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Rail Technology Magazine
Hitachi Rail Signs Framework Agreement
The framework agreement, which has also been signed by other companies, defines the scope of units allocated for various suppliers. Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail is guaranteed a significant portion of these units, providing the company with long-term planning security, enabling targeted investments, and supporting the development of additional resources and production capacities to execute current and future projects. “As a long-standing partner of Deutsche Bahn, we are delighted to be driving forward the urgently needed renovation and modernisation of the rail infrastructure in our country.” “This is not only crucial for a sustainable turnaround in transport in Germany, but also for a more efficient, pan-European rail network, to which we are making a decisive technological contribution.” “Last but not least, Deutsche Bahn's volume contract gives us as an industrial sector the long-awaited planning security for the preservation and expansion of our high-quality jobs in one of the world's most successful high-tech sectors that Germany has to offer. DB is thus securing the necessary investments for itself and Germany in the long term," says Markus Fritz, Chief Operation Officer at Hitachi Rail Germany and member of the VDB Executive Committee. The framework agreement establishes the foundation for all future digital interlocking projects in Germany. As only holders of such agreements are eligible to participate in the full-scale rollout of digital rail, this partnership positions Hitachi Rail as a key technology partner for Deutsche Bahn and its infrastructure division, DB InfraGo. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize Germany’s railway network, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting rail as a competitive alternative to other modes of transport. The contract was awarded following a tender process that began in July 2023, culminating in the signing on December 31, 2024. Beyond traditional control and signalling technology services, the agreement also includes additional tasks such as planning, civil engineering, and cable laying. This expansion of responsibilities underscores the complexity of the project, but with extensive experience and expertise, Hitachi Rail is well-positioned to deliver on these commitments. Image credit: Hitachi Rail Share this article
railway
Feb 13, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Unlocking The Future Of Rail: Alstom'S Game-Changing Contr...
The Electrostar trains will be used by the UK’s largest railway franchise on their Great Northern network, connecting London King’s Cross with Cambridge, Peterborough and King’s Lynn. The fleet was acquired by Porterbrook from Akiem in March 2024. As part of the variation contract under the current Technical Support and Spares Supply Agreement (TSSSA), Alstom has been providing both engineering and on-train technical support to ensure the first units could enter service as soon as possible. Their reactivation underscores the growing confidence in rail travel post-pandemic and the industry’s focus on delivering reliable, passenger-focused services. The Class 379 trains are also be the first GTR fleet to utilise Alstom’s HealthHub web-based platform that analyses and displays all the data captured by the train. Every 30 seconds, a train will send data on more than 200 parameters – everything from the speed of the train to the temperature inside the carriages, to the GPS coordinates that give its location. This provides real-time monitoring that alerts the team if there is anything wrong with the train or supports to prevent incidents happening in the future. “As part of our ongoing commitment to smart and sustainable rail solutions, Alstom is delighted to support the reactivation of the Class 379 fleet. This project exemplifies the importance of collaboration within the rail industry to enhance capacity and experience for the fare-paying passenger, while optimising the use of existing assets,” said Peter Broadley, Commercial Director UK and Ireland at Alstom. The first trains entered service on Monday 10 February (379002 and 379022) and will initially be used on a number of Great Northern services to and from Letchworth Garden City. Several new roles are being supported by the variation contract, with work being carried out at existing Alstom sites, including its historic Crewe Works. Home to Alstom’s UK Centre of Excellence for Bogie and Traction Motor Overhaul, the Crewe facility has overhauled over 20,000 bogies – which house the train’s wheelsets – during the past ten years for the UK rail market. The site is now be responsible for overhauling the Class 379 bogies, alongside heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units for the GTR trains. “We’re pressing on with this work to improve services for passengers. These trains will be used primarily on Great Northern longer distance routes such as between King’s Lynn, Ely, Cambridge, Peterborough and King’s Cross,” said Shakeel Mamanji, Rolling Stock Contracts Manager at GTR. He added: “In some places, this will provide extra services to meet an increase in demand post-COVID. In others, they will release existing Class 387 trains to work with both overhead and third rail power, to support passenger services across the southeast.” The original TSSSA was signed between Alstom and GTR in October 2022 for around £256 million, with a duration that aligns with the length of the operator’s National Rail Contract. This saw Alstom continue to support the Derby-built Class 377 and Class 387 Electrostar fleets in operation on Southern, Gatwick Express and Great Northern services into London’s Victoria and King’s Cross stations. “I’m delighted that more of our Electrostars are entering service with GTR. When we acquired the fleet from Akiem last year we were confident that they would be perfectly suited to GTR’s requirements, and it’s excellent to see them back out on the network to serve passengers for many more years to come,” said Stefan Rose, Chief Investment Officer at Porterbrook. Alstom has been a long-term trusted partner to GTR, having already serviced the fleets for over 20 years with a 35-strong project team. Along with Alstom’s unique material supply facility in Brighton, Alstom and GTR teams located across the operator’s four major depots in Battersea, Brighton, Hornsey and Selhurst continue to work together to support a total fleet of 1,342 cars and ensure the highest standards of train availability, reliability and safety for some of the UK’s busiest commuter routes. The 30, four-car Class 379 electric multiple units (EMUs) – known as Electrostars – were built by Alstom at its Derby Litchurch Lane Works between 2010 and 2011, and originally served passengers between London Liverpool Street and Kings Lynn via Stansted Airport and Cambridge until 2022. Under GTR, the trains will now operate out of their Hornsey depot. Alstom is the market leader in rail services, supporting customers over the entire asset lifecycle with the broadest portfolio of services solutions. Alstom’s FlexCare Perform maintenance services are tailored to customer needs and operational requirements, from technical support with spares to fully outsourced maintenance solutions. Alstom maintains over 35,500 vehicles worldwide and is a trusted partner for servicing both Alstom and non-Alstom rail assets. Image credits: Govia Thameslink Railway Share this article
railway
Feb 12, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Glasgow – Paisley Line Improvements: Hillington West Platf...
Both 190m long platforms have reached the end of their life and will be demolished and rebuilt, with improved surfacing and drainage. Work begins on Sunday 16 February, with Platform 1 being closed for just over three months, reopening on 18 May. Engineers will then start work on Platform 2, which will close between 18 May and 17 August. While this vital improvement work takes place, passengers are being asked to use the nearby Hillington East station. Ashley McDonald, scheme project manager for Network Rail Scotland, said: “This vital work to renew worn-out infrastructure that’s reached the end of its life will help us to run a safe and reliable railway.” “We know there’s never a good time to close a station platform, and we’re grateful to passengers and our neighbours for their patience while this vital improvement work takes place.” A £1.75m project to rebuild Platform 1 at Alexandra Parade station is already underway and includes the installation of new lighting and CCTV. Work is due to be completed there in May 2025. Image credit: Network Rail Share this article
railway
Feb 12, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Tru Seeks Programme Partner
The TRU initiative adopts a whole-industry operating model, uniting all stakeholders into a cohesive team with a shared goal of improving transportation and communities in Northern England. This collaborative approach dissolves traditional barriers between partners, including Network Rail, the Department for Transport, train operating companies, routes, and project delivery teams, collectively known as Team TRU. TRU seeks a programme partner to join forces with Network Rail, forming a high-performing, integrated programme delivery team. This team will work towards common objectives under a unified management plan. Key aspects of the integrated team’s roles include: Due to the extensive nature of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), the programme partner will need to offer resources across several critical areas. These areas include project management, programme integration, data analytics, schedule monitoring, risk management, and strategic advisory/leadership. The TRU project spans over 70 miles of railway, serving 23 stations, crossing 285 bridges and viaducts, passing through six miles of tunnels, and navigating 29 level crossings. Jo Griffiths, TRU Programme Director, said: “TRU is really moving ahead now with over 90% of the programme in design and delivery". “People can see the work across our route each day and a programme partner is key in helping us deliver our goals on this transformative programme for train travel across the north.” In last year’s Autumn budget, the chancellor Rachel Reeves, committed to electrification in full for the TRU from York to Manchester. The first part of line to run electric train services is now up and running between Manchester Victoria and Stalybridge with plans for further electrification at Holgate near York later this year. The pre-qualification questionnaire period is now open and will close on Wednesday 5 March. For further information, please visit https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/003505-2025 Image credit: Network Rail Share this article
railway
Feb 12, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Alstom Completes One Of Europe’S Largest Level 1 Etcs Inst...
Spanning approximately 120km, this system overlay integrates new safety features and enhanced interoperability across the entire Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) commuter network and beyond, from Dundalk in the north to Greystones in the south. The project, which has supported more than 50 roles globally – from the design stage in early 2022 to site testing in late 2024 – represents one of Europe’s largest Level 1 ETCS installations. Delivered in partnership with Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), this achievement reinforces Alstom’s commitment to delivering reliable, efficient and safe rail solutions that are tailored to Ireland’s needs. “The completion of the Dundalk to Greystones ETCS Level 1 project is a testament to our technical expertise and commitment to enhancing rail safety and efficiency in Ireland. This landmark achievement lays the foundation for the future of Irish rail, ensuring safer, smarter and greener transport for passengers,” said Piers Wood, Managing Director for Ireland at Alstom. He added: “Our teams have worked tirelessly to deliver this milestone, and we are all proud to support Ireland’s journey towards a modernised, sustainable rail network.” Central to the railway’s digital future, ETCS is a train control standard, based on in-cab equipment that is able to supervise train movements, including stopping the train. Information is received from balises in between the rails, of which more than 1,200 were installed as part of the work between Dundalk and Greystones. Equipment – including 337 signals – was provided from Alstom’s globally-proven trackside portfolio, with more than 450 Micro-Coder lineside electronic units (LEUs) overlayed on legacy equipment to provide enhanced safety and minimise disruption. All equipment was configured, installed and tested in one year between October 2024 and November 2024. An IÉ 22000 Class – 22001 – was fitted out as the trial train. Safety was paramount throughout and the project completed without a lost time incident (LTI). This transformational project is currently undergoing safety approvals with Iarnród Éireann and the Commission for Railway Regulation. Once operational, it will support the introduction of Ireland’s next-generation fleet for the DART+ network. Alstom has a ten-year framework agreement with Irish Rail for up to 750 new commuter rail cars as part of the DART+ programme, with firm orders for 37 five-car X’trapolis trains (including a 15-year support services contract). Currently being manufactured at Alstom’s Chorzów facility near Katowice in Poland, 31 of the ordered trains are Battery Electric Multiple Units (BEMUs) – a first for Ireland – while six are Electric Multiple Units (EMUs). The first train from the fleet arrived in Dublin in November 2024, where it is undergoing testing before entering service next year. DART+ is the transformative programme that will ensure train travel is at the heart of Ireland’s sustainable transport network. Funded under the National Development Plan by the National Transport Authority, DART+ is an investment that will double the capacity and treble the electrification of the Greater Dublin network – Ireland’s most populous suburban area – facilitating sustainable mobility and development to enhance quality of life in the capital and its surrounding counties. Image credit: Alstom Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Foundations Complete For Hs2'S Old Oak Common High Speed S...
The 850-metre-long underground station base, which will house six platforms for high-speed trains, has been constructed using 76,000 cubic metres of concrete and 17,000 tonnes of reinforced steel. The base slab covers 45,000 square metres - equivalent to more than six football pitches - and reaches nearly two metres thick at its deepest point. Construction began in April 2023 and required 91 separate concrete pours to complete. The station is being built by Balfour Beatty Vinci SYSTRA joint venture (BBVS). At peak construction, the base slab works employed up to 50 steel fixers and 20 joiners, supported by a team of engineers. The completion of the base slab represents an important milestone in creating this major new transport superhub for London and the UK. When complete, the station will be one of the best connected in the UK, with the six underground platforms allowing high-speed services to reach central London in one direction and the West Midlands in the other, with services running further north via the existing railway. Additionally, eight surface-level platforms are being constructed to provide an interchange to the Great Western Railway, Elizabeth Line and Heathrow Express. HS2’s Project Client for Old Oak Common, Peter Gow, said: “Completing the base slab of the underground station box is a key milestone in building HS2’s new super hub station in West London. This is the final stage in completing the foundations for the high-speed station, and will be where HS2 tracks are laid, platforms are constructed and the station building and roof and built above. “At Old Oak Common we are making significant progress in building this state of the art, environmentally friendly, transport hub which will be a key part of the HS2 route.” The excavation of the box was completed in the summer of 2024 with sub-contractor Expanded removing 1.3 million tonnes of London clay. To create the base slab, the team installed blinding, layers of shingle for drainage before a matt could be laid on top. Then a 1.85 metre high reinforcement layer was installed– with the team fixing the steel by hand. Finally, concrete was poured to compete the slab, competing the foundations for the high-speed station area of Old Oak Common. London Concrete, part of the Holcim Group, has supplied the concrete used to complete the base slab from a dedicated batching plant on site. Over 90% of the concrete used for the base slab was manufactured on site, reducing lorry movements and CO2 emissions. In addition, low carbon ECOPact concrete has been used, contributing to the drive to reduce carbon used in construction. Measures such as this, as well as the innovative design, have contributed to the station being recognised as BREAAM outstanding, putting it in the top 1% of environmentally friendly buildings in the UK. Steve O’Sullivan, Project Director for Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA, joint venture said: “With the completion of the base slab, we have achieved another significant milestone at Old Oak Common. “ In less than two years, we have carried out 91 concrete pours of between 600m3 and 1 000m3 each. Logistically, this has been a huge undertaking, requiring detailed planning and collaboration between HS2, Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA and our supply chain partners. "This latest step will enable us to progress to the next phase of works, with construction of the high-speed platforms already underway”. Work is now underway on the six HS2 service platform with wall frameworks being installed ready for concrete pouring. The high-speed platform slabs are currently being manufactured by Explore in Worksop and installation will begin this spring. The team are also working above the base slab to construct the ground floor level of the station before the superstructure can be built, creating the vibrant station environment. Tunnelling work to connect the station to the HS2 network is being done by HS2’s London tunnels contractor, Skanska Costain STRABAG JV. In the eastern section of the box, the team are preparing to launch two giant tunnelling machines towards Euston. In the western side of the box, the team will excavate the tunnel using the sprayed concrete lining method. Old Oak Common station in West London is being built on land previously used for railways depots. The site sits between the Elizabeth Line depot and Great Western Mainline which is being realigned so Elizabeth Line, Great Western Mainline and Heathrow Express trains can call at the station providing unrivalled connectivity. Image credits: HS2 Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Atkinsréalis Leads Design Integration For Transpennine Rou...
Under an eight-year Lead Design Organisation (LDO) framework, AtkinsRéalis will provide critical integration and design services to Network Rail including engineering management, design integration, schedule integration, BIM and survey management - spanning from design through to construction. This will involve strengthening up to 40 bridges, 62km of track renewals, and remodelling four stations, among other work. The TRU programme is a multi-billion-pound railway project that will improve passenger connections and sustainable travel in the North of England between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. Alejandro Moreno Moya, AtkinsRéalis Market Director, Rail & Transit, said: “The Transpennine Route Upgrade is an ambitious project which is making strong progress and transforming rail connections across the North. “Stalybridge to Huddersfield is a backbone section of the TRU and, as with the wider programme, will require close collaboration among numerous suppliers.” This appointment is a strong recognition of our ability to integrate the supply chain in complex rail projects and builds on our ongoing involvement in the wider TRU. The TRU will unlock a range of growth opportunities for people in the North and we look forward to working with Network Rail to deliver a lasting legacy with more reliable, sustainable and efficient rail.” AtkinsRéalis is currently supporting multiple TRU areas including rail systems design through the Central Rail Systems Alliance, environmental and consents work, and digital integration and business transformation. This includes ongoing delivery of the Transport and Works Act (TWAO) for the Huddersfield to Westtown (Dewsbury) section, after previously supporting Network Rail with its submission of the TWAO in 2021. AtkinsRéalis has also previously supported Network Rail with the Leeds station capacity improvements and York Area Capacity Project. Stalybridge to Huddersfield (route section W2BC) falls under TRU Central and is currently being surveyed by specialist teams to gather comprehensive information about the area before work commences. This will ensure a detailed understanding of the route's characteristics and potential challenges. Image credits: AtkinsRéalis Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Transforming Northolt: Step-Free Access And New Features
Located on the West Ruislip branch of the Central line, Northolt will soon provide step-free access from street to platform, with boarding ramps available to assist passengers with accessibility needs. This project, funded by TfL, is slated for completion by summer 2026. The commencement of work at Northolt follows similar developments at Leyton Tube station. Additionally, design efforts are underway at various locations across London to increase the number of step-free stations on the TfL network, aligning with the Mayor’s ambitious goal of making 50 percent of Tube stations step-free. Stuart Harvey, Chief Capital Officer at Transport for London, said: "Northolt Tube station becoming step-free will benefit thousands of customers in the area and make the station more accessible for those using it.” "We will continue to work at pace to identify where step-free schemes can make a difference to our customers, and work with partners to deliver those schemes. Northolt station will remain open during these works, and we will work with contractors to ensure we minimise any disruption to our neighbours while this crucial construction work is completed." Ealing Council leader, Peter Mason, said: "It’s great to see that this work is back on track after the pandemic. It will make such a big difference to people in Northolt, especially those with mobility issues, parents with pushchairs, carers and older residents. This is a significant step forward towards making public transport in our community fairer and accessible to all." Bassam Mahfouz, London Assembly Member for Ealing and Hillingdon, said: "Northolt is an incredibly busy station and local residents deserve the right to have an accessible platform to connect them into central London and beyond. I was delighted to gain the commitment previously. Now with COVID out of the way, it's full steam ahead to open up the station to parents with buggies, shoppers, the elderly and disabled, really putting Northolt on the map." During the ongoing construction, the width of the island platform will be temporarily reduced due to fencing around the work areas. To ensure passenger safety during peak hours, station staff will be present on the platform. TfL will keep residents and local representatives informed with regular updates as the project progresses. Northolt Tube station is part of the Superloop SL9 route, connecting Heathrow to Harrow. The addition of step-free access at Northolt will provide new travel options for those heading to Heathrow Airport via the fully step-free Superloop services. Currently, over a third of Underground stations in the capital are step-free, and TfL is committed to increasing this number to create a more accessible and inclusive transport network. The improvement project at Northolt was delayed in 2020, necessitating new analysis and design before work could resume. As part of the project, the existing public toilets will close in April 2025, with new, accessible facilities set to open upon the project's completion. Image credit: Transport for London Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Spatial Design Hub: Driving Innovation In Rail And Transpo...
At Spatial Design Hub, we specialise in creating customised geospatial solutions that transform how transport networks and urban environments are planned and managed. Our expertise in Geographical Information System (GIS), data analytics, and digital mapping enables us to deliver powerful tools that help clients make data-driven decisions. Whether it’s unlocking insights into passenger movements, rail demand forecasting, or urban accessibility, we build intuitive digital platforms that turn complex datasets into actionable intelligence. One of our most significant contributions to the transport sector is Rail Journey Insights, a pioneering analytics platform developed in collaboration with Network Rail. This tool is revolutionising how operators, planners, and policymakers interact with rail data, providing them with clear, visual, and accessible insights to optimise the GB rail network. The UK’s rail network is a complex, ever-evolving system that requires robust data analytics to optimise operations, enhance passenger experience, and improve service delivery. Rail Journey Insights, a cutting-edge analytics platform, is transforming how industry professionals access and utilise transport data. By making complex rail modelling data accessible and actionable, this powerful tool is driving smarter, more efficient decision-making for the sector. What is Rail Journey Insights? Rail Journey Insights is an advanced dashboard and analytics platform that provides a detailed overview of the GB rail network, offering key insights into: By integrating vast datasets into an intuitive, easy-to-use interface, Rail Journey Insights empowers both technical and non-technical users to explore real-time and historical data, enabling informed strategic planning. A Game-Changer for Rail Planning and Operations Traditionally, accessing and interpreting rail transport data required specialist knowledge and technical expertise. Rail Journey Insights simplifies this process by offering interactive visualisations, scenario testing, and demand forecasting tools, allowing users to: The platform has been designed to support a range of users, including: For more information contact Shravan Patel from Network Rail: [email protected] Beyond Rail: Spatial Design Hub’s Broader Expertise While Rail Journey Insights is at the forefront of our rail analytics solutions, Spatial Design Hub also delivers geospatial intelligence across a variety of urban mobility and transport planning projects. We work extensively with local authorities, urban planners, and developers, providing insights into pedestrian movement, connectivity, and liveability through advanced GIS analysis. Our flagship Urban Access platform enables planners to assess Public Transport Accessibility Levels (PTAL), identify transport deserts, and understand multimodal connectivity, helping shape smarter, more sustainable urban environments. Through custom-built digital platforms, GIS pedestrian models, and in-depth data analytics, we help cities: How Spatial Design Hub Can Support Your Organisation At Spatial Design Hub, we combine our expertise in GIS, transport analytics, and digital solutions to help organisations across the rail industry, transport sector, and built environment make better decisions. Whether you need a custom analytics platform, advanced geospatial insights, or expert consultancy services, our team is ready to support you. We work with train operators, transport authorities, local councils, and urban planners to deliver solutions that enhance mobility, connectivity, and infrastructure planning. Our tailored approach ensures that our clients receive practical, data-driven tools designed to address their specific challenges. If you’d like to discuss how Spatial Design Hub can support your organisation, get in touch with us to set up a call. Visit www.spatialdesignhub.com to learn more about our services and solutions. Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Wales' £800M Rail Overhaul: New Trains, Modern Comforts, A...
More than 50% of brand-new trains are now running on the Wales and Border lines with more coming down the tracks this year. The new trains, many made in Wales, are part of the Welsh Government’s £800m investment to transform rail services in Wales. Offering increased capacity, improved seating, modern air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi and up-to-the minute passenger travel information screens, customers are already reaping the benefits of these improvements. As a result, two thirds of passenger journeys in Wales are now on new and improved trains. Speaking on a visit to the CAF depot where some of the brand-new trains are made, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “This is a significant milestone on our mission to transform our railways.” “These brand-new, modern trains are transforming passenger experiences on Wales and the Border lines with faster and more frequent services thanks to our unprecedented £800 million investment. “The future for rail in Wales is looking bright and I’m excited to bring you more good news as we continue to bring more and more new trains into service and encourage more people back on the train.” Image credit: Welsh Government Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
How Ai Tech Is Transforming Network Rail'S Monitoring Flee...
This critical asset information will also be shared with rolling stock suppliers, supporting Southeastern's goal of acquiring new or upgraded trains for Metro routes. Steve White, MD of Southeastern, said: “To support growing demand, provide better performance and, crucially, improve accessibility, Southeastern are seeking a new (or upgraded) fleet of trains to deliver our Metro services. Cordel will deploy its automated LiDAR capture and AI-processing services to deliver up-to-date, accurate measurements of our Station Platforms which vary in height and curvature. Cordel’s AI makes sense of large volumes of data and quickly, getting insight into the hands of the South East Alliance, rolling stock bidders and Network Rail operations and maintenance teams.” Network Rail's Infrastructure Monitoring (NR-IM) fleet plays a crucial role in collecting vital asset condition data. This data helps determine the optimal timing for asset interventions, ensuring railway safety and minimising disruption for customers. For the installation of new technology, Cordel selected Loram, known for their expertise in maintaining the NR-IM fleet in Derby. Loram efficiently scheduled the installations during existing vehicle maintenance downtimes, seamlessly integrating multiple technologies without missing any data-gathering shifts. Jason Saxon, Network Rail Director Asset Information, said: “This was a great opportunity to use the existing IM Fleet and its existing recording paths, in conjunction with some proven and easy to fit technology from Cordel, selected by our industry partners in South Eastern, to obtain data they needed to procure the next generation of rolling stock in Kent and ultimately improve the passenger experience. At the same time, Network Rail engineers get the same information to help us better manage the rail infrastructure.” Rebeka Sellick, Business Development Director at Cordel, said: “We are enormously proud to have led and underwritten this deployment of our low maintenance but highly sophisticated AI-supported technology on Network Rail’s Infrastructure Monitoring Fleet. One pass on any fitted train along the railway at up to 100mph enables us to collect raw data across the rail corridor (and several metres beyond) that we can turn into measured outputs. We are delighted that the Network Rail Technical Authority has already approved our measurements for asset engineers to rely on.” Cordel's autonomous 'Wave 32' hardware was installed by Loram just above the driving cabs on two existing NR-IM vehicles (DBSOs 9702 & 9703). This enhancement allows the specialized fleet to collect more comprehensive data during its regular operations. As the IM Fleet moves across the rail network, Cordel's AI-supported geo-location systems capture detailed track position measurements, including cant, curvature, and track centrelines. Cordel processes this "Point Cloud" data to meet Network Rail's stringent requirements for structure gauging, track intervals, electrification contact wire positions, and station platform measurements. Additionally, it measures profiles and volumes of trackside vegetation and ballast. The resulting asset information is timestamped with date, time, and precise location references, then automatically uploaded to the Cordel Cloud via 4G WiFi. From there, it can be quickly shared with Network Rail's asset engineers and their Train Operating Company customers. Image credits: Cordel Share this article
railway
Feb 11, 2025
Rail Technology Magazine
Britain'S Railways To Recruit 2,000 Apprentices In 2025
A diverse range of one to four-year apprenticeships will be available for individuals of all backgrounds and ages, whether they are entering the workforce for the first time or seeking to retrain for a new career. Opportunities are being offered by employers across the UK rail industry, including Network Rail, train and freight operators, manufacturers, and the rail supply chain. The roles span various fields such as engineering, finance, train driving, sustainability, IT, human resources, customer service, and operations. This initiative supports National Apprenticeship Week and aligns with the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, celebrated through Railway 200 – a year-long program designed to attract the next generation of pioneering talent. The recruitment and training efforts aim to create a more digitally driven, sustainable railway and nurture the next generation of rail professionals, helping to develop essential new skills within the industry. Apprenticeships offer a combination of on-the-job learning and study, and are open to both young people and adult learners. The railway industry is committed to becoming more representative of the society it serves, striving to attract more women, people from ethnic minorities, and those with neurodiversity. Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive Officer of Rail Delivery Group, said: “Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity for people to start their careers in a variety of roles in rail. The rail industry plays a vital role in connecting communities and supporting the economy, and we need a diverse range of skills and perspectives to create the workforce of the future. “As we celebrate the railway’s rich heritage, we’re looking to the future, investing in our people to help us deliver the high-quality, innovative service that passengers expect.” Rail Minister Lord Hendy said: “From personal experience I know how rewarding a career in the rail industry is. It is brilliant to see so many opportunities available, from roles for those wanting to start their careers to people keen to learn new skills and develop, in a fast-paced and exciting sector. "The railways have a long history of innovation and Railway 200 represents the perfect opportunity to look to the future and inspire the next generation. I encourage everyone looking for a new challenge to discover how they can use their unique skills and talents to help build the railways of the future.” Neil Robertson, Chief Executive Officer of the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR), said, “These are good apprenticeships, mostly in skills shortage disciplines, that are recognised all around the world. We are looking for committed people from a wide range of backgrounds to fill them.” Those who wish to explore opportunities within rail can find out more about the apprenticeships that are available across the industry via the Routes into Rail website. Roles are also advertised on the Network Rail website and by individual train operating companies. Image & Video credit: HS2 Share this article
railway
Feb 10, 2025