DB and SNCF extend partnership to drive rail digitisation

Deutsche Bahn and SNCF, the national rail operators of Germany and France, have formed a new agreement to collectively drive innovation across Europe’s rail industry.

The move builds on an existing partnership between the two operators and will see the pooling of resources to “build the rail system of tomorrow” as well as “improve the performance and attractiveness of rail transport”.

In a statement the two companies said they will seek to further digitise rail operations with 5G communication systems as well as with artificial intelligence. The latter, the companies said, will be used to analyse crowds at stations in order to improve railway infrastructure and timetables. They also wish to explore the potential of quantum computing.

DB and SNCF said they are also working together to further reduce the CO2 footprint of rail travel by formulating sustainable design solutions and best practices for train stations and train maintenance. They are also looking to standardise the use of hydrogen batteries in trains.

DB chairman and CEO, Richard Lutz, said: “By sharing our technological and digital know-how, SNCF and DB are accelerating the path towards a more sustainable future for Europe. Our long-standing partnership helps us to innovate more quickly and more comprehensively.”

SNCF chairman and CEO, Jean-Pierre Farandou, said “essential projects” have already been initiated and that the extended partnership “will allow us to go even further in terms of innovation… to make rail the pillar of sustainable mobility in our two countries and throughout Europe”.