Christoph W.’s Post

The leading transport technology trade fair InnoTrans opens its doors today.   Three questions for Alexander Ketterl, CEO of KIEPE, on why the management of public transit agencies and vehicle manufacturers should definitely stop by our booth in Hall 9, 430. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬? Alexander Ketterl: InnoTrans is THE world's leading trade fair for transport technology. It offers us a unique platform to both showcase and discuss solutions to the challenges of digitalization, decarbonization and customer orientation with an international audience.   𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐊𝐈𝐄𝐏𝐄?  Alexander Ketterl: We are presenting a firework display of innovations that will boost the performance and sustainability of transit agencies. One highlight is the new generation of our Train Control Management System (TCMS), which enables real-time operations management and is, of course, cyber-secure. We are introducing this system for the first time on light rail vehicles operating in Cologne. We are also showcasing a SmartHybrid battery system for locomotives that enables up to one hour of emission-free travel as well as modular charging infrastructure products which support public transportation. We have also enhanced existing product solutions to support our customers who need to modernize their trains and buses.   𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐈𝐄𝐏𝐄 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡?  Alexander Ketterl: We support our customers and our products throughout the entire life cycle, not just during the sale. As a strong service partner for many decades, we are specialists in modernization projects all over the world, from Seattle, USA to Vienna, AT. This is what sets us apart as KIEPE. This experience is incorporated into new and existing products in order to offer customers and passengers the most efficient, safe, reliable and comfortable vehicles. In addition, we are always happy to discuss things personally: What issues or concerns do our customers have?, and what solutions can we find together?   We look forward to this exchange at the KIEPE booth! #teamkiepe #kiepe #innotrans #publictransit #emobility #charging #sustainable #zeroemission

The exhibition InnoTrans is open! We will introduce you our last product offering the benefit of increased operational speed... Sggnss 80XLs for max. speed of 160km/hour     “Light eighy”, a permanent star among the exhibition showpieces at the international InnoTrans fair is always presented in a new technical "dress". This year, the wagon will be presented in the colours of the company METRANS Group, which belongs among the stable partners of Tatragónka.  The first prototype introduced in 2012, which was designed in cooperation with METRANS Group, quickly gained its place at the market thanks to its low weight of 21,5 tonnes and unique ability to load 5 types of containers and swap bodies in 30 different container combinations. The unconventional design of this wagon allowed to reduce the noise level to measured 78 dB(A), but mainly it increased transport efficiency with a 20% reduction in energy consumption (compared to a standard articulated 80' wagon). Reduced number of bogies has also resulted in reduction of maintenance of braking systems and overall maintenance of the wagon by up to 30%. The other two introduced optimizations, XLs and XLs, further pushed efficiency of goods and materials transport, making the wagon the most popular choice for rail operators across Europe. For more than a decade, this wagon has proven its ability to adapt to the challenges of rail transport.    For Sggnss XLs, however, the time has once again come to move forward, this time faster.  Introduction of 'Light eighty' freight wagons with a top speed of 160 km/h into daily operation could mark a significant shift in efficiency and competitiveness of rail transport vis-à-vis air and road transport in Europe. This step would enable faster and more flexible transport services, making container rail transport more attractive to customers who have so far preferred other alternatives.  Increasing speed can contribute to improving intermodal transport, where rail would become a key element in fast, efficient and environmentally friendly transport of goods over long distances.   Together, we have made the first step towards faster rail freight transport, and we are confident that this initiative will inspire others to join in. Only by working together can we move the whole sector into a new era of efficient and sustainable transport.   The exhibit is equipped with an automatic coupling from Knorr Bremsse.   We invite you to a personal meeting at the wagon, where we will be happy to answer all of your questions. September 26, 2024, 10:00 a.m.  Wagon location: rail 4/65 #tatravagonka #metrans #innotrans #inovations #freightrail #highspeed #dayoperation #greentransportation

Join us at this year’s #InnoTrans in Berlin, September 24-27, and gain firsthand insights into how we utilize the latest technologies to develop maintenance strategies that ensure the overall health and safety of rolling stock while contributing to sustainability efforts through: 𝟭. 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: Well-maintained trains operate more efficiently, reducing friction and energy consumption, thereby lowering the carbon footprint. 𝟮. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Extending the life of railway components means fewer replacements, saving raw materials and reducing waste. 𝟯. 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Efficient rail operations mean fewer emissions compared to road transport, supporting global climate goals. With public transport being the backbone of sustainability, by investing in maintenance, we can ensure our infrastructure networks remain safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly. 🌍 Useful tip: InnoTrans organizers have announced that fair ticket holders will be able to use Berlin public transport in zones A, B, and C free of charge for as long as the ticket is valid. ✓ #RailwayMaintenance #Sustainability #InnoTrans #Swissrail

This isn't just another "come and see us at InnoTrans" post (although I will mention that briefly at the end 😉). A recent conversation with a good friend got me thinking about how exhibitions like InnoTrans are perceived - whether overwhelming or inspiring often depends on your perspective. Since its inception in 1996, InnoTrans has grown to become the world's largest trade fair for the #railindustry. But like the industry itself, it has evolved and now represents #publictransport as a whole. It's more than just a showcase of achievements or innovations - InnoTrans is a reflection of how our industry is progressing. It's where technology, sustainability and innovation come together, with each stakeholder contributing to a common goal: to make public transport more reliable, more comfortable and more affordable for everyone. The true significance of InnoTrans goes beyond selling or promoting products. It fosters cooperation, builds partnerships and shares knowledge. It's where industry leaders, innovators and stakeholders meet to tackle challenges and shape the future of transport. This spirit of cooperation makes InnoTrans a driver of progress - not just for companies, but for the entire public transport ecosystem. It also demonstrates the resilience of our sector - how we come together as an industry to overcome challenges and adapt to changing times. InnoTrans strengthens the bonds between suppliers, customers, competitors and everyone else who contributes to this complex ecosystem. And now, as promised 🤣 : At Funkwerk Systems GmbH, we are committed to making #publictransport more #reliable and #efficient through our innovative #passengerinformationsystems. If you'd like to find out more, we look forward to meeting you at our stand in Hall 2.1, Stand 650. See you there! #innotrans2024 #PassengerExperience #Funkwerk

At Innotrans this year this technology shall count amongst a major find as on NF Railway where already a no of rail tunnels are constructed or being constructed in hostile terrains and many of these were constructed prior to the policy modification to build BLT in longer tunnels after I took over as GM there and emphasised for the same with railway board. But what to do in the tunnels (with ballasted track and water deposit they’re affecting safety) which were already built and already had train operations plus need for other strategic requirement which may need fixture less track structure. And here it was this technology from Edilon)(Sedra a world leader in building ERS/ EBS in such circumstances without the need to block rail traffic for months together. A must adopt technology on Indian Railways #indianrailways #nfr

Time to look back and to Reflect: Forty days ago, on September 25th, I signed alongside Daniel Zollinger an agreement at InnoTrans in Berlin, the leading international trade fair for transport technology, for the purchase of 129 new shunting locomotives from Stadler. This official event marked the culmination of an intense journey filled with challenges, achievements, and incredible teamwork. Nine months ago, this project was just an idea on paper. Today, thanks to the dedication, perseverance, and collaboration of all the teams (special thanks to Ramon Leisinger and Patrik Debrunner) involved, we've turned this vision into reality. ✅ What we achieved together: 🚧 Preparation: Clear planning, comprehensive market analysis, and a thorough needs assessment. 🤝 Partner collaboration: Leveraging our collective strengths to craft innovative and sustainable solutions. 🛠️ Problem-solving: Overcoming every obstacle with agility, determination, and creativity. 🌍 Sustainability: For the first time, incorporating sustainability criteria into the tender process for locomotives. 🎉 This success is the result of outstanding synergy between departments, partners, and industry experts: 👥 A very small team, but all required skills. 🗣️ Caring and collaborative people: Ready to challenge each other constructively, always with respect and open ears. 🌐 An extended project team providing insights and expertise whenever needed. ⚡ Quick implementation of decisions or change of direction. 🔍 A healthy mix of experience and foresight to stay ahead. 📚 Leveraging best practices to save time, allowing us to focus on what’s truly new and disruptive. ⏰ Never missing a milestone—delay was simply not an option. 📍 Optimal location to meet and negotiate—the logistic part of the project was not the most trivial part! 🛡️ A solid Project Manager (Thank you Marco Geering). 🎯 A committed top-management team: making timely, impactful decisions without micromanaging. 🤝 Well-chosen partners who brought professionalism, creativity, and ultimately, the willingness to go that extra mile to secure the deal.   The result? A successful negotiation and a meaningful step toward revitalizing the market. And this is not the end, but the beginning of a new journey to enhance the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of SBB Cargo’s fleet. #CollectiveSuccess #RailwayProjects #SustainableInnovation #Collaboration #Leadership #Competion #Negociation

I’m thrilled to be in Berlin for InnoTrans 2024, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the city’s impressive public transport network. The marvel is certainly enhanced when exploring the U-Bahn in an open tray. it's an impressive mix of modalities, and active transport options. Some key features and facts that make Berlin’s transport system stand out: U-Bahn (Subway) Established: 1902 Lines: 10 Stations: 173 Total Length: 146 kilometers S-Bahn (Urban Railway) Established: 1924 Lines: 15 Stations: 166 Total Length: 340 kilometers Tram & Metrotram Established: 1865 (Horse-drawn), 1881 (Electric) Lines: 22 (9 Metrotram, 13 Tram) Total Length: 194 kilometers Ferry Lines Established: 1896 Lines: 6 (e.g., F10: Wannsee ↔ Alt-Kladow, F11: Wilhelmstrand ↔ Baumschulenstraße) Unique Feature: Some ferries are rowboats, offering a charming way to cross the waterways. Berlin’s public transport system is not only extensive but also a testament to the city’s commitment to connectivity and sustainability. Whether you’re commuting daily or exploring the city as a visitor like me for InnoTrans, Berlin’s transport network ensures a smooth and efficient journey. #InnoTrans2024 #Berlin #PublicTransport #Sustainability #humanfactors #systemsafety #rail #humanengineering #ergonomics #safety

INNOTRANS: The global rail market is worth approximately €180bn per annum. But surely the only place to see the industry come together in one place is at InnoTrans, the world’s largest transport technology trade fair. And by any measure, InnoTrans is vast. As at the last edition in 2022, organiser Messe Berlin expects the venue to be fully booked by the time the gates open on September 24. That means no less than 200 000 m2 of exhibition area will be available for visitors to explore — not merely the 42 halls, many of which are multi-storey, but also the famed outdoor tracks, where a parade of new rolling stock will be on display. It is ‘a show that always moves with the times’, with this year’s focus being on electrification, digitalisation and sustainability. It is hosting a display dedicated to AI for the first time. No other mobility trade show gathers so many decision-makers, movers and visionaries, where they can exchange ideas, negotiate business and finalise investments.

We talk a lot about making transportation greener, mainly for planes and boats. Even though, #train is already the most ecological transportation mode (after walking and cycling, from what eurosat says at the end of every journey 😂) but still needs to be even more efficient. I am sharing this very instructive article. #railway #engineering #innovation #mobility

**First Day at InnoTrans 2024: A Glimpse into the Future of Transportation** The first day at InnoTrans 2024 has been nothing short of exhilarating! From the moment I walked into the Messe Berlin exhibition halls, it was clear that the future of transportation is here. The atmosphere was buzzing with innovation, collaboration, and excitement as industry leaders, engineers, and innovators from around the world gathered to showcase their cutting-edge solutions. One of the highlights of the day was exploring the latest advancements in rail technology. Besides state-of-the-art high-speed trains to sustainable, energy-efficient rail systems, key trend visible across was Security and Networks. What stood out most was the emphasis on sustainability and digitalization. Smart rail systems, AI-driven infrastructure, and green mobility solutions were everywhere—reinforcing how the industry is rapidly transforming to meet the demands of the 21st century. innovation driving them over the next few days. 1st day charged with several interactions…Stay tuned as I share more insights and exciting discoveries from this global transportation hub! Krishna Bodanapu Karthikeyan Natarajan Prabhakar Atla Andrew S. Sundareshwar N Meenu Bagla Leela Kusuma Surampudi Venkatesh Kamath Prashanth Jayaram Krishnamurthy Kodebettu SivaKumar Balasubramanian Ramya Mohan #InnoTrans2024 #FutureOfMobility #RailInnovation #SustainableTransport