Siemens Mobility, a global leader in the railway industry, has won awards in the categories of M&A, Product Launches, and Investment in the 2024 Railway Technology Excellence Awards, which highlight the company’s strategic initiatives, commitment to innovation, and substantial investments in the railway industry.
The Railway Technology Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the railway industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry.
Siemens Mobility won the M&A award for its acquisition of Optrail, enhancing its Train Planning System with advanced optimization algorithms. The Product Launches award was secured through the introduction of the Mireo Smart electric train, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and efficient rail transport solutions. The Investment award stems from the development of a new, technologically advanced rail manufacturing facility in Lexington, North Carolina, signifying a major investment in the future of North American rail infrastructure.
Siemens Mobility enhances train planning with Optrail acquisition
Siemens Mobility’s strategic acquisition of Optrail represents a significant enhancement to its software solutions for rail operations. Optrail, a company with expertise in the application of quantitative decision sciences to transport and logistics, brings a new dimension to Siemens Mobility’s Train Planning System (TPS) with its advanced optimization algorithms for Traffic Management Systems (TMS).
The integration of Optrail’s technology is set to advance rail traffic management by enabling real-time conflict resolution and automated network-wide dispatching. This is a move away from the traditional sequential meet and pass planning, towards a system that can process operational adjustments within seconds, thereby significantly reducing delays and increasing the average speed of trains. Optrail’s technology is already in use by a major North American rail and network operator, where it has demonstrated substantial operating improvements.
Frank Gerken, COO Siemens Mobility Software and Head of Business Segment Train Planning System, emphasized the value of this acquisition, stating that the combination of Optrail’s mathematical approach with Siemens Mobility’s existing TPS.live product will greatly enhance the efficiency of rail operations. The potential for preventing conflicts in real-time and connecting with higher automation systems, such as Automatic Train Operation, is expected to deliver significant customer value.
The launch of Mireo Smart electric train
Siemens Mobility launched the Mireo Smart electric train in response to the evolving needs of the transportation landscape and the increasing preference for rail mobility. The Mireo Smart is designed to cater to the requirements of regional and commuter rail operators, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for modern rail transport.
The Mireo Smart’s design is focused on environmental benefits, with a seating capacity of 214 and provisions for bicycles and wheelchairs, reflecting Siemens Mobility’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive transportation.
The Mireo Smart’s launch is complemented by the Mireo Plus B battery trains, which Siemens Mobility is supplying for Hessische Landesbahn’s pilot project. These trains are designed to operate with lower noise levels and zero exhaust emissions, serving as a replacement for diesel trains and contributing to cleaner, more sustainable rail networks. The Mireo Plus B trains are equipped with pantographs for operation under catenaries and batteries for non-electrified routes, showcasing Siemens Mobility’s innovative approach to flexible and eco-friendly rail solutions.
Siemens Mobility’s investment in new US rail factory
Siemens Mobility’s investment in a new rail manufacturing and services facility in Lexington, North Carolina, is a significant development for the company and the industry. The $220 million investment will establish a state-of-the-art factory that is anticipated to create over 500 new jobs, positioning Siemens Mobility as a key player in the North American rail manufacturing sector.
The Lexington facility will be the first to combine locomotive and passenger coach overhauls in one location, offering a comprehensive range of services to meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. The factory will feature advanced technologies such as robotic welding, 3D printing, and virtual reality welder training, which are expected to enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality.
The company has invested $3 billion in US manufacturing expansions and M&A activities over the past four years, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and growth in the rail industry. The Lexington factory, with its carbon-neutral operations, aligns with Siemens Mobility’s environmental objectives and is expected to play a pivotal role in the production of sustainable passenger trains for North America.
The groundbreaking of the Lexington facility is a milestone for Siemens Mobility, reinforcing its dedication to modernizing transportation infrastructure and contributing to the economic development of the region. The facility is strategically located in a commerce hub with easy access to transportation and a skilled workforce, ensuring its success and longevity in the industry.
Company Profile
Siemens Mobility is at the forefront of transforming the railway industry with innovative technology designed to enhance everyday life for all. In an era where transport providers face significant challenges in efficiently moving more passengers and goods, Siemens Mobility empowers its global clientele to adopt sustainable mobility solutions. As a leading technology firm, it excels in integrating the physical and digital realms within rail operations. Through an open ecosystem, the company seamlessly combines rolling stock, rail infrastructure, services, and software, delivering sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective rail transport solutions. By collaborating closely with customers and partners, Siemens Mobility ensures the efficient movement of people and goods, driving a new era of mobility for everyone.
Contact Details
Otto-Hahn-Ring 6
81739 München-Perlach
Germany
E-mail: contact.mobility@siemens.com
Phone: +49 (89) 3803 5491
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