Intelligent Transport Podcast

A new Transport Committee enquiry will be focussing on how the Government can ensure the stability of the pipeline for rail improvement projects across the UK looking into the new year. 

The enquiry believes that establishing clear investment pipelines may help end the turbulent years of boom and bust in the rail supply industry and give more certainty to passengers, workers, suppliers and investors about priorities for developing the network’s assets and services.   

Commenting on the announcement Railway Industry Association Chief Executive Darren Caplan said, “It is good news that the Transport Select Committee has announced today (17 December) it will investigate supporting the railway industry by, in particular, seeking ways to stop ‘boom and bust’ investment cycles which have held back the railway supply sector’s efforts to build a better UK rail in recent years. We congratulate the Committee for committing to examine and take this agenda forward, solutions to which will benefit not just the industry, but rail users, the Government, and also taxpayers.

“Boosting network performance for rail customers – both passengers and freight – is the key issue in rail for 2025 and the Railway Industry Association (RIA) has for several years highlighted the critical role suppliers play in helping rail clients around the UK including Network Rail and Transport for London achieve this. RIA and our members now urge the Committee’s inquiry to not only call for a stable and certain pipeline of projects in the short-term, but to also seek clarity on longer-term enhancements and other procurements, so that together we can deliver the world-class UK railway we are all seeking to build in the months and years to come.”

Recent months have seen announcements that business will continue at some companies that manufacture rolling stock, and the Government recommitting in its Autumn Statement to electrifying railways and building new lines. 

But the cross-party Committee’s new inquiry will examine how investment pipelines could put the rail supply and manufacturing sector – along with thousands of jobs in its supply chains – on a safer, more sustainable footing. 

A September 2024 survey of rail suppliers showed nearly all seeing a hiatus in work, being unsure of future investment streams, and many considering shifting focus to other markets or making redundancies. 

Find out more about the investigation here.

It also outlines how the government will rebuild and reform local government, as the foundation for devolution, reset the relationship between central and local government, and give communities stronger tools to shape the future of their local areas, while improving accountability and building capacity across the local government sector.

This week the Railway Industry Association (RIA) Chief Executive, Darren Caplan, commented on the Devolution White Paper: “Transport is a key priority for national and regional leaders throughout the UK. As local rail infrastructure and services become more devolved, the commitment announced today by the UK Government that English regional Metro Mayors will have a new framework to provide a more co-ordinated and enhanced approach is welcome.

“Transport for London and the Manchester Bee Network are two examples of strong leadership, delivering integrated transport systems with models which could be rolled out more widely across England. RIA’s Nations & Regions network already has close relationships with Combined Authorities around the country, and so we look forward to continuing to work closely with the Metro Mayors as they take on a new statutory role in governing, managing, planning and developing their local and regional rail networks.”

Read the Devolution White Paper here.

The inauguration of the train was attended by distinguished guests, including the Minister of Transport Martin Kupka, CEO of the Czech Railways Michal Krapinec, the Governor of the Moravian-Silesian Region Josef Bělica and Tomáš Ignačák, Vice-Chairman of Škoda Group.

“Our new battery train is a technological milestone that continues our long tradition of innovation in transport. Already in the 1930s – at a time when most people were just beginning to think about similar technologies – we produced the first battery locomotive,” said Tomáš Ignačák, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors at Škoda Group. “We have built on these foundations in modern times – from battery-powered trams to trolleybuses to this train. It is another step on the road to environmentally friendly, flexible, and sustainable transport and proof that Czech industry can be at the forefront of innovation. Passengers can look forward to a comfortable ride on a modern vehicle. Low floor boarding with wide doors, space for orthopaedic wheelchairs, prams and bicycles, a spacious toilet and, of course, Wi-Fi or sockets for charging small electronics,” he added.

“The Czech railway is undergoing a qualitative change, which includes the deployment of modern vehicles on more lines. Increasing comfort and reducing journey times is often not possible without electrification. Not everywhere, however, it is possible to electrify the lines in the foreseeable future or, for example, due to the natural environment around the tracks, the power lines cannot be easily located; and this is where there is a place for battery trains,” said Martin Kupka, Minister of Transport of the Czech Republic.

Battery train: the new standard for regional rail transport

The battery unit from Škoda Group is the first train of its kind not only in the Czech Republic, but also in the history of the Czech railway industry. This modern train is based on the platform of the proven RegioPanters, which are already successfully serving in most regions of the Czech Republic and abroad. The battery train is equipped with advanced LTO batteries, which enable operation even on non-electrified lines.

The batteries are charged from both the DC and AC mains, with a full charge taking just 25-30 minutes depending on the voltage type. The train can travel up to 80 kilometres on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for regional transport. Compared to diesel units, the battery train offers faster acceleration, quieter operation and zero local emissions. It can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h when running on battery power and up to 160 km/h on electrified sections. Of course, the train is equipped with ETCS.

The battery train brings significant savings and greater flexibility to rail operators. The units can serve both electrified and non-electrified lines, eliminating the need to combine different types of trains. This versatility simplifies route planning and operations, reducing the overall cost of purchasing, maintaining, and operating the fleet.

For passengers, the new train brings exceptional comfort. Low floor boarding with wide doors will facilitate access for people in orthopaedic wheelchairs, the elderly and families with prams. The spacious interior offers plenty of room for luggage, bicycles, and sports equipment, which will be especially appreciated by people travelling for leisure. The train has Wi-Fi, electrical outlets for recharging small electronics right by the seats, and modern barrier-free toilets with a changing counter.

In addition, battery power ensures much quieter operation compared to diesel trains, which contributes to greater comfort for passengers and less noise around the tracks. The absence of local emissions means a greener operation, which contributes to environmental protection and the quality of life of residents near the railway.

“Our aim was to create a train that will increase passenger comfort and at the same time support the transition to environmentally friendly transport. This train is a promise of a modern and sustainable future on Czech railways,” added Tomáš Ignačák.

The RailStaff Awards took place at the NEC in Birmingham on Thursday 28th November. The annual awards recognise and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of employees in the rail industry across the UK, and this year had a glitzy New York City theme.

As well as attending the awards, Land Sheriffs sponsored the Charity Award and presented the prize to the worthy winners.

“We were honoured to not only sponsor the Charity Award at this year’s RailStaff Awards but to also present the trophy to Kev Adlam, Mark Bridel and Jerry Dickinson from Network Rail and GB Railfreight for their wonderful charity work with Martin House Children’s Hospice. There were so many excellent winners on the night, each recognised for their exceptional contributions to the rail industry” says James Coyle, Managing Director of Land Sheriffs.

The Charity Award celebrates rail industry employees that make a difference in the sector through charity and compassion, whether that’s for colleagues or commuters, or involves raising money and going the extra mile to help out.

It was just one of many awards presented on the night, alongside Graduate of the Year, Rail Engineer of the Year and Rail Ambassador of the Year, to name a few. These awards were presented to people in job roles ranging from managers and assistants to trainees and apprentices.

One of Land Sheriffs’ own team members – Nick Lay – was a finalist for the Lifesaver Award, which recognises someone who has carried out a life-saving intervention.

“All at Land Sheriffs extend their congratulations to our colleague Nick Lay for being a finalist for the Lifesaver Award. It’s a huge achievement, and represents the brilliant work not only Nick but the whole of the Land Sheriffs team does every day. To date, we have completed 455 life-saving interventions” James added.

Land Sheriffs have almost 20 years’ experience providing security services for a range of clients across the UK, predominantly in the rail industry. Their dedicated team are committed to protecting their clients’ staff, assets and infrastructure.

With a 24-hour CCTV room and a team of hand-picked, skilled security professionals, they deliver services ranging from mobile patrols and manned guarding, to on-train security, welfare patrols and crime prevention measures.

“It’s a privilege to have been involved in the RailStaff Awards! We’d like to congratulate every winner and every nominee; we can’t praise them enough for the impact their contributions have had on the rail industry. It wouldn’t keep moving without them!” concluded James.

David has over 20 years of experience managing transport operations, including 10 years at ScotRail where he is currently the Safety and Sustainability Director. He has also held leading operational roles at Edinburgh and London Southend airports.

In this new role, David will ensure that the business provides the highest standard of service to its existing ScotRail fleets, and is well positioned to support the long term ambitions of Scotland’s Railway. He will join in April 2025.

Ben Ackroyd, Chief Operating Officer at Porterbrook said, “David has a wealth of experience and we’re delighted he will be joining the team.

“Our excellent relationship with Scotland’s railway goes back over three decades. David will play an important role ensuring we’re best placed with Transport Scotland to deliver their plans for growth with the right mix of rolling stock solutions now and for the future.”

David Lister added, “I am really looking forward to joining Porterbrook at an important time for the rail industry, and working with the team to ensure we meet the current needs and future ambitions of Scotland’s railway.”

The MTR Corporation has announced that it had hosted a launch event at the Tuen Mun Depot for the “Light Rail & MTR Bus Road Safety and Elderly Travel Safety Campaign.” The event celebrated the commitment to safety of 144 Light Rail and MTR Bus captains, who received the “Safe Driving Award” for their outstanding records. Among them, 27 captains had been honoured for achieving a remarkable 25 consecutive years of safe driving.

Operating on roads shared with other vehicles, Light Rail and MTR Bus services demand heightened vigilance from drivers. To support this, MTR has implemented various safety measures, including regular refresher training for captains and the development of the “Integrated Speed and Position Supervision System” for Light Rail. These initiatives aim to bolster drivers’ alertness and promote responsible driving behaviours.

The launch event had drawn broad support, with attendees including Legislative Council members, District Council members, representatives from the New Territories North Region of the Hong Kong Police Force and organisations such as the Hong Kong Road Safety Patrol. Public transport operators and non-governmental organisations also joined efforts to promote road safety awareness.

In line with 2024’s campaign, MTR is placing a special emphasis on elderly passengers. The corporation has established the “Elderly Care Group”, collaborating with the Elder Academy and community organisations to offer educational activities and safety tips. Public outreach includes depot visits, safety talks and interactive events designed to enhance road safety awareness among seniors.

Jeny Yeung, Managing Director – Hong Kong Transport Services of MTR Corporation, said: “Light Rail and MTR Bus have been serving residents in the Northwest New Territories for over 35 years, consistently demonstrating good safety performance. While we will continue to improve our performance, through this year’s safety campaign, we also aim to remind passengers, especially the elderly, to be vigilant about road conditions when travelling on the Light Rail and MTR Bus or crossing Light Rail tracks, thereby creating a safe travel environment together.”

Alstom has announced that it has secured a significant contract from the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink) to operate, service and maintain its regional passenger rail network. The contract, valued at approximately $515 million USD (€490 million EUR) for its initial five-year term, will commence on 1 January 2025 and run through 20 June 2030. With the potential for a three-year extension, the contract’s total value could increase to around $860 million USD (€817 million EUR). Over 400 Alstom employees will be involved in the operations and maintenance of the system in Southern California.

This new agreement strengthens Alstom’s long-standing relationship with Metrolink, which dates back more than 30 years, beginning with the delivery of Bilevel coaches and the company’s role as Metrolink’s maintenance provider since 1998.

Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, said: “Metrolink customers are doing their part to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and we are committed to bringing them our experience and dedication to deliver world class service and to help Metrolink prepare to accommodate visitors from around the world during the upcoming global sporting events in Southern California.”

The contract will see Alstom provide comprehensive train operations and maintenance services across Metrolink’s 545.6 miles of service lines, which stretch across six counties in Southern California. This includes train crewing, customer service, rolling stock maintenance and facilities upkeep. Additionally, Alstom will mobilise over 200 employees to manage Metrolink services starting 1 July 2025. 

Metrolink’s regional passenger rail network serves a vital role in offering safe, affordable and sustainable transportation across Southern California. It operates a fleet of 258 passenger rail cars and 60 locomotives, connecting communities and businesses in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and San Diego counties. The network also includes the Arrow service, a nine-mile operation in San Bernardino County, which will see the addition of North America’s first hydrogen-powered train in 2025.

Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said: “We are grateful for the efforts and dedication of the Amtrak crews who have been operating our Metrolink trains since 2010 and the TransitAmerica Services Inc. team members who have been operating Arrow since that service began in 2022.”

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