EU-RAIL 2.0: The European Rail Sector’s Bid for an €18bn ‘Research-to-Rollout’ Pipeline

Europe’s rail sector, comprising major industry players, is advocating for the establishment of a successor to the EU-RAIL innovation framework. This initiative aims to secure an €18 billion investment for a comprehensive ‘research-to-rollout’ pipeline.

The proposed EU-RAIL 2.0 framework is designed to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the European rail system. Key stakeholders, including rail operators, manufacturers, and infrastructure managers, are collaborating to present a unified request to the European Commission.

The funding is intended to support various projects that focus on digitalization, automation, and sustainability within the rail industry. Specific areas of interest include the development of advanced signaling systems, energy-efficient technologies, and integrated mobility solutions.

Industry leaders argue that the investment is crucial for achieving the European Union’s climate goals and enhancing the overall efficiency of rail transport. They emphasize that a robust rail network is essential for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport alternatives.

The current EU-RAIL framework has been instrumental in fostering innovation and collaboration across the rail sector since its inception. However, stakeholders believe that a new phase is necessary to address emerging challenges and leverage technological advancements.

As part of the proposal, the rail sector is also calling for increased collaboration with research institutions and technology providers. This approach aims to accelerate the transition from research and development to practical implementation of innovative solutions.

The European Commission is expected to review the proposal in the coming months, with discussions focusing on the strategic importance of rail transport in achieving the EU’s broader economic and environmental objectives.

source: railtech.com