagon rides on two single axles government to support the cost of
rather than bogies and is equipped with developing a prototype, production of
a compact braking system, removing which will take place at sister company
the need for brake piping. A bar Inveho’s plant in Orval, central France. create an open system that facilitates
coupling is used between a pair of The prototype will be shown at next the development of freight flows.”
Indeed, while well suited to the needs
of its existing customers, Reinshagen
says introduction of the new wagon
forms part of a larger strategy to pursue
market share from groupage transport,
which is currently entirely road-focused.
Groupage typically sees drivers of
7.5-tonne lorries collect consignments of
pallets from various customers,
transporting them to a cross-dock
where they are sorted according to
destination, and loaded onto articulated
lorries for long-distance transport to
another cross-dock. Here the freight is
unloaded, sorted and then transported
to the end customer, again using 7.5-
tonne lorries.
“The idea is that with this new wagon
we can replace the long-haul transport
between the cross-docks,” Reinshagen says.
Development of the rail-based
concept is in its early stages, but
Reinshagen says it will require the
identification of two cross-docks that
are connected to the electrified rail
network and are close to two major
consumption centres. Electric 7.5-tonne
lorries will be used for first and last
mile transport, providing entirely
electric transport.
Photo: DB/Georg Wagner The cost per pallet of using this new
Reinshagen believes the new wagon will improve the viability of moving pallets by rail. form of logistics is expected to be

significantly cheaper than a journey transport, with pallets transported infrastructure shortcomings impacting
wholly by road due to the potential to alongside items such as cars and rail freight’s general viability.
carry freight in both directions, which containers in a single train, marshalled Reinshagen says the economic value of
compares with traditional rail freight at a multifunctional logistics hub. This the concept becomes apparent on trains
which tends to be point-to-point. would also make the concept eligible of 650m and above. Yet freight traffic is
Reinshagen’s colleague, Streem CEO, for European subsidy to develop often constrained on some routes by
Mr David Zindo, also refers to studies terminals, as established in the latest passing loop lengths of just 550m.
by the European Commission showing proposed revision to the EU’s “Instead of renovating the entire
the comparative cost of electric rail at Combined Transport Directive. It could network, it would be better to extend
€0.011 per tonne-km when external also be highly attractive to large freight this passing track by 50-100m,”
factors such as pollution, safety and forwarding companies, which Reinshagen Reinshagen says. “All of a sudden you
CO₂ emissions are taken into account says are largely absent from the will have 15-20% more capacity on each
compared with €0.042 for a heavy European rail freight market at present. train.” There is also the issue of limited
goods vehicle. “I think we are already “The idea is that the train is a neutral coordination of infrastructure managers
economically competitive, but there is proposal managed by a neutral actor across borders when scheduling work
also an additional benefit to the that can be shared by freight and related line closures, which Zindo
community,” Zindo says. forwarders,” he says. says is especially problematic for freight
The challenge for Ermewa now is As Europe continues to grapple with trains. “More than 50% of the trains are
securing sufficient volumes. Reinshagen its freight decarbonisation challenge, crossing at least one border,” he says.
points out that currently around 30-50 the concept is a welcome development. Proposals within the EU Green
lorries travel between Paris and It is a potentially viable and competitive Transport Package announced last year
Marseille per day in various groupage option for transporting more of attempt to address these issues.
transport networks, including the postal Europe’s freight. And it isn’t dependent Progress has been predictably
service. “You would need almost the on government intervention. “You are ponderous. However, the potential of
entire volume transported every day to go doing this not because of some political Ermewa’s new wagon to secure a
on the train to fill it up,” Reinshagen says. pressure or CO₂ tax, but because you greater share of the freight pie for rail
To increase viability, Ermewa are getting a solution that really suits might yet prove an important catalyst
envisages groupage transport of pallets your needs,” Reinshagen says. as the freight industry lobbies for
becoming part of combined freight It is also likely to shine a light on the support. IRJ
Renfe,
global transport operator.
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Innovative trains | decarbonisation
New fleet primed to decarbonise Dublin

Irish Rail’s (IÉ) ambitious plans to modernise commuter rail in the Greater Dublin area rest in part on new
electric and hybrid trains. Piers Wood, managing director for Ireland at Alstom, explains how the new fleet
marks a step-change from the rolling stock that has gone before.
D
ART+ is the transformative types and the concept of hybrid trains prioritise independent access, and offer
programme that places train has allowed for expansion of the Dart the potential for unassisted level access
travel at the heart of Ireland’s network without the costly investment from suitable platforms when accompanied
sustainable transport network. Funded in electrification infrastructure throughout. by platform enhancements. Dedicated
under the National Development Plan In 2021, IÉ agreed a 10-year framework wheelchair spaces, larger than previously
by the National Transport Authority, agreement with Alstom for up to 750 provided, allow easy access from
Dart+ is a €1.75bn investment that will new commuter coaches. So far it has adjacent doors.
double the capacity and treble the placed firm orders for 37 five-car Other features include dedicated cycle
electrification of the Greater Dublin X’trapolis trains comprising six EMUs and family areas, and an advanced CCTV
network, serving Ireland’s most and 31 BEMUs, plus a 15-year support system throughout the train. Wide
populous suburban area, when it opens services contract, worth a total of €449m. gangways between carriages facilitate
in phases from 2028 onwards. The overall order will potentially equip ease of movement, creating a more open
The Dart+ programme will involve the entire Greater Dublin Area rail fleet and connected interior, along with a
infrastructure improvements along four and up to 80% of all heavy rail journeys greater feeling of security for passengers.
key corridors (IRJ February, p29) in Ireland for an emissions-free future.
radiating from central Dublin’s original Each 82m-long X’trapolis train has
Dart electric network that went live in capacity for up to 545 passengers, and Manufacture
1984. Despite regular discussions about comes with a low-level floor and an The 31 BEMUs currently being
extending the 1.5kV dc overhead line automatic retractable step. One of the manufactured at Alstom’s Chorzów
electrification, the network has remained primary objectives of the design of the facility near Katowice in Poland, along
largely unchanged for four decades. Dart+ fleet is to improve accessibility with the six EMUs, are a first for Ireland.
The advent of alternative traction for passengers. As a result, the new cars The Polish factory is one of Alstom’s
largest rolling stock manufacturing
sites, employing more than 2400 people,
working on approximately 15 projects
for nine countries. As well as the trains
themselves, Alstom is providing
predictive maintenance systems and
three simulators for driver training as
part of its support services contract.
The 31 BEMUs will have a range of
more than 80km away from the electrified
Dart network under battery power,
allowing IÉ to retire older diesel rolling
stock from these non-electrified lines.
Each BEMU driving car is equipped
with four battery packs, providing eight
battery packs per train. The 105kWh
lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide
(LNMC) batteries are made up of two
strings, with each string composed of
three modules. The modules consist of a
number of individual cells that provide
the power to the battery pack. A single
battery pack contains 460 cells.
The first five-car train is due to be
shipped to Dublin this autumn. The
subsequent testing programme is based
on using two pre-series trains to
complete the regulatory type testing
requirements of the European Union
Agency for Railways (ERA). Once this
has been obtained, which will take a
Photo: Alstom
minimum of 12 months, subsequent

series trains will go through a much
shorter testing period.
The first five-car train will be shipped from Alstom’s Polish plant at Chorzów to Ireland this autumn. The first phase is static testing,
whereby the train undergoes a series of
functional tests at IÉ’s Inchicore hours per night, depending on whether infrastructure for the Dart+ network,
workshops in Dublin during a two- the track is electrified or not. which will be used to charge the new
month period. This is to ensure all the During the dynamic testing phase, trains in advance of planned
functional aspects of the train are which will take approximately seven electrification of the line between
correctly working, especially after the months to complete, all aspects of the Malahide and Drogheda on the Dublin -
shipping process. These tests are in train are tested at different operating Belfast main line.
addition to an extensive set of static tests speeds, including when coupled with The fast-charging infrastructure,
undertaken at the factory in Poland. another train, as well as testing of the situated on two platforms and one
Due to Ireland’s 1600mm track gauge, battery charging equipment. Once all siding at Drogheda MacBride station, is
dynamic testing will be done on the the tests have been completed and the currently being installed, ahead of
Irish network. The time available for paperwork has been prepared, a testing and commissioning that is due
this ranges from four to six-and-a-half submission will be made to ERA to to take place next year. Civils work will
request type approval for the train. This also take place along Marsh Road to
“
regulatory approval process takes up to install and connect a substation that will
six months to complete. convert electricity to the voltage
The fast-charging During this time trains cannot be suitable for charging the trains during
used for passenger service and instead service turnaround.
infrastructure, situated will be used for operational training The substation will be equipped with
on two platforms and mileage accumulation. Once type an energy storage element which
approval has been granted by ERA, the enables integration with the Electricity
and one siding at trains can enter into passenger service. Supply Board (ESB) network and
Alstom will deliver new trains enhances availability of the charging
Drogheda MacBride throughout the regulatory approval system. It will provide controlled
process, so that a base fleet will be current to trains stabled in the
station, is currently located in Dublin, ready for when type platforms at Drogheda station through
approval is granted. The subsequent a rigid catenary system positioned
being installed. series trains will be delivered at the rate above the train pantographs. Energy
of two per month. stored in the battery system will also be
Alstom is providing fast-charging replenished by regenerative braking. IRJ
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Innovative trains | Japan
New features for established high-speed train platform

The N700S is the 2020s iteration of a successful high-speed train design. JR Central has confirmed a new
order for the trains and is set to introduce several innovative features, as Mark Simmons explains.
L
AST month Central Japan Railway as possible in the event of an emergency include diagnostic and labour-saving
(JR Central) announced that it will or earthquake functions, environmental impact reduction
increase its N700S Tokaido • inclusion of lithium-ion traction measures and in-car improvements.
Shinkansen fleet operating on the batteries, so that in the case of overhead A total of 10 trains across the whole
Tokyo - Shin Osaka high-speed line by power interruption the train can be fleet of 76 sets will be fitted with
17 trains. The new 16-car trains, moved at low speed under its own onboard track and/or catenary and
manufactured by Hitachi and Nippon power to the next station and allow pantograph inspection equipment; eight
Sharyo, will be introduced in 2026-2028, continued operation of some electrical with the former and five with the latter.
with four entering service in 2026, seven functions including toilets This new technology is expected to
in 2027 and six in 2028. When all 17 • introduction of active suspension, improve safety and efficiency, and
trains have been delivered, the JR specially developed for green (first allow the withdrawal of JR Central’s
Central N700S fleet will total 76 trains. class) cars, and seven-car dedicated inspection train,
Development of the N700S platform • enhanced onboard facilities for known as Dr Yellow, in January 2025.
began with the construction of a prototype passengers, including greater (lockable) The use of automated inspection
train in 2016. This was a development luggage storage space, a new seat equipment on service trains will also
of the successful 700 series design that design and more space in green cars, replace some manual track and catenary
first entered service in 1999. A total of and ac power sockets at all seats. inspection, enabling a reduction of the
91 sets were ordered by JR Central and JR Central originally ordered 40 labour force in this area.
JR West, and all of JR Central’s sets N700S trains, and is currently taking All new trains will feature improved
were replaced by a first batch of N700S delivery of a second batch of 19 sets it real-time transmission of vehicle condition
trains in 2020. ordered in 2022 for Yen 114bn ($US 897m). data that will enable faster fault diagnosis
The S in the class designation is short Three other operators have so far ordered and more efficient maintenance
for Supreme, as the new platform variants. JR Kyushu started operation of scheduling. Some cars in all trains will
incorporates a number of novel design four six-car trains in 2022, while JR West also feature a labour-saving device that
features and technological introduced three 16-car sets in 2021. will automatically swing out banks of
improvements, including: In 2023, Taiwan High Speed Rail seats when maintenance is required.
• a higher technical maximum speed of announced the purchase of 12 trains, all Environmental impact reduction
362km/h, up from 334km/h for the 700 12 cars in length. measures include increasing the amount
series trains (although maximum Plans for the new Texas Central service of recycled aluminium in car bodyshells
permitted speed on the Tokaido line is between Houston and Dallas in the by 1.6 times compared with existing
285km/h to avoid noise pollution) United States include ordering a fleet of trains. While recycled aluminium was
• optimisation of underfloor equipment eight-car N700S trains. Funding for the previously confined to the roof, it will
layout to a standard design, to easily 379km line has still to be secured. now also be incorporated into the side
allow production of 12, eight and six- panels of bodyshells.
car variants of the standard 16-car The new trains will also be fitted with
formation and incorporation of a world- Latest innovations onboard equipment to automatically
first silicon carbide device-based The third and latest batch of N700S maintain the correct supply voltage,
traction system trains ordered by JR Central this year replacing some lineside substation
• improved automatic train control include several new features that will functions such as power compensation.
(ATC) and braking systems, designed to be fitted from new to some trains and When the onboard equipment has been
slow or bring the train to halt as quickly retrofitted to some existing sets. These fitted to all Tokaido Shinkansen sets,
JR Central expects a reduction in CO₂
emissions of around 10,000 tonnes a year.
Other improvements on the latest batch
of N700S trains include a new function
that allows existing onboard lithium-ion
batteries to power the HVAC system, at
a reduced level, when power is
unavailable from the overhead supply.
This will provide a much-improved
environment for passengers in the event
of a breakdown or power failure.
As announced earlier this year, JR
Central is reintroducing private
compartments and a total of 36 N700S
trains will eventually feature them.
They will appear first in the second
batch of N700S sets and then be
included in the third batch that will be
JR Central has confirmed an order for an additional 17 N700S high-speed trains. Photo: Shutterstock/Tackune delivered from 2026 onwards. IRJ
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IRJ 47
8/12/24 11:06 AM
Innovative trains | light rail
Škoda turns autonomous LRV vision into reality
Projects in Pilsen and Tampere demonstrate the significant progress made by Škoda Group in developing
autonomous operation for LRVs, as Robert Preston discovers.
I
N July, Škoda Group achieved two determined by GNSS and compared of automatic operation in the Smart
major milestones in its long-term against a high-definition map and Depot ecosystem is another step on the
programme to bring automatic train odometry data. During pilot tests on a road to a fully autonomous LRV,”
operation (ATO) to the light rail loop near the University of West Bohemia Liberda says.
environment. The company is working campus, obstacles that were successfully
to develop a fully autonomous LRV detected included a car approaching the
able to operate without a driver at the track from a blind spot and an Vision into reality
controls and detect obstacles in its path emergency vehicle responding to a call, Škoda first unveiled its Smart Depot
and react accordingly. enabling the latter to be given priority. concept in 2023. Thanks to intensive
Škoda says the first demonstration of “We have to be ready to deal with work by its developers, and the
an autonomous LRV is planned on a these situations,” says Mr Jiří Liberda, continuous support of Škoda’s parent,
test track in the city of Pilsen in the digital managing director at Škoda Czech investment company PPF Group,
Czech Republic. This follows three Group. “Our long-term goal is to develop “we were able to turn the vision into
years of what it describes as intensive a fully autonomous LRV, which will not reality in just one year,” Liberda says.
research and testing under the Didymos only increase the efficiency and safety This work will be the subject of a
project funded by the Transport 2020+ of urban transport, but also contribute presentation that Škoda will make at
programme of the Czech Technology to the sustainability of our cities and InnoTrans. But in general terms,
Agency, in cooperation with the enhance passenger comfort.” Liberda sees the obstacles to further
Ministry of Transport. The second milestone reached in July adoption of ATO in the light rail sector
Škoda’s partners in the project include was the successful demonstration of as falling into three main categories.
CEDA Maps, Intens Corporation, the Škoda’s Smart Depot ecosystem in the Firstly, further work will be required
University of West Bohemia in Pilsen city of Tampere in Finland. Here, a to develop technology which has been
and the Czech Technical University in Škoda Smart Artic X34 LRV, as supplied demonstrated so far in the controlled
Prague, but the heart of the new system to Tampere Tramways (TR), operated environment of the depot, where it has
is the company’s own ACS anti- within the depot in autonomous mode the potential to reduce operating costs
collision system developed specifically without a driver onboard. Under the and improve safety. Significant further
for LRVs, and installed in this case in a supervision of the depot control centre, development will be needed if
Škoda 40T LRV. the LRV was able to detect and react to autonomous operation is to be adopted
Obstacles within 100m of the vehicle obstacles on the track including depot on light rail networks running on-street
are detected using an HD camera and a staff, obey signals and enter the vehicle in busy city centres, where there are
Lidar sensor, with the LRV’s position washing plant. “Successful demonstration many more hazards to contend with in

what Liberda sees as the most difficult In the meantime, Škoda is installing its Other innovations that Škoda will
and complex stage of system automation. ACS technology on its own LRVs as well introduce on the new LRV for Prague
“The technology is not ready for that,” as third-party products. It is also offering include an electro-mechanical system
Liberda says. “AI needs to learn all the driver advisory technology to help for parking and emergency braking.
situations the vehicle will face, those enforce speed limits, optimise headways This requires neither oil nor air to
unexpected and dangerous situations and reduce energy consumption. transmit braking force, simplifying
with destructive consequences.” Liberda points to the new fleet of LRVs maintenance and reducing operating
A more difficult issue is the lack of a that Škoda is manufacturing for Kassel costs. Mr Laurent Fromont, senior vice-
legal framework in Europe to prove in Germany that will be fitted with an president of rolling stock and service
that autonomous LRVs are safe and intelligent speed limiter (ISL) that platforms at Škoda Group, also
prevents the driver from accelerating highlights the use of more
out of a curve too quickly, removing the environmentally-friendly R290 propane
risk of the last car derailing as the LRV as the refrigerant for the air-
“
gathers speed. conditioning system. “This is one of the
Recent production at Škoda also first applications in an LRV,” he says.
includes 80 LRVs for Rhine-Neckar Each 32m-long LRV will have 70
Passenger experience Transport (RNV) in Germany that will seats, and overall passenger capacity is
operate on the network connecting almost 16% greater than the Škoda 15T
is key for us and we Mannheim, Heidelberg and Ludwigshafen. design last delivered to Prague five
put a great deal of At 60m, 12 of the new ForCity Smart years ago. “Passenger experience is key
LRVs are the longest in the world, for us and we put a great deal of effort
effort into this. according to the manufacturer. into this,” Fromont says.
Bodyshell production is now underway The new fleet has been designed by
Laurent Fromont for a new fleet of ForCity Plus 52T LRVs an in-house team led by head of
for Prague, with the first vehicle expected industrial design, Mr Tomáš Chludil,
to be completed around the end of this and Fromont is hopeful that it can equal
year. Škoda signed a Koruna 16.6bn the success of their work on the ForCity
($US 720m) framework contract for up Smart LRV for the German city of Bonn,
to 200 LRVs awarded by public which in June was awarded a Red Dot
thus authorised for operation. This is transport operator DPP in December Award for product design.
likely to take some time to resolve, as 2023. It is due to deliver the first batch Among the notable features are
will the third category identified by of 20 by the end of December 2025 and upholstered wooden seats with removeable
Liberda, which he believes will be the a second batch of 20 a year later. The cushions for easy maintenance and long
most difficult to tackle and relates to the new fleet will feature an improved anti- service life, offering passengers on the
ethical considerations raised by collision system, offering more precise SWB network in Bonn what Škoda
automation and the general willingness vehicle positioning and enhanced Lidar describes as a sophisticated travelling
of society at large to accept it. “Perhaps to ensure reliability in poor light conditions. environment, “something we really
we will have to wait for the next “We are ready with the technology for want to have in all our new LRVs,”
generation,” he says. the Prague project,” Liberda says. Fromont says. IRJ
InnoTrans 2024
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www.powerlines-group.com Electrifying. Grounded.
Innovative trains | design
A new model for rail vehicle functional design

Photo: DB AG/Axel Hartmann
Model-based system engineering (MBSE) is a relatively new discipline, which aims to move from a document-
based to a model-based approach. Francesco Angerosa and Salvatore Muoio* explain how the global rail
industry could benefit by adopting this innovative practice in vehicle functional design.
O
VER the past decade, the However, it is important to stress that programming language. The formality
railway industry has undergone the potential benefits are contingent inherent in programming languages,
substantial evolution. The upon judicious and discerning with their rigid syntax and structured
proliferation of components necessary application. We believe that the true protocols, is not necessary for the
for projects has surged, leading to a efficacy of the method is dependent effective application of MBSE.
proportional increase in interfaces and upon a series of nuanced considerations We believe that a core advantage of
functions. This heightened complexity that extend beyond its mere application. MBSE is its capacity to distil complexity,
has resulted in a corresponding rise in First and foremost, the method’s enhance clarity, and facilitate a seamless
the array of features provided by diverse efficacy hinges on the prudent and transition from initial concept to
systems, along with their associated measured use of the accompanying tangible design representation. In the
variations. Furthermore, there is an representations. Indeed, while these rest of this article, we outline the key
escalating demand to integrate vehicle representations are designed to stages of the MBSE process.
equipment that historically did not form augment and facilitate the design
part of the standard configuration. development process, an excessive
There is likewise a growing expectation reliance on them may inadvertently lead First steps
from customers for enhanced quality to over-structuring, potentially impinging Before modelling commences it is
and greater attention to detail. Customers’ on the very clarity the method seeks to necessary to consider the level of
demands for functionalities also surpass achieve. investment required for the project, as
those of the past. But this surge is not Moreover, a critical consideration in well as the key requirements and
consistently accompanied by a the successful implementation of MBSE definitions. The creation of the first
commensurate improvement in revolves around the software chosen. It model (pilot project) places demands
understanding, leading to significant should be tailored to enhance the clarity both on the time and financial resources
ambiguity, and potentially significant and precision of design representation, available, and it is imperative for both
project delays, design mistakes and cost avoiding the introduction of extraneous engineers and managers to
overruns. elements, such as internal variables, that acknowledge this reality.
The limitations of the paper-based may inadvertently sever the link between All the benefits derived from the
documentation approach used for the the model and its real-world counterpart. implementation of MBSE are only likely
creation of design documents are a A judicious choice of software not only to be realised if the model structure is
contributory factor to these problems. amplifies the advantages of the method, properly designed and accepted by the
A potential solution is the use of but also preserves the fluidity and different stakeholders. This is especially
model-based system engineering (MBSE) relevance of the model to the tangible true for aspects like reuse and
to streamline and articulate the design reality it seeks to represent. It is crucial variability management, which become
development process, providing a to highlight that while the inclusion of applicable only when the foundational
means to enhance clarity and diminish software can be a valuable asset, it element is comprehensively understood
ambiguity inherent in complex projects. should not transform the method into a and embraced. An initial investment in

terms of both finance and time is to be in its final form. Once complete • rescue vehicle: vehicle used only to
indispensable to fully leverage the and accepted by all stakeholders, the rescue other vehicles, no electrical
advantages of the methodology. modelling process can commence. The coupling foreseen. Hence, only
The model should not be thought of above steps are mandatory pre-activities mechanical coupling will be required.
as an independent entity, disconnected which must be completed before The consolidated list of actors is the
from its end use, and should instead be modelling starts. first element of the model. After the
based on what the participating actors have been identified, interaction
stakeholders require. The initial focal between actors and use cases should be
point for solidifying design activities is Operational layer identified. A use case is an intended
the consolidation of requirements. For modelling the operational layer train functionality executed by an
Frequently, there is a tendency to (operational analysis), the requirements identified actor.
commence specification without fully allocated at the operational level need In the context of functional vehicle
identifying the sources of requirements. to be considered. We believe that the design, we believe that there is a direct
This can result in rework, consequently first step to be performed is the correspondence between use cases and
incurring additional costs. In the realm identification of the external interfaces functional breakdown structures (FBS).
of MBSE the scale of rework activities is which, according to the requirements, In the following example, each can be
notably larger. In cases where a precise are expected to interact with the train. considered a use case and a vehicle
set of requirements is not adequately In the rail environment, these external function:
established, the modelling impact interfaces or actors can be: • demand traction in manual mode -
becomes excessively time-consuming. • a human being (such as driver or normal operation,
In parallel to the identification of maintenance engineer), or • demand traction in manual mode -
source requirements, a consolidated • equipment which interacts with the degraded operation,
functional breakdown structure (FBS) train (such as signalling or GPS). • demand traction in manual mode -
should be produced and agreed within The list of actors must not be arbitrary, emergency operation, and
the project. The FBS is an arbitrary but instead defined by the set of input • demand traction in manual mode -
classification which should contain all requirements allocated at operational maintenance operation.
the possible functionalities to be level. It should also be as refined as To model the operational layer, in the
implemented on the vehicle. Each possible as a lengthy list of actors leads context of vehicle functional design, we
section of the FBS should be composed to model complexity, lack of readability believe that only interface block
of two layers: operational and functional. and possible misinterpretation. diagrams (IBD) and sequence diagrams
• Operational layer: For any specified Wherever possible, actors should be (SD) are needed. The former provide a
function, a requirement should be merged: a maintenance worker and a static view of the internal structure that
allocated at operational level where it maintenance supervisor require the needs to be created to achieve the
relates to the vehicle in its entirety. This same level of access to vehicle functionality specified in the use case,
type of requirement identifies an external functionalities, for example, so it is not while the latter provide a dynamic
interface (known as an actor in the necessary to differentiate between them. view. Different design applications may
MBSE environment) which is expected Each actor should also be given a require different tools available in the
to execute the function or receive relevant definition for it to be properly MBSE environment, however we
feedback on the execution of the considered in the model. For example: suggest that it is essential to limit tools
function. • staff: company representatives to keep the model as simple as possible.
• Functional layer: For any specified authorised and possessing a key to We recommend that the results of the
function, a requirement should be access parts of the train operation analysis are finalised and
allocated at functional level where it • driver: personnel undertaking train shared internally to achieve formal
relates to only part of a vehicle. driving duties. The driver will have a agreement on the design decisions
Complex systems are then broken down key to access the train, a key to activate taken. Operational analysis should also
into subsystems. the driver´s desk and human-machine be finalised with the customer before
This allocation process may require interface (HMI), with access for driving starting functional analysis.
several iterations before it is considered only, and Operational analysis illustrates how
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Innovative trains | design
the vehicle is intended to behave in all however we suggest that it is essential achieved, marking the consolidation of
scenarios. MBSE makes it possible to to limit tools to keep the model as the concept design according to EN 50126.
clarify the behaviour of the vehicle with simple as possible. Milestone 2: Consolidation of the
the customer in the concept phase, The way to interpret the functional BDD, involving internal stakeholders
avoiding possible misunderstanding, implementation using two static views who agree on the interaction of
rework and extra costs. and a single dynamic one is based on functions at vehicle level, excluding
It is worth noting that one of the our personal experience and the views external actors. This milestone signifies
reasons MBSE is so powerful is that of others. Space constraints preclude us the consolidation of the preliminary
only one database (the model) is from going into detail on the process of design.
required. It contains all the details subdivision, but we are happy to Milestone 3: Based on the
needed to follow the functional design provide a fuller explanation for IRJ consolidated BDD, functional analysis is
phase, from conception to verification. readers who are interested. completed, involving:
With the analysis complete, we can • consolidation of the IBD at functional
illustrate how the results it generates level, and
Functional Layer can be seamlessly integrated into the • development of the SD at functional
For modelling the functional layer verification and validation (V&V) level.
(functional analysis), the requirements model, highlighting key points for the Upon completion of all SDs at the
allocated at the functional level should production of various deliverables to functional level, Detailed Design, as
be considered, plus the requirements maximise the advantages of the model- indicated in EN 50126, is achieved, the
generated by operational analysis. based approach. The proposed approach, Circuit Diagram is released, software is
No new external interface needs to be aligning with the V-curve methodology released, and functional requirements at
identified, consequently the list of outlined in EN 50126, Railway Applications subsystems level are frozen, marking
actors remains unchanged. The - The Specification and Demonstration the completion of the left side of the
identification of a new external interface of Reliability, Availability, V-curve.
at this level must be regarded as an Maintainability, and Safety (RAMS), is Utilising the intrinsic testability of the
error in the allocation process and inherently suitable for contracts where SD, the right-side phase of the V-curve
requires correction. this standard is mandated. can be initiated, allowing verification
At this level of the analysis the vehicle The initial phase involves identifying and validation at system level (using
is subdivided into multiple elements. all sources of requirements, positioned some results of the functional analysis)
There are several approaches which can on the left side of the V-curve and and at vehicle level by combining the
be used to do this, but in our opinion preceding the design phases. Functional results of operational and functional
the most efficient is to maintain the requirements are then categorised and analyses.
connections within the consolidated list assigned to two distinct layers of design
of use cases and divide according to the development: operational and functional.
following structure: Once all functional requirements are New concept and variability
For each use case, a division needs to identified and allocated to these layers, We will now briefly illustrate how the
be carried out considering four possible the functional design phase begins. results of MBSE can be extended in the
sections: circuit diagram (CD), system, Three significant milestones mark this case of a new project or new features. A
train control & management system phase: fundamental prerequisite is the
(TCMS), and TCMS Internal. Milestone 1: Consolidation of completion of the steps mentioned at
This division should be modelled operational analysis, including: the beginning of the modelling phase.
with the related implications between • identification of all actors (external This indicates that the initial effort to
the different functionalities. In stakeholders), build a model describing the vehicle
functional analysis we suggest • identification of the use case and functionalities for the pilot project has
proceeding with two static views in the functions to be executed (FBS), been undertaken.
model: the block definition diagram • consolidation of the IBD at operational With these conditions fulfilled, we
(BDD) and the IBD, and one dynamic level, and possess a robust model that
view or SD. As we noted for the • development of the SD at operational corresponds one-to-one with reality. In
operational layer, different design level. such cases, any new project can be
applications may require different tools Upon the completion of all SDs at implemented for differences and/or gap
available in the MBSE environment, operational level, the first milestone is analysis, simplifying and significantly
Photo: DB AG/Uwe Miethe
52
reducing the design phase. This modelling. This facilitates the of the project environment, including
efficiency is derived from the graphical expeditious execution of all deliverables actors and external stakeholders,
nature of MBSE. A visual inspection of pertinent to the modelling activity for • guard against over-modelling,
the model can readily clarify the impact the specifically modified functionality. particularly in the context of vehicle
to be considered and its implications for Concurrently, it ensures the prompt functional design. In this case only the
all stakeholders. transmission of requisite information to IBD, BDD and SD are deemed
As an illustration, let’s consider a all stakeholders involved. necessary, in our opinion. Other
variability aspect in the vehicle function The innate ability of humans to diagrams such as activity, package and
or use class mentioned above, demand comprehend drawings is deeply rooted state machine are excluded from the
traction in manual mode - normal in our evolutionary history and has description of vehicle functional design.
operation, namely a change in the played a role in our cognitive development. It is crucial to evaluate the necessity of
requirement related to the capability of Since the earliest days of humanity, each diagram before commencing the
the vehicle to run coupled. In this visual representation has been an modelling process, and
scenario, we assume that the vehicle can integral part of communication and self- • exclusively employ signals that directly
operate only as a single unit. expression. The mastery of interpreting correspond to real-world elements. If
A straightforward analysis of the model drawings is a unique cognitive skill that specific MBSE software is used for
indicates that the new requirements: has evolved over millennia. modelling, solutions requiring the creation
• will impact the list of external In the modern era, the power of of excessive structures to enable software
stakeholders (actors), reducing it by one visual communication has only functionality should be avoided. However,
• will bring modifications to the intensified, and the digital age attests to it is essential to note that MBSE is a
operational and functional levels (as the enduring significance of drawing in versatile methodology and can be applied
previously emphasised, the list of conveying complex information. MBSE even without dedicated software.
external stakeholders should already be elevates drawing and schematics to new The MBSE methodology has
clarified at the operational layer), and heights, realising the possibility to significant potential for the future
• will classify the modification as minor extend the cognitive ability to interpret development of railway rolling stock
because, in the example used here, it drawings within system engineering design. We are excited to see it develop
only affects the TCMS. methodology. However, to derive over the coming years. IRJ
These modifications, readily optimal benefits from MBSE, it is
identified through a straightforward imperative to adhere to a few sets of * Francesco Angerosa is a senior rolling
visual examination of the model, will steps and rules: stock expert at German Rail’s (DB)
simultaneously enable instantaneous • ensure a comprehensive understanding consultancy business DB ECO Group and
identification of the procedural of the project requirements, Salvatore Muoio is a senior systems engineer
requirements associated with • undertake comprehensive identification at HaslerRail. Both are based in Germany.
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InnoTrans 2024 | preview
Global rail industry’s finest on show in Berlin

The world’s largest railway technology trade show returns to Messe Berlin to present the newest and most
innovative products and services in the sector. The IRJ team picks out the exhibitor highlights.
W ITH the tribulations and

travel restrictions of the
Covid-19 pandemic now a
when the fair opens.
Outside, more than 110
vehicles will be on show.
on display, such as
Tatravagónka’s six-axle
intermodal Sdggmrss freight
and social media, while a daily
newsletter will be available
summarising the previous
distant memory, the rail world Highlights include Siemens wagon, featuring two integrated day’s highlights. As well as
will once again descend on Mobility presenting its pockets, designed primarily for reporting live from the show,
Messe Berlin for the 14th Vectrain concept and the transporting and loading/ IRJ editors will present a
iteration of the InnoTrans trade Velaro high-speed train for unloading non-craneable saddle review of the show in the
fair. More than 2900 exhibitors Egypt, while Stadler is trailers up to 40 tonnes in weight. November edition, and we
from 59 countries will fill showing eight train types, This year the opening would love to hear your
around 200,000 m² in 42 including its newly-launched ceremony will take place at thoughts and highlights of the
exhibition halls and 3500m of RS Zero alternative drive palais.Berlin on September 24. exhibition. We hope you enjoy
rail track, with over 130,000 railcar (p38) and the British Speakers will include Ms the show and look forward to
visitors expected between class 99 bi-mode freight Magda Kopczyńska, director- meeting many of you in Berlin!
September 24 and 27. locomotive. Alstom is general of the European
Messe Berlin says around 220 displaying its Coradia Max Commission’s Directorate- Preview key
world premieres will be unveiled regional train, and its Flexity LRV. General for Mobility and C Components
during the four-day event, Other exhibits in the outdoor Transport (DG Move), and Dr E Electrical systems
covering five sectors: railway area include Hitachi Rail’s Volker Wissing, Germany’s CT Consultants/training
technology, railway infrastructure, ETR1000 high-speed train, federal minister for digital IT IT/telecoms/digitalisation
public transport, interiors and CRRC’s energy-efficient affairs and transport. M Measuring and testing
tunnel construction. Cinova regional train, Hyundai To ease your navigation of P Passenger info/fare collection
All world premieres are Rotem’s new fuel cell-powered this vast event, IRJ has compiled R Railways/associations
identifiable by a button on LRV and a demonstrator a list of the highlights and RE Research organisations
exhibitors’ stands, hall plans, version of Vossloh Rolling must-sees over the next nine RM Rolling stock maintenance
in the InnoTrans App and at Stock’s Modula BFC hybrid pages. We have included a key S Signalling
InnoTrans Plus, the updated fuel cell-powered freight to categorise each company TI Track and infrastructure
online visitor planning tool. locomotive. A wide range of (see right). TE Traction equipment
The World Innovation Guide is vehicles, including passenger For those unable to attend, TR Trains
available online, and as a print coaches, maintenance vehicles IRJ editors will offer live IN Interiors
version at the press centre and freight wagons will also be coverage on railjournal.com
International Railway Journal (Hall 6.2, stand 100) will have a strong presence at this year’s event. products and technologies
IRJ editor-in-chief Kevin Smith will be joined by deputy editor Mark Simmons, associate editor including, but not limited to:
Robert Preston and contributing editor David Briginshaw in Berlin. IRJ’s editorial team will onboard traction components,
publish news stories and maintain an online blog live from the show, helping to keep IRJ readers control and signalling,
abreast of the major highlights of the exhibition as they happen. IRJ’s editors will also compile a passenger stations, traction
special newsletter, which will be distributed every morning of InnoTrans. Production manager Sue power supply and tunnels.
Morant will welcome visitors to IRJ’s stand where they will be able to learn more about TR Possessing a fleet of 750
subscriptions to IRJ’s website and magazine, and our exclusive database product IRJ Pro. IRJ’s locomotives and 46 passenger
sales team, including publisher Jonathan Chalon, will be available throughout the event to discuss vehicles, as well as solutions
commercial opportunities across our portfolio of products. We look forward to seeing you in Berlin. covering the entire rolling
stock value chain, Akiem (City
IT Australian supplier 4Tel real-time object analysis, and packs, the newest addition to Cube Hall A, stand 445) will
subsidiary 4AI (Hall 7.1a, offers railway staff better ABB’s already extensive offer insight into the rolling
stand 550) will present Horus, situational awareness during Bordline range, are engineered stock leasing and maintenance
an advanced driver advisory rail operations. to offer world-class services that it provides to
system which uses real-time C E IT S TE ABB (Hall 9, performance and superior over 90 operators,
sensors and software. 4AI says stand 320) will unveil a new energy density in a compact, manufacturers, and local
the system is based on “all- series of traction batteries. lightweight design. Also on authorities working in 22
seeing AI,” which is capable of These innovative battery display will be a range of European countries.
C The Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) is expected to be a hot
topic at this year’s show. Voith (Hall 1.2, stand 130) will present
its CargoFlex DAC. The automatic coupler, which makes rail
freight safer and more efficient, is currently undergoing testing
and trials within the framework of the Europe’s Rail Flagship
Project 5 TRANS4M-R and the latest update on the development
of this coupler can be found on the stand. The current version
of Voith’s hybrid coupler for locomotives (left) will also be on
display. This has been designed to allow coupling to both a draw
hook and automatic coupling, as the head can be set to the
automatic or manual position as required. It is suitable for
operators that wish to gradually convert their fleets to DAC.

RM BvL Oberflächentechnik
(Hall 6.2, stand 430) will
present its range of systems
for cleaning rolling stock
components, such as bogies,
wheelsets, wheel bearings, and
traction motor stators and
rotors, during production and
maintenance. BvL’s Ocean
cleaning system thoroughly
removes even stubborn dirt,
both inside and outside. This
is crucial for the reliable
operation and longevity of the
motor. All cleaning process
steps take place in one
chamber. Other components,
including housings, bearing
covers and trapezoidal
springs, can also be cleaned C E IT RM S TE TR Alstom (Hall 3.2, stand 450) will present a wide range of green traction
efficiently with BvL systems. solutions, including battery and hydrogen options, with visitors able to identify the best solution
C E TE ComatReleco (Hall for their specific needs by using a green traction configurator. Alstom’s flagship Avelia Horizon
2.2, stand 250) is a specialised high-speed train will be highlighted by means of an in-depth immersive experience combining
supplier of relays and physical and digital elements, while the manufacturer will also demonstrate technology to increase
contactors for onboard system performance and optimise maintenance, including the world’s first deployment of ETCS
systems such as toilets, HVAC with hybrid train detection, leveraging AI for predictive maintenance and an advanced
and doors. At InnoTrans it will cybersecurity portfolio. On display outside (T5/40 and T5/45) will be the Coradia Max regional
present the new MRS13R train for LNVG in Germany and the Flexity LRV for Berlin public transport operator BVG.
overcurrent protection relay,
providing fast and precise and services for system-critical eight efficiency cores as well services for laboratory and
tripping of a circuit breaker in applications and will present as a DDR5 RAM with capacity other testing of infrastructure
order to prevent serious new product designs for of up to 96 GB. and rolling stock, including
damage from current overload onboard and lineside M Eurailtest (Hall A, stand approvals. Eurailtest will also
or a short circuit. Developed in applications including real- 635) markets the expertise in share it latest innovative
close cooperation with a time track to train testing heavy and urban rail solutions with visitors during
customer to meet their specific communications, onboard systems and subsystems of three presentations taking place
requirements, the MRS13R can control and monitoring systems, French national passenger from 11.00 to 12.30 on
detect and react to an overload signalling and passenger operator SNCF Voyageurs, September 25 at the Business
in just 20ms. information systems. New infrastructure manager SNCF France stand (Hall 11.2, stand
IT Duagon (Hall 27, stand products include the G029M, a Network and Paris metro and 270).
740) supplies embedded CompactPCI Serial card with light rail operator RATP. It C IT S Frauscher (Hall 27,
electronic hardware, software up to six performance and will be presenting its range of stand 270) will present new
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up to Safety Integrity Level 4 InspectRail (Hall 24, stand
(SIL4) and Frauscher Insights, 330a) will present its modular
a cloud-based platform that and scalable solution for
makes operational data comprehensive infrastructure
available for diagnostic and monitoring, which can be
maintenance purposes. mounted on any rail vehicle.
IT Huawei (Hall 4.1, stand The system uses advanced AI
320) will highlight a project algorithms to automate
recently completed for the anomaly detection and data
Passenger Rail Agency of reporting, facilitating proactive
South Africa (Prasa), the maintenance strategies to
installation of an end-to-end minimise downtime and
railway perimeter security reduce operating costs. One
IT Bosch Engineering (Hall 20, stand 320) will present its Rail system that has seen security module has been designed
Forward Assist system, which aims to achieve greater safety in incidents on the Metrorail specifically for monitoring
rail transport and further reduce the number of accidents. The commuter network fall by 53% track geometry and detecting
modular assistance system consists of a control unit and various from 1768 in 2021-22 to 823 in rail surface defects,
sensors, which ensure seamless monitoring of the area in front 2022-23. Huawei says that this continuously gathering precise
of the rail vehicle. The sensor cluster employed depends on the is the world’s first application data that assists with the early
specific use case and can comprise camera, radar, Lidar, and of optical-visual linkage detection of defects before
ultrasonic modules. The system can be configured for specific detection in rail, integrating they cause major problems.
uses, including mainline, commuter and urban trains, as well as fibre-optic sensing and The flexible architecture of the
shunting yards and maintenance depots. intelligent vision technology to InpectRail system means that
detect intrusion with an it can be adapted and
products that include what it point machines while accuracy of ±5m and generate customised to meet the specific
describes as a future-proof providing data for condition alarms in real time. Also on and evolving needs of
wayside object controller monitoring. The Frauscher show will be Huawei solutions different railway systems,
(WOC) for points, featuring an stand will also feature a data for the Future Rail Mobile ranging from light rail to
interface that meets the Eulynx transmission solution for Communication System mainline networks.
standard. The WOC is able to seamless exchange of input- (FRMCS) and the rail cloud. E TE Under its new slogan
effectively control and monitor output data for applications M Spanish start-up of “Impact Tomorrow,” Kiepe
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Composites
RM TI Exhibiting at InnoTrans for the first time, Enerpac (Hall Powder Coatings
10.2, stand 205) will display its range of hydraulic tools for
infrastructure and rolling stock maintenance. The TL248
hydraulic track lift system will be the centrepiece of the stand,
designed to efficiently and safely support track during
replacement, levelling and alignment. Also on display will be
the SC-Series and XC2-Series cordless hydraulic battery pumps
Liquid Coatings
and the BTW-Series battery torque wrench, which with a long
battery life can provide a safer, more efficient and greener
alternative to diesel generators at remote worksites.
E-Coats
(Hall 9 stand 430) will present Maintenance. The Evolution of
its range of electrical equipment Braking space will enable
and systems for rolling stock, visitors to compare the latest
including a next-generation developments in electro-
train control and management pneumatic braking systems
system (TCMS) that meets the with Knorr-Bremse’s new
latest cybersecurity standards. digital electro-mechanical
The manufacturer has also braking system. This relies
First class all the way
developed a new traction entirely on electrical signals to
inverter, and will display its transmit braking commands
The coated surfaces of rail vehicles pose a great challenge.
range of auxiliary power and apply braking force, with
supply systems, combing high no need for air or oil to act as Exterior coatings have to be able to withstand high mecha-
energy efficiency, connectivity, a pressure-generating medium. nical stresses and environmental influences. High-quality,
and low lifecycle costs. Kiepe Knorr-Bremse says that the new water-borne coating systems have become established for
offers rolling stock a second system offers weight savings of these applications.
life with its refurbishment up to 15%, optimising
solutions to reduce emissions performance and sustainability In the interior of trains, underground systems, municipal trains
and increase passenger comfort, while improving efficiency and and trams, the decorative panelling elements have to be
while its lifecycle management simplifying maintenance (p70). highly resistant to the wear and tear caused by everyday
portfolio offers a range of C IT Reducing accidents in passenger traffic. These parts are generally manufactured
comprehensive after-sales boarding areas is a key mission in the GRP construction method.
services, including obsolescence for Mayser (Hall 3.1a, stand
and repair management, 770), a specialist in innovative Whether for interior or exterior application, FreiLacke
software solutions, and a new safety technology for public always offers a premium service.
maintenance tablet. transport. With tactile and This is because FreiLacke offers the entire range
C IT M Knorr-Bremse (Hall non-touch sensor technology
of high-quality coating solutions tested to the
1.2, stand 250) will present for train doors, the company’s
latest railway standards from a single source.
braking and other rolling stock focus is on solutions that
systems grouped under five prevent accidents and keep door
categories: Traffic Flow, cycle times stable. Representatives
Ecological Footprint, Digital will demonstrate how the
Solutions, Travelling Comfort, safety systems work and what
and Operations and contribution they make to
IRJ September 2024

InnoTrans 2024 | interview
Unife’s new director general sets sights

on closer industry collaboration
Enno Wiebe officially took over as the new director general of the European Rail Industry Supply Association
(Unife) on June 1. He reveals his plans for the organisation to Kevin Smith.
V
ISITORS to the European Rail Wiebe believes that his experience at for Interoperability (TSI), working
Industry Supply Association’s CER can help to bridge the gap that alongside the European Union Agency
(Unife) stand at InnoTrans are often exists between the rail operating for Railways (ERA) on wider
likely to be greeted by the new director community and suppliers. Indeed, standardisation. ERJU’s Deployment
general. Mr Enno Wiebe took up this eliminating industry silos is a priority Group is similarly working to offer a
role on June 1, succeeding his long- for Wiebe, who sees it as crucial for the clear pathway from research and
serving predecessor, Mr Philippe Citroën. sector if it is to deliver many of the key development to industry deployment.
Wiebe is no stranger to the rail projects and innovation programmes “If you look at the composition of the
industry. He joins Unife following a now underway and in which Unife founding members, it’s a sound balance
13-year career with the Community of plays a central role. between the rail operating community
European Railway and Infrastructure “I want to open up the dialogue,” he and the supply industry,” Wiebe says.
Companies (CER), where he served as says. “Not just exchanging views or “And that is what we need, because we
technical director. He also worked for position papers, but really to talk to need to collectively develop and
the International Union of Railways each other, to work with each other, collectively deploy. It is not something
(UIC) between 2007 and 2011 after and to develop things and to work fancy that someone in Brussels
starting his career with German Rail (DB). towards common targets or visions.” develops. It is coming from the actors
Wiebe says he is excited to cross over One example of a programme that themselves. It fits a defined framework,
into the more competitive environment has already done much to improve this which is regulated and standardised,
of the supply industry. But it’s not all dialogue is the Europe’s Rail joint and has a defined migration strategy.”
change. He reveals that 80-90% of research undertaking (ERJU). There is a Wiebe is hopeful of adopting a
Unife’s views on technical greater presence of operators and similar holistic approach for the rollout
developments and the future vision for infrastructure managers within ERJU of the Future Railway Mobile
the rail sector are the same as those held compared with its predecessor Communication System (FRMCS), a
by the state-owned operators and Shift2Rail, although the original cross- project where he expects significant
infrastructure managers he has been industry research and development progress over the next two years or so.
working alongside. initiative did open the door to closer He is also encouraged by the cross-
“The nice thing for me is that the collaboration. industry work taking place to develop
topics are not completely new, the Crucially, the ERJU’s System Pillar is Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) and is
environment is not new,” Wiebe says. closely aligning development within the hopeful that this collaborative approach
“The perspective is the only thing that Innovation Pillar and the process of can spill over into the wider
is a little different now.” updating the Technical Specifications deployment of ERTMS, a consistent
sticking point for the industry.
Funding
Inevitably, these programmes need
money and securing the necessary
“
government funding is the sector’s
biggest challenge. Wiebe believes that it
If we come to the should not be a choice between one
institutions and just programme or another as delivery of all
these innovations is required for rail to
say, we need more achieve its full potential in Europe,
notably through the creation of the
money, I’m not sure Single European Railway Area (Sera).
However, the industry needs to make a
they will buy it. compelling case to convince those
holding the purse strings that it
Enno Wiebe
deserves the required level of support.
“If we come to the institutions and
just say, we need more money, I’m not
sure they will buy it,” Wiebe says. “But
if we say we want to invest in rail, we
believe in rail, we have innovative
programmes - not products, but
programmes - and we even have a
sound migration strategy, then I think possess the necessary enthusiasm to progressively more attractive place for
that is convincing.” present the supply sector’s concerns young people to work, reflecting a
These are not hollow arguments. Rail and aspirations in a constructive way general recruitment challenge across the
has much in its favour, chiefly strong during discussions in Brussels and rail industry.
environmental credentials and the elsewhere. There is certainly much for Wiebe to
apparently broad political consensus There are also challenges closer to get his teeth into. Many of the key
that supporting rail is an effective way home. Wiebe says he is keen to address topics will be discussed during
of decarbonising transport. The health the concerns of the SME community presentations at the Unife stand at
of the European and wider global within Unife. He adds that Unife is InnoTrans (see panel below). The global
market reflects this sentiment (p26), as working hard to support its more than rail industry’s most high-profile event
Unife will underline with the official 100 members with the increasingly appears to be the perfect forum for
launch of the 2024 edition of its World important issue of cybersecurity. growing cross-industry collaboration to
Rail Market Study during InnoTrans. Internally, he hopes to make Unife a blossom. IRJ
But inevitably there are challenges
that could yet stall this momentum.
Inflation, high energy costs, and supply Unife leads debate on key industry topics
T
chain disruption are continuing to HE European Rail Industry Supply Association (Unife) will offer visitors to
impact European suppliers under InnoTrans a series of presentations and events to highlight its latest activities
pressure from Asian competitors. The as well as key industry talking points at its exhibit (Hall 27, stand 630).
ongoing war in Ukraine also adds a Key events include a presentation of the major findings of the 2024 World Rail
further sense of jeopardy and Market Study on September 24 at 13.30. Unife will host its SMEs Award 2024 at 10.00
uncertainty over future priorities for on September 25, while a special forum will take place on September 26 at 10.00 to
government investment. discuss driving efficiency and performance in railway systems through ERTMS.
“It always terrifies me when I see Other highlights include a session on the Western Balkans and Europe, with an
discussions of budget cuts, when I see emphasis on the investment required to deliver the TEN-T network (September 24
reductions in personnel,” Wiebe says.
at 15.00), sessions on FRMCS (September 24 at 16.00) and cybersecurity
“This is the wrong kind of momentum
(September 25 at 11.15), and a discussion of the common challenges facing the
for rail. Please give us the right signals.”
European and North American rail supply industries on September 25 at 14.00. A
Lobbying to get what rail needs will
meet and greet cocktail reception will take place on September 24 at 17.00.
be important and Wiebe seems to

smooth entry and exit. solutions for electronic power current supply, D-CCD management (ETBN). They
E TE Mersen (Hall 9, stand modules, Mersen will measures collector temperature, offer the highest level of
220) will present its portfolio demonstrate D-CCD, a digital the force applied on the third network security and enable
of products for electric rolling monitoring system for third- rail by the shoe, and the shock faster upgrade cycles for
stock including metro cars and rail current collectors that and vibration experienced by regular security updates and
LRVs. In addition to high- helps to reduce wear on the the shoe. Data collected in real new functionalities.
temperature bus bars and collector shoe. In addition to time can then inform IT Automation company
high-performance cooling monitoring the quality of the condition-based maintenance Pilz (Hall 27, stand 550) will
strategies, enabling the present PSSrail, a safe,
TI Lankhorst Engineered Products (Hall 21, stand 225) will operator to determine if the modular control system for the
showcase what it says is the world’s first composite sleeper shoe is still operational or digital railway. The system has
with integral moulded baseplate connections. The Type 104 KLP requires replacement. railway approval, meets safety
hybrid polymer sleeper avoids the need for machining IT A provider of IP-based requirements up to SIL4, is
baseplates on site and simplifies the installation of composite communications solutions, compatible with the Eulynx
sleepers in plain track, turnouts, bridges and tunnels. The new Moxa (Hall 4.1, stand 550) will standard and is flexible to use.
sleeper is made from ductile polymer with encased steel bars, be showcasing what it says is It combines all the functions
and track fastenings are fitted during production to provide a the world’s first router needed to fulfil existing or
fully integrated baseplate connection. The Type 104 on display certified to IEC 62443-4-2 future control tasks on the
at InnoTrans will feature Pandrol Fastclip and W14/W30 Security Level 2 (SL2) as well line. PSSrail enables system
fastenings. as switches, IP cameras, and suppliers and integrators to
embedded computers with implement digitisation projects
integrated cybersecurity for in signalling and railway
railway applications. To meet infrastructure simply, quickly
the need for enhanced and therefore economically.
cybersecurity provision in the M RM PJM (Hall A, stand
increasingly automated 220) will showcase its
railway environment, Moxa WaggonTracker smart digital
has developed the TN-4900 freight train system, which
series of secure routers for provides a wide range of
train control and management functions, including real-time
systems (TCMS) and Ethernet brake analysis and monitoring
train backbone network of brake systems and wear
AŽD
Safely to your destination
Traditional Czech
supplier of modern control
and signalling
systems including ETCS
www.azd.cz
60
60 IRJ ???????? 2016 IRJ September 2024
forecasting, multi-diagnostic
dynamic running condition
monitoring, monitoring of
longitudinal, lateral and vertical
impacts and indicative
derailment diagnosis with real-
time warning to the driver. PJM
will also present its newly-
constructed test hall, that includes
a dynamic test rig for end-of-
line testing of instrumented
wheelsets, and a mobile test rig
for measuring wheelsets for all
track gauges and calibration
during on-site test runs.
E IT CT Representatives of
Powerlines (Hall 22, stand 340
and Hall 4.2, stand 150) will be
on hand to present the company’s
infrastructure service offering,
including for electrification,
power supply, safety and TI E At this year’s InnoTrans, Plasser & Theurer (Hall 26, stand 270 and Track Areas T02/50,
signalling system projects. T02/55 and T03/50) will attempt to answer key questions for the rail sector such as how can we
They will explain how react to the challenges posed by climate change as quickly as possible and in a sustainable way,
Powerlines designs, installs how can the cost-effectiveness of track construction and maintenance continue to increase, and
and maintains electrification how can the shortage of skilled staff be addressed. Plasser & Theurer will also unveil a world first
systems for railway networks at Track 02/55 with its InfraSpector autonomous road-rail vehicle that can quickly move on and off
and provides cutting-edge the track, even in areas where access is difficult. The mobile testing lab measures track geometry,
expertise in both urban and longitudinal and transverse rail profile as well as the structure gauge and ballast bed profile, with
inter-city transport modes. additional parameters integrated on request. It is accredited as a testing lab in accordance with
They will also showcase the DIN ISO/IEC 17025, a decisive factor for the quality and reliability of the measurements. The full
company’s complete range of range of Plasser & Theurer products and services will also be on display.
Horus
Onboard Rail Vision and Sensor
Perception and Warning System
EN4CER-Horus example driver display
Real-time Hazard and Collision Automated Brake

Infrastructure Detection Avoidance Enforcement
Automatic detection and recognition Real-time monitoring of train speed, Together, Horus and our EN4CER
of objects, hazards, wayside points, stopping distance and upcoming systems suite can act as fully
signage, aspects and more for object detection providing visual onboard advanced driver advisory
enhanced driver awareness. and audible alerts. systems with automated brake
enforcement capabilities.
LEARN MORE ENQUIRE NOW

www.4aisys.com [email protected]
VISIT US AT INNOTRANS - AI MOBILITY LAB, HALL 7.1A STAND 550

September
IRJ ???????? 2016 61
2024 61
stand 300) will showcase its
comprehensive product
portfolio for trains. Renowned
for expertise in architectural
and marine glazing, Sedak is
now extending its knowledge
of glass properties to the rail
sector. Products are
specifically tailored to meet
the high demands of the rail
industry and the full range
includes special and standard
products for high-speed trains,
C TR Under the slogan “Unleash our potential” Vossloh Rolling Stock is jointly exhibiting with regional trains and urban
Imateq this year (Hall 7.2c, stand 217 and stand O/300 in the South Outdoor Area). One of this transport, such as complex
year’s world premieres is the presentation of the hydrogen-powered Modula BFC locomotive that curved windscreens, cab side
will operate at the new Duisburg Gateway Terminal (DGT), the largest intermodal terminal in the windows, side windows and
European hinterland. Also on display will be the Modula EBB battery-hydrogen fuel cell interior glazing panels.
locomotive, that has been undergoing approval as a type test locomotive since April, and the DE 18 C IT Sensonic (Hall 27,
SmartHybrid locomotive, which is equipped with a powerful drive system. stand 180) will display the latest
software and hardware versions
services, innovative components and increase train frequencies, tamping and drilling machines. of its infrastructure monitoring
and complete systems for while simultaneously looking In the outdoor area, the new solutions. Sensonic’s Distributed
electrification. to reduce energy consumption. Rowrench eight-spindle Acoustic Sensing (DAS)
Powerlines subsidiary Equans PSI will also present its latest wrenching machine will system, using fibre-optic cable
will demonstrate its tailor-made integrated control system that demonstrate the advantages of to “hear” trespass and other
turnkey solutions for the combines all areas of rail automation in terms of process railway security threats, can
decarbonisation and digitalisation operations. speed and quality. A world now be integrated with CCTV
of transport, while fellow IT Rail Vision (Hall 27, premiere will take place on to provide visual confirmation
subsidiary Icomera will display stand 770) will showcase its September 25 at 16.00 at T02/60 of events such as trespass and
its full range of applications, driver assistance system, which when the Rorunner E³ hybrid cable theft outside of a
including passenger Wi-Fi, harnesses AI and advanced track vehicle is officially camera’s field of view,
onboard entertainment, real- electro-optical sensor technologies, handed over to Munich allowing camera operators to
time information and digital and which can identify and Transport Authority (MVG). pan and zoom to identify,
video surveillance, as well as the categorise obstacles on or near Also on display will be the monitor, and coordinate a
world’s first Wi-Fi 7 access the track. On display will be self-driving, electric Rospect response while gathering
point purpose-built for public both shunting yard solutions, measuring vehicle the first evidence. Revised DAS
transport. which can detect and classify Robel Group cooperation sensing units that incorporate
IT PSI (Hall 2.1, stand 51) objects within a 200m range, product for track measurement AI algorithms to process
will unveil the initial results at and mainline solutions, which and rail inspection. Vogel & gathered data in real-time
InnoTrans of plans to expand extend visual range up to 2km. Plötscher will showcase new, within the device will also be
its power control system TI M Robel Group (Hall 26, digital solutions for crosson display. This AI capability
software, which combines stand 480, plus various profile measurement (PML) in allows for a faster and more
operational management with outdoor locations) will present hand-held or machine- accurate response to threats
control of entire electrical the latest machines and solutions integrated versions, as well as such as landslides, rockfall
infrastructure in a single, for track maintenance. Within devices for detecting crack and security concerns as well
optimally coordinated system. their range of hand-held depths and irregularities in the as retaining data sovereignty.
PSI expects increasing demand machines, Robel will reveal rail surface (RSCM). IT TR As in previous years
for this type of system as rail new electric and hybrid drives C Making its debut this Siemens Mobility (Hall 27,
operators expand their networks for wrenching, grinding, InnoTrans, Sedak (Hall 1.1, stand 230; Hall 27, stand 220
Take your chance and come on board!

NEXT STOP ULTIMATE!
https://www.ultimate-eur.com/karriere/
62
and various outdoor locations) to help transport operators IN Vogelsang (Hall 6.2, stand 210) will showcase its systems for
will make new product and overcome current challenges hygienic wastewater disposal and drinking water supply in
service announcements during such as staff attraction and passenger trains, including the BioUnit MID and BioUnit SMA
the show, with a press retention, passenger and client range, which are suitable for waste disposal and cleaning of
conference scheduled for satisfaction, profitability, and bioreactor toilets. The built-in rotary lobe pump in the BioUnit
September 23 at 14.30. What we sustainability. Software MID enables pressurised wastewater disposal from the toilets
can tell you now is that several focusing on dispatching and into a sewer or tank without an additional vacuum system.
vehicles will be available to rostering with fair satisfaction Also on display will be the BioUnit BIG for the mechanical and
view outside, including the of personal preferences will be chemical cleaning of bioreactors, as well as TUnit MP, a multi-
Velaro high-speed train for demonstrated. New for this user system for medium-sized and large rail depots, and the
Egypt (IRJ April, p19) and the InnoTrans is the real-time closed system VacUnit, which can convey both liquid and air in
Vectrain cross-border inter-city dispatcher Virtual Assistant, the same operation.
concept. Inside, Siemens will which detects disruption, finds
demonstrate its latest a suitable recovery plan and
innovations that deliver 100% adjusts work assignments
availability of trains, maximise accordingly without any
network capacity, and human intervention. This
improvements to the customer innovative solution was
experience to reach up to 100% developed in collaboration
occupancy. Also on display with Netherlands Railways (NS).
will be next-level connectivity S TR For the first time,
through more modular Stadler (Hall 2.2, stand 230,
software, using standardised plus various outdoor
APIs, and software modules locations) is bringing together
that have been moved into the its rail vehicle and signalling
cloud for digital solutions. portfolios on the same stand.
Finally, expect a world The company will present
premiere in the signalling eight innovative, sustainable
technology arena. vehicle concepts, as well as
IT Software specialist Siscog developments in the areas of
(Hall 6.1, stand 255) will service and signalling. A
showcase solutions designed world premiere will be the
RAIL
WAY
The culture of quality and innovation
www.dromos.c
om
Dromos manufactures a wide range of railway axle beveled gearboxes with optional transfer gearbox on the input side, railway
axle parallel input gearboxes directly flanged to an hydrostatic or electric motor, special gearbox set for railway bogies,
railway axles for special purposes or road-to-rail conversions, single or double ratio transfer gearboxes, reversing gearboxes.
RAILWAY AXLE BEVEL PARALLEL INPUT AXLE RAILWAY AXLES

GEARBOXES GEARBOXES FOR ROAD-TO-RAIL CONVERSIONS
Dromos s.r.l. - Via Guido Rossa, 7 - Località Monteveglio - 40053 Valsamoggia (BO) - Italy - Tel. +39 051 830600 - Fax +39 051 830598 - [email protected]
Dromos USA Inc. - 2275 N. Opdyke Rd. - MI 48326 Auburn Hills - U.S.A. - Ph. +1 248-331-3885 - Fax +1 248 723 4969 - [email protected]
September
IRJ ???????? 2016 63
2024 63
cohesive entity for seamless no real-time visibility of the
integration of all components. status and condition of more
LTIS is based on three key than 90% of the estimated
areas: safety, maintenance and 5.2 million wagons in service
shunting yard operations. As globally. Wabtec’s Railcar
the industry continues to Telematics includes sensors,
adopt longer trains, Trilogical gateways, wireless
is working to address the communications, and analytics,
unique challenges this poses which will enable users to
by optimising operations, capture currently hidden data
enhancing safety and that they can turn into actionable
providing financial benefits. information. Among the
IT S TI Voestalpine (Hall components monitored are
21b, stand 150) will focus on handbrakes, hatches, and
intelligent turnout and rail doors, while the platform can
TI C In another first for this year’s show, Pandrol (Hall 23, systems that it says herald a offer data on loaded/unloaded
stand 250) will debut its new i+weld range, featuring the new era in rail transport. The status, as well as freight
exclusive i+align technology. The manufacturer says this game- company will also present temperature and pressure of a
changing tool offers unmatched precision and efficiency for track signalling solutions that can tank wagon. The work is
welders, demonstrating Pandrol’s commitment to advancing rail seamlessly integrate into connected to the RailPulse
welding solutions. The company’s stand will feature a noise and modern interlocking initiative for the North
vibration zone, where experts will present custom solutions and technologies such as Eulynx, American rail freight sector in
case studies on mitigating noise and vibration, providing which provide interfaces for which Wabtec is participating
visitors with valuable insights into successful real-world more efficient and safer rail (IRJ November 2023 p30).
applications and how Pandrol plans to address industry traffic control. Visitors will be C RM You are invited to
challenges. Noise and vibration specialist engineer, Mr Keith able to experience live celebrate with ZF Innovation
Jackson, will make a presentation on this topic at Speaker’s demonstrations of how these (Hall 20, stand 580) as it
Corner on September 25 at 10.00. On the main stand, Pandrol technologies contribute to reaches the milestone of its
will present its full range of fastening systems, aluminothermic optimised operations. Virtual 100th birthday. One of the
welding and track equipment, electrification products, and its reality user journeys will highlights at InnoTrans will be
sustainable resilient systems for vibration mitigation. illustrate the intelligent ZF’s condition monitoring
presentation of the RS Zero, IT Another world premiere systems contained in zentrak, system connect@rail. Through
Stadler’s reinvention of the is the highlight for a digital hub for asset and the smart use of sensor
Regio-Shuttle railcar with Technotrans SE (Hall 14.1, maintenance management as technology, telematics and
alternative (hydrogen or stand 300), which will unveil a well as diagnostics and cloud computing, connect@rail
battery) drives (p38). It will be combination device for cooling monitoring for infrastructure can identify potential faults on
presented at T09/40 at 14.00 on the battery and power and rolling stock. both vehicle wheels and track.
September 24. Individual electronics of battery-powered C E RM S TI TE TR One of The system can help make
presentations of other vehicles, rail vehicles. This new solution the highlights for Wabtec (Hall operations and maintenance
including the Kiss Cityjet and offers a space-saving and 1.2, stand 210) is the work more predictable, avoid
Britain’s class 99 bi-mode energy-efficient complete presentation of its wagon failures and downtime, and
freight locomotive, will take system with just one central telematics solutions. The facilitate better planning for
place at other dates, times and interface. The device is also supplier says there is currently repairs today and tomorrow. IRJ
locations - see the InnoTrans available in an almost identical
website or app for details. version using the natural RE Europe’s Rail (ERJU) will have an extensive presence at
TR Spanish manufacturer refrigerant R290 (propane). InnoTrans, hosting a full programme of events and
Talgo (Hall 4.2, stand 360; Hall Technotrans points out that presentations at its stand (Hall 27, stand 511) which it will share
4.2, stand 450; Track 02/10) the combination device cools with the European Commission (EC) and the European Union
will showcase its expertise in not only the traction battery Agency for Railways (ERA).
high-speed train design, but also the vehicle’s power Kicking off a busy week in Berlin is the European Train to
construction and maintenance. electronics, such as the InnoTrans, which will depart from Brussels on the morning on
The company has developed a inverter and converter. September 23. ERJU and ERA will participate in sessions held
new type of running gear Regardless of whether the onboard the train, culminating in an event where politicians
frame which dramatically intended vehicle is a pure, bi- and key industry figures will welcome its arrival at Berlin main
reduces mass by 50% by using or tri-mode battery train, the station at 15.20 on September 23.
carbon fibre-reinforced device covers a wide range of One of the highlights of the exhibition itself will be a VIP event
polymer composites. This applications, and the company at 11.30 on September 24 when CEOs, MEPs and government
rolling assembly has been says that it is happy to representatives will join ERJU officials to review several of the
designed using the Avril develop customised versions key innovations to emerge from the current European research
high-speed platform as a on request. and development programme as well as its predecessor,
reference but could easily be IT Trilogical (Hall 6.2, stand Shift2Rail. ERJU experts will also offer an update on progress
adapted to other Talgo 450), a company which has with the Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) project during a
products and segments, with pioneered telematics for long presentation at Speaker’s Corner on September 26 at 10.00.
positive impact expected on freight trains, will present the Other key events at the stand include the Women in Rail
passenger capacity, a latest version of Long-Train Award ceremony (September 24 at 15.00) and presentations on
simplified assembly process, Intelligence System (LTIS), the future of ERTMS (September 25 at 10.00), FRMCS (September
and a reduction in energy which transforms train 25 at 10.45) and improving cross-border services (September 26
consumption and track wear monitoring and management at 11.00). Tours of the stands of ERJU founding members will
and tear. by viewing the train as a also take place throughout the duration of the exhibition.
64
InnoTrans 2024 | sustainability
Contenders line up for Sustainability Impact Awards

Previewing a selection of the shortlisted nominees for the UIC’s Sustainability Impact Awards 2024 ahead of
the ceremony on September 25 at InnoTrans.
T HE International Union of Railways (UIC) has announced the

finalists for its Sustainability Impact Awards 2024. Nominees
come from five regions - North and South America, Asia, the
Railways (ÖBB). The awards ceremony will take place at the
Alstom stand at InnoTrans 2024 on September 25.
Entrants were asked to demonstrate real impact on
Middle East and Europe - with 17 projects in the running for seven sustainability, ideally delivering on more than one of the United
awards across four action areas: Customer Service, Innovation, Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Cities and Communities, and Seamless Connectivity. “It has been an absolute pleasure hearing from project leaders
All of the categories are featured in the UIC 2030 Vision - around the world talking so passionately about their work that is
Design a Better Future strategy, which aims to place rail at the making a real impact,” Anderton says.
centre of a future decarbonised transport system. “What is exciting is that many of the innovations and ideas in
The projects were scored by a jury led by UIC’s head of the projects are transferable, so I hope we can spread the word
sustainability, Ms Lucie Anderton, and co-president, Mr Christian and inspire all of our members.”
Kern, a former chancellor of Austria and CEO of Austrian Federal Here we present the shortlisted entrants for four of the awards:
Energy and and fossil diesel, and it has

converted 20 refuelling points
energy projects are being
introduced across the network.
ÖBB Infrastructure
Solar Rail Power Farm for
decarbonisation to accept HVO. This includes projects at Happy Chicks (SRPF4HC)
stations along with the
DB Cargo introduction of noise barriers
Korea Railway Research
Fuel for the future – and the use of heat pumps for Following success with
Institute
HVO@DB Cargo HVAC systems. To reduce constructing solar power
Decarbonising technologies for a
This project comes from the net-zero railway (Ecodesign and emissions in the value chain, plants that directly feed into
freight operator’s strategy to CF100) KRRI is integrating circular the railway power grid,
phase out diesel by 2040. economy principles, including Austrian Federal Railways
Replacing diesel on non- KRRI is developing designing rolling stock with (ÖBB) is taking the next steps
electrified lines is very technologies and techniques to high recyclability and reduced in its renewable energy
challenging for freight decarbonise Korea’s railway emissions. journey. The company
locomotives given their power by addressing the whole scope
needs. As a bridge technology, of greenhouse gas emissions.
DB Cargo has introduced This wide-ranging programme
hydrotreated vegetable oil
(HVO) as a supplementary
of work considers the
characteristics of emission FROM HEAVY
TONNAGE TO HIGH
fuel. This is currently the only sources, focusing on carbon
technical option for reducing supply chain management,
CO₂-equivalent emissions from eco-design, and the circular
existing diesel locomotives.
The HVO used is sourced
economy. Examples include
the transition to hydrogen- SPEED RAIL Learn
exclusively from waste powered rolling stock to
combat direct emissions from
What’s New at
materials and is free from
diesel, and to complement InnoTrans
palm oil. It delivers a
reduction in emissions of up to electrification projects and Hall 26
90%. DB Cargo has reported investment in high-speed lines. Booth 170
positive results from its This work will be supported
extensive testing of the fuel, by lifecycle assessment to
undertaking comparative verify carbon reduction. For
measurements between HVO indirect emissions, renewable
Holland designed, manufactured and

supported flash-butt welders have
been keeping railways around the
world moving for over 50 years
hollandco.com #HollandRail
ÖBB Infrastructure opened its first solar farm with shade for chickens this summer.

InnoTrans 2024 | sustainability
copper oils instead of creosote, particularly within railway
climate chamber aging tests, corridors. The drone is
and on-track evaluation. The equipped with AI technology
project engaged with the and is programmed to
timber industry and included navigate road and rail
investment in plant infrastructure. It is designed to
modernisation and staff provide information that will
training that have enhanced prevent collisions with
safety and efficiency, animals, improve response to
maintaining Bretenoux’s status natural disasters, and enhance
the largest sleeper infrastructure maintenance.
impregnation site in Europe. The drone supports meeting
Results show improved Sustainable Development
environmental impact, Goals (SDGs) by improving
odourless products, and efficiency, reducing emissions,
sustained performance, and conserving natural
Korail is using trains to transport electronic waste to recycling centres across the country. reinforcing the supply chain resources.
launched its first large open reduce greenhouse gas
landscape agri-PV site this emissions. The device
summer. Covering a total area collection initiative established
of about 14ha, the photo- a network of 50 recycling
voltaic power plant will centres across the country,
produce 100% CO₂-free which receive unwanted
traction power and is located laptops, monitors, TVs,
on an organic farm, raising domestic appliances, and
poultry and sheep as well as larger equipment such as
growing vegetables. ÖBB says ticket vending machines. The
it is a great example of project has saved more than
sustainable land use with 11,000kg of materials and
additional measures to more than 300,000kg of CO₂
enhance biodiversity, equivalent emissions. The
including the planting of fruit funds generated from the
trees, creation of wildflower project have been donated to
meadows amongst the solar local children’s charities.
panels, and the integration of a
regional wildlife corridor SNCF Network
consisting of a hedgerow of Green sleepers
rare bushes and trees.
SNCF Network has
Natural modernised the wooden
sleeper treatment process at Iran Railways is deploying AI-equipped drones to enhance infrastructure maintenance
Resources Bretenoux to improve
sustainability and maintain the
and improve how it responds to natural disasters.
Korail use of French oak in the

Establishment of electronic railway industry. As part of its and market connectivity. The
waste resource circulation commitment to conserving the wood used is 100% oak
certified under the Programme
Climate Change
Adaptation
system bio-sourced wooden sleeper,
SNCF has identified a reliable for the Endorsement of Forest
Korail partnered with a non- Certification (PEFC) and so
profit organisation to and effective way of
promotes domestic eco- Amtrak
implement a circular economy transitioning away from the
forestry but could be applied Climate design guidelines and
system that focuses on use of creosote. The initiative
worldwide with other wood certifications tree
recycling electronic waste to includes impregnation with
varieties equally viable. The
project, launched with a €10m Amtrak’s new Climate
investment, targets full Resilient Design Guidelines,
commissioning by early 2025. comprising a Design
Guidebook and third-party
rating decision tool, integrates
Iran Railways climate hazard considerations
Railway Smart Crisis and net-zero goals into capital
Management Robotic Drone projects from the start. The
guidelines enhance design
Iran Railways (RAI) has requirements to improve
deployed an intelligent reliability, safety, and
multipurpose robotic drone, efficiency, while aiding early
which integrates advanced decision-making for third-
technologies to address party certification such as
environmental and safety Leed and Envision. Amtrak
SNCF Network is committed to conserving bio-sourced wooden sleepers. challenges in transport, has already reduced

specific rolling stock and encouraging use of the 5D
infrastructure accessibility. approach - distract, delegate,
Following extensive accessible document, delay, and direct -
design testing, the end-to-end for anyone who might be
solution was launched in July. suffering from sexual
harassment. Ads appear on
Italian State Railways (FS) assets including train monitors,
Social campaign against sexual stations, ticket machines, buses
harassment in public places and stops, service areas along
streets, advertising panels and
FS has created a major websites. Campaign messages
enabling campaign against are also displayed on posters,
sexual harassment in public and during webinars and
places through education and training videos. IRJ
Nominees for other awards

SNCF Network is transitioning away from using creosote to preserve wooden sleepers.
Healthy Cities and Seamless Connectivity
greenhouse gas emissions by
22% from 2019 levels. Accessibility, Communities
Italo - Cardio-protected trains
National Capital Region
Transport, India - Delhi -
Introduction of the guidelines
and the decision tool reflects
Diversity and Korail - Establishment of a Meerut Regional Rapid
smart air quality management Transit System
Amtrak’s commitment to Inclusion system Italian Rail Network - A new
achieving net-zero emissions Pyramid of Mobility for
Amtrak
by 2045 and obtaining 100% of
Amtrak Gives Back
Modal Shift sustainable and seamless
its electric power from carbon- East Japan Railway - Freight connectivity at railway
free sources by 2030, along Amtrak Gives Back is a transport and supply chain stations in Lombardy
with implementing sustainable community engagement management projects
infrastructure practices. programme focused on People, Chilean Trains (EFE) - 30/30 To find out more go to
Preservation, and Protection, Plan: new commuter and https://uic.org/event/uic-
Norfolk Southern and the aiming to build lasting local services sustainability-awards/
Association of American partnerships and support
Railroads communities. It involves
Living Shoreline public outreach, supporting
non-profit organisations
Lamberts Point in Norfolk,
Virginia, is a key marine
through initiatives like On
Track for Good, and employee JOIN ENSCO RAIL AT
terminal for railways on the
east coast of the United States.
The terminal has faced flood
volunteering. The programme
offers complimentary tickets to
non-profit organisations, uses
INNOTRANS 2024!
risks due to erosion at the
Elizabeth River shoreline. To
combat this, Norfolk Southern
excess capacity efficiently, and
raises awareness of Amtrak
projects. Overall, it reflects
HALL 25, STAND 520
collaborated with the Elizabeth Amtrak’s commitment to
River Project to create a making a meaningful
sustainable living shoreline. contribution and positively
Around 1760m³ of sand, 24,000 impacting communities.
marsh plants, 1500m³ of stone
and 70m³ of oysters were used
Belgian National Railways
to remodel the shoreline,
(SNCB) SNCB Assist
helping to reduce erosion and
flood risk to this critical freight SNCB has developed a
terminal. The project provides collaborative mobile and web
additional water quality application for people with
benefits by reducing sediment, disabilities to book assistance,
improving river clarity and ensuring inclusivity. Designed
preventing nutrient run-off, as with input from stakeholders,
well as creating a new habitat including those with reduced
for birds and other wildlife. mobility, the app enables users
This nature-based solution not
only brought many
to select routes and track
assistance requests. Led by a SEE YOU IN BERLIN!
co-benefits, but it also cost half project manager with a severe
of the traditional hardened visual impairment, the app
structure methodology. There prioritises accessibility. Future
are plans to expand this enhancements will integrate
successful project by creating a station staff tools to improve
1.6ha offshore oyster reef and service during disruption,
wetland restoration area. with plans to include details of
IRJ September 2024
Industry Events
September 2024 www.railwayage.com/nextgen24 20-21—Riyadh, Saudi Arabia April 2025
18-19—Vienna, Austria Saudi Rail Exhibition & Conference 13-15—Graz, Austria
World of Freight Summit 21-22—Manila, Philippines 8 Terrapinn, Dubai, UAE. NEW: Modern Rolling Stock
8 World of Freight, Bratislava NEW: Philippines Rail 2024 www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/ Conference
Slovakia. 8 Bricsa, Mumbai, India. saudi-rail/ 8 Schienenfahrzeugtagung,
www.wofsummit.com https://philippinesrail.bricsacon Graz, Austria.
sulting.com/ 25-27—Gold Coast, Australia www.schienenfahrzeugtagung.at
20-22—Neumarkt, Germany AusRail /en/home-5
Monorailex 2024 Conference 22-23—Valenciennes, France 8 MCI, Brisbane, Australia.
8 International Monorail Assoc. HOF in Risk Management https://ausrail.com May 2025
Heimberg, Switzerland. Conference 6-8—Stockholm, Sweden
www.monorailex2024.org 8 ERA, Valenciennes, France. 26-27—Zaragoza, Spain Stockholmsmassan Train & Rail
www.era.europa.eu/content/ Rail Live Congress Fair
24-27—Berlin, Germany hof-risk-management-conference- 8 Terrapinn, London, Britain. 8 Stockholmsmassan,
InnoTrans Exhibition 2024-call-proposals www.terrapinn.com/conference/ Stockholm, Sweden.
8 Messe Berlin, Berlin, Germany. rail-live/index.stm www.trainrail.se
www.innotrans.de/en November 2024
6—Stockholm, Sweden December 2024 13-14—Johannesburg, South
October 2024 Scandinavian Rail Optimisation 18-20—Shanghai, China Africa
8-10—Abu Dhabi, UAE Conference Rail Transit Technology NEW: Africa Rail
Global Rail Transport 8 Rotaia Media, Ashford, Britain. Exhibition 8 Terrapin, Dubai, UAE.
Infrastructure Conference www.scandinavianrail.co.uk 8 Arts Expo, Shanghai, China. https://www.terrapinn.com/
8 DMG, Dubai, UAE. http://en.artsexpo.cn exhibition/africa-rail/index.stm
www.grtiec.com 6-8—Singapore
SITCE Transport Congress & March 2025 13-15—Birmingham, Britain
16-17—Auckland, New Zealand Exhibition 4-5—London, Britain Railtex Exhibition
New Zealand Rail 8 UITP, Brussels, Belgium. NEW: Transport Ticketing Global 8 RX Global, Richmond, Britain.
8 Informa, Sydney, Australia. www.sitce.org 8 Clarion, London, Britain. www.railtex.co.uk
www.informa.com.au/nzrail www.transport-ticketing.com/
12-13—Tallinn, Estonia 14-15—Cologne, Germany
17-18—Baltimore, MD, USA Intelligent Rail Summit 4-6—Johannesburg, South Africa NEW: The Rise of IoT & Big Data
NEW: Next-Gen Train Control 8 ProMedia, Rotterdam NEW: Transport Evolution Africa in Rail Conference
Conference The Netherlands. Forum & Expo 8 Rotaia Media, Ashford,
8 Simmons-Boardman https://events.railtech.com/ 8 DMG, Dubai, UAE. Britain.
Publishing Corp. Omaha, NE, USA. intelligent-rail-summit-2024 www.transportevolution.com/ https://iotandbigdatainrail.com/
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Contacts | editorial Fresh faces
46 Killigrew Street, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 3PP, UK
Mr Piotr Rachwalski has joined the management
Tel +44 1326 313945 board of Central Communication Port (CPK), the
company delivering Poland’s new hub airport and
Editor-in-Chief Kevin Smith MA [email protected] associated rail projects. A transport economist by
Consulting Editor/Associate Publisher training, he is founder and president of the Institute
David Briginshaw CMILT [email protected] for Railway Development and Promotion, and from
Deputy Editor Mark Simmons [email protected]
Associate Editor Robert Preston [email protected]
June 2014 to January 2019 was the president of
Production Manager Sue Morant [email protected] regional passenger operator Koleje Dolnośląskie.
Regional editors The board of directors of the California High-Speed

Australia Tony Duboudin [email protected] Rail Authority (CHSRA) has appointed Mr Ian
Chile Ian Thomson Newman [email protected] Choudri as CEO. He is currently senior vice-president
France David Haydock [email protected] at engineering consultancy HNTB and has over 30
Germany Keith Fender [email protected] years’ experience of the transport sector, including
Italy Marco Chiandoni Tel +39 347 4413235 [email protected] high-speed rail projects in France and Spain. Choudri
Japan Yoshihiko Sato Tel +81 3 5721 6616 [email protected] will succeed Mr Brian Kelly who is retiring as CEO
New Zealand Richard Worrall [email protected] after six years at CHSRA.
USA/Canada William C Vantuono Tel +1 212 620 7240
[email protected]
US Class 1 freight railway Norfolk Southern (NS) has
Correspondents appointed Mr Anil Bhatt as executive vice-president
and chief information and digital officer, reporting to
Asia Rashid Ali Israel Jeremaya Goldberg
NS president and CEO, Mr Alan Shaw. He joins the
Austria Erwin Reidinger Korea Andy Tebay
company from Elevance Health where he most
Brazil Renata Passos Netherlands Quintus Vosman
Denmark Denis Bowers Pakistan Rashid Ali
recently served as global chief information officer.
Eastern Europe Roma Nazarov Poland Mykola Zasiadko
Hungary Ferenc Joo Spain Miguel Bustos
India Srinand Jha Ukraine Alexander Kava
The government of New Zealand has appointed Mr
Executive offices Rob Jager as acting chair of national operator
KiwiRail, succeeding Mr David McLean, who has
Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corp retired after two and half years in the post.
1809 Capitol Avenue, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Tel +1 212-620-7200
President & Chairman A J McGinnis

Publisher, Rail Group Jonathan Chalon
Circulation Jo Ann Binz [email protected] Mr Fredric Håkansson has been appointed as
president and CEO of Dellner Couplers. He
previously headed the company’s Service Division
and had also been managing director of Dellner Italy
Contacts | advertising since 2016. Prior to joining Dellner, Håkansson held
senior sales and marketing positions at Faiveley
UK, France, Spain, Portugal, French-speaking Switzerland, Scandinavia, Finland, Transport.
Benelux, The Balkans, Kazakhstan
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Jerome Marullo, Business Development Manager
Tel +1 732 887 5562 [email protected]
4AI Systems 61 Plasser &Theurer FC
Austria, Germany, German-speaking Switzerland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia,
AZD Praha 60 Powerlines 49
Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia and Serbia. CAF 7 PowerRail 53
Simone and Simon Fahr,
Fahr Verlags + Presse Büro eK
CometReleco 39 Progress Rail IFC
Breitenbergstrasse 17, Füssen 87629, Germany Cummins 23 Renfe 43
Tel +49 8362 5074996 [email protected] Dromos 63 RSSB 17
Italy & Italian-speaking Switzerland Emil Frei 57 SAB Bröckskes 47
Dr Fabio Potestà,
Mediapoint & Communications srl, Corte Lambruschini, Enerpac 55 Siemens 5
Corso Buenos Aires 8, Vo Piano, Int 7, 16129 Genova, Italy Ensco 67
Tel +39 010 570 4948 Fax +39 010 553 0088 [email protected] Škoda 33
Goldschmidt Holding BC
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Katsuhiro Ishii, Ace Media Service Inc Holland 65
12-6, 4-chome, Nishiiko Adachi-ku, Tokyo 121-0824, Japan IRJ Pro 68 SŽ - Vleka 41
Tel +81 3 5691 3335 Fax +81 3 5691 3336 [email protected]
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Knorr Bremse 11 Traco Electronic 45
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Tel +1 212 620 7224 [email protected] Kontron 59 Ultimate Europe 15
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(Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) Linsinger 31 Voestalpine 13
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The last word | industry
Business development goals give Knorr-Bremse a real boost

Knorr-Bremse board member, Nicolas Lange, discusses the company’s market strategy with Kevin Smith.
K NORR-Bremse will
conclude the acquisition of
Alstom’s North American
perfectly with what Lange
describes as Knorr-Bremse’s
DNA: safety and mission-
However, Europe remains the
company’s “growth locomotive.”
manufacturers poised to supply
DAC. Lange says it has invested
In 2023, Lange says Knorr- heavily in both technology and
conventional signalling critical systems. He explains Bremse joined the wider the supply chain to prepare for
business on September 3. The that the company is actively industry in finally turning the series production. “You can
€630m deal was announced in developing new concepts corner on the inflation and imagine the huge amounts of
April and will mark Knorr- designed to guarantee braking high energy costs that have cast steel you need to buy to
Bremse’s entry into the distances that will help operators impacted performance in the produce DACs for 500,000
signalling market, becoming a to reduce headways, increasing post-Covid-19 years. Orders freight wagons,” he says.
key player in North America. network capacity. Signalling is and sales were up and this has However, the industry is waiting
On the face of it, signalling the ultimate determinant of continued into 2024 - revenue for the European Union (EU)
is not a natural fit for Knorr- line capacity, and moving into was up 2% to approximately to provide the necessary funding
Bremse, one of the global this space is a natural step for $US 4bn in the first half. (currently estimated at €11-13bn)
railway industry’s foremost Knorr-Bremse to take. Knorr-Bremse also appears to for the project to proceed -
suppliers of braking equipment In addition, Lange says there have recovered from exiting Lange says it could take two
as well as other rolling stock is significant potential for the the Russian market. years for production lines to be
components and systems. acquisition to open new “This really weakened the ready and this will not happen
However, the purchase is opportunities for customers by European business and is until support is assured.
consistent with the company’s harnessing data collected by another reason why we are Knorr-Bremse is also working
plan for growth, underscored signalling systems but not now doing things a little on developing new generations
by its Boost 2026 strategy, currently used. For example, differently,” Lange says. of its standard products,
announced in July 2023. providing a better understanding The positive climate in including electro-mechanical
Boost - Knorr-Bremse of rail temperature, an important Europe is reflected in strong braking systems, with Lange
Operational Optimisation consideration in North America spending on new fleets in big forecasting a shift away from
Strategy and Transformation - due to issues with rail elongation national markets such as compressed air in the coming
seeks to secure the supplier’s in extremely hot conditions. France and Germany, although years. He also expects further
global leadership of markets Britain remains depressed. progress with digitalisation,
and technologies as well as Lange adds that concerns that with Knorr-Bremse actively using
profitable growth. Targets Expansion European Union (EU) Green data to offer customers a better
include increasing revenue to Knorr-Bremse is not limiting Deal funding would only understanding of component
€8-9bn from €7.9bn in 2023, and its signalling ambitions to North benefit infrastructure have not and system performance.
achieving an Ebit margin of 14%. America and is eyeing expansion materialised, with almost equal While the uptake of
A focus on efficiency gains in other key markets such as investment in rolling stock. digitalisation in the rail sector
in the first phase of the plan Europe and Asia, in particular More money is inevitably as a whole has been slower than
included the disposal of Kiepe China, in the medium-term. required, notably for installing Lange expected, he is hopeful
Electric to investment company However, Lange says the ERTMS and retrofitting that the pace will quicken.
Heramba in February. As objective is not to compete with locomotive and wagons with This month’s InnoTrans is a
Knorr-Bremse board member, suppliers such as Alstom, Hitachi, the Digital Automatic Coupler perfect opportunity to gauge
Dr Nicolas Lange, admits, on Siemens or CAF, all customers (DAC), which Lange says has progress. “We are coming more
reflection, the company found of Knorr-Bremse, but to the potential to transform rail and more to the conclusion
it was not the best owner to remain a Tier 1 sub-supplier. freight in Europe. that data sharing is necessary,”
develop this business. “We “If we combine signalling Knorr-Bremse is one of four he says. IRJ
would probably have detected expertise with our braking
this a little earlier if we were expertise, and our digitalisation
following the benchmarks we expertise, then my expectation
“
are looking at now,” he says. is that we can make more out
Instead, Knorr-Bremse is of that for our customers in
considering acquisitions that the future,” Lange says.
add value to the company and North America is a key target Knorr-Bremse
its customers, have a strong for Knorr-Bremse, according to
technological base, and offer Lange. He is encouraged by is not limiting
the potential to transform the significant investment in rail
business. Alstom Signalling in general, spurred by the
its signalling
North America appears to fit Biden administration’s
the bill. It reported revenue of infrastructure investment policy.
ambitions
€300m and an Ebit margin of “Our expectation is that this to North
16% in 2023. Crucially, it will continue, irrespective of
possesses the largest installed who wins the election because America.
base of signalling, train detection most of this money is already
and level crossing technology committed,” he says.
in North America, as well as a Lange is also buoyant about
large share of the aftermarket. prospects in Asia, in particular
Signalling also correlates India’s ambitious spending plans.

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IRJ

September 2024 | Volume 64 Issue 9

ECM products provide customers with cutting-

Progress Rail has won over 500 km of new signaling

Discover how our ECM products

Post 46 Killigrew Street News

Business development manager 48 Depot shunting without drivers

International Railway Journal (Print ISSN 2161-7376,

COPYRIGHT © Simmons-Boardman Publishing

Today’s track maintenance is

IRJ September 2024 3

InnoTrans 2024: pressure to boost exports. While

9904-01_Innotrans-Ad-Overall_210x290_EN_240718-1.indd 1 18.07.24 12:00

Former Kansas City Southern Voith e-coupler selected as standard

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This year, Stadler will be unveiling eight

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Innovator. Pacemaker. Shaper of values.

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Competition helps boost Spanish high-speed traffic by 37% in 2023

12 IRJ September 2024

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Italian rail freight crisis looms Tunisia - Algeria

T HE recent political unrest

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Greater Tel Aviv Metro approved

New Zealand upgrades Wellington

C ALGARY City Council

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16 IRJ September 2024

The Rail Safety and Standards Board is the

Get your guide at rssb.co.uk/international

Alstom wins €4bn Cologne Amsterdam project in East Kowloon,

A LSTOM has been awarded

18 IRJ September 2024

Forced Air Heaters

Threshold & Door Pocket Heaters

a degree above | www.Thermon.com

Photo: Shutterstock/Dinesh Hukmani

F OLLOWING several train the provincial government.

20 IRJ September 2024

Talgo rejects Škoda merger offer Denmark

T ALGO has rejected a

22 IRJ September 2024

PKP Cargo appeals to government for rescue funding

P KP Cargo, the freight

says that this omits the

24 IRJ September 2024

Global railway market exceeds €200bn for the first time

26 © SCI Verkehr GmbH / www.sci.de / 08.08.2024 IRJ September 2024

Growth rate 2023-2028 (CAGR in %)

100 4% and are undergoing extensive

© SCI Verkehr GmbH / www.sci.de / 08.08.2024 operational benefits are much 3

DC/DC converters 3–200 W

Consulting and Engineering