Last week, DB informed that they are taking 3D printing into the syllabus of its vocational training and have started to print 3D spare parts for its ICE series of trains. The objective is to make around 10,000 different spare parts available via 3D printing by 2021. Why it matters: Looking at classic obsolescence topics … Continue reading DB starts printing 3D metal spare parts
Category: Railways
Composite wings for the next narrow body aircraft?
This summer, GKN Aerospace announced that they are researching the case of an optimized carbon reinforced wing for a next Airbus single aisle, narrow body aircraft under the "wing of tomorrow" program. Why it matters: The next topic in aviation after a new engine option for the 777 and the A350 is definitely a new … Continue reading Composite wings for the next narrow body aircraft?
Skoda going more digital
This Monday, Skoda announced that they are integrating Lokel into a new Skoda Digital subsidiary. This newly formed group with around 70 employees will be responsible for their TCMS, diagnostic systems and multimedia systems. Why it matters: Skoda transitions with this strategic move from a "classic" small OEM in the rolling stock industry being a … Continue reading Skoda going more digital
Why the US never manages to purchase modern rolling stock
When I recently read that NJ Transit is signing the contract to purchase new double-deck EMUs, I was positively surprised. Not only did they manage to purchase an electric multiple unit (EMU) which is much more suitable for commuter and regional transport, but they also went for a double-deck configuration permitting more capacity at the … Continue reading Why the US never manages to purchase modern rolling stock
The UK liberal market approach on fair collection seems to have failed
Last week, the ORR published some intermediate results from their market study in automatic ticket gates (ATG) and ticket vending machines (TVM). It surprised me not much that in the UK the situation from a demand-monopoly switched almost fully to a supply-monopoly where with designed market entry barriers the competition could have been kept at … Continue reading The UK liberal market approach on fair collection seems to have failed
Moving forward by stepping back – the KL-Singapore HSL
There has been lots of criticism on the proposed high speed rail line between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore (KL-SG HSL) due to costs, alignment, station in Singapore and proposed responsibilities. However, it is probably globally one of the few truly high-speed projects that are economically and ecologically sound. At the moment, over 84 flights are … Continue reading Moving forward by stepping back – the KL-Singapore HSL
Mapping Railways in South East Asia
So, the summer is nearing to its end and so also the time to play a bit with maps. Thanks to all of you who have sent me feedback. I tried to include some of it in this map, i.e. focusing on the projects that at least have undergone a somewhat detailed feasibility study and … Continue reading Mapping Railways in South East Asia
Mapping Railways in South America
After my playful time with railways in Africa, I now attempted South America. While most of the countries are rather simple to draw, just a few major lines to some mines, some countries like Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Venezuela have extensive networks. I did not take the time to look at each line about if … Continue reading Mapping Railways in South America
The higher order value business service providers
In transportation, there seems to be a saying that we all have to better understand the customer with big data applications. Before this year's Innotrans, many new companies are popping up that want to do a railway ticket purchasing or transport ticket purchasing platform. What they are all seeking is the higher-order-value position - a … Continue reading The higher order value business service providers
Mapping Railways in Africa
Some years ago, I was inspired by some digital nomads that did a railway map about South East Asia. They showed that with a few tricks, you can make a comprehensive map of a region or a continent in a metro style. It took me a few attempts till I finally created something that can … Continue reading Mapping Railways in Africa
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