HÜBNER’s Giant Tram-Train Deal: 1008 Gangways for Stadler

This article examines the significant contract awarded to HÜBNER Group by Stadler, a leading rail vehicle manufacturer, for the supply and maintenance of gangway systems for a large-scale tram-train project. This project, involving the delivery of CITYLINK vehicles (tram-trains capable of operating on both urban tram lines and intercity rail networks) to a consortium of six transport operators across Germany and Austria, represents a landmark achievement in modern rail transportation. The scope of the contract extends beyond mere component supply; it includes a comprehensive 32-year maintenance agreement, highlighting the long-term commitment and strategic partnership between HÜBNER and Stadler. The complexities involved in designing and supplying gangway systems for a diverse range of vehicle configurations, operational environments, and customer requirements will be explored, emphasizing the technological sophistication and logistical prowess required for successful project execution. Finally, the wider implications of this contract on the future of tram-train technology and the collaborative efforts in the rail industry will be analyzed.

The VDV Tram-Train Project and the CITYLINK Vehicles

The contract centers around the delivery of up to 1,008 gangway systems for Stadler’s CITYLINK vehicles, part of a larger VDV (Verband Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen – Association of German Transport Companies) tram-train project. Stadler secured the initial contract for 504 CITYLINK vehicles from a consortium of six transport firms in Germany and Austria. The consortium’s diverse needs mandate varying vehicle lengths and door configurations, resulting in the need for three distinct gangway system variants from HÜBNER. This necessitates a high degree of adaptability and customization within HÜBNER’s manufacturing process, demonstrating a sophisticated level of engineering and production capability. The CITYLINK vehicles, designed for interoperability between tram and mainline rail networks, represent a significant step towards integrated public transportation systems. This design requires robust and versatile gangway systems that can seamlessly accommodate diverse track gauges and platform heights.

HÜBNER’s Gangway System Design and Technological Features

HÜBNER’s gangway system design for the CITYLINK vehicles incorporates key features designed for optimal performance and reliability. The systems will feature double-corrugated bellows for effective sealing and passenger protection, a turning plate with floor covering to ensure smooth passenger transition between vehicles and platforms, and radial articulation to accommodate the varying angles between coupled vehicles and the platform. The use of double-corrugated bellows significantly enhances the system’s resilience to environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations and vibrations, crucial for the long-term performance and safety of the system. The incorporation of a turning plate with floor covering improves passenger comfort and accessibility, while radial articulation ensures smooth operation across various coupling configurations.

The Strategic Importance of the Contract for HÜBNER

For HÜBNER, this contract is of paramount strategic importance. It represents not only the largest order in Stadler’s history but also underscores HÜBNER’s position as a leading supplier of high-quality rail components. The 32-year maintenance contract further solidifies this relationship, highlighting the trust and confidence placed in HÜBNER’s capabilities. This long-term commitment reflects the expectation of sustained performance, reliability, and the need for ongoing maintenance support throughout the lengthy operational life of the CITYLINK vehicles. The project also underlines HÜBNER’s commitment to efficient, reliable, and high-quality supply chain management in the demanding rail industry, showcasing the company’s logistical strength and its ability to meet the intricate requirements of a large-scale, international project.

The Long-Term Implications and Conclusion

The HÜBNER-Stadler collaboration on the VDV Tram-Train project showcases a significant step towards the future of integrated public transportation. The success of this project hinges on the seamless integration of innovative gangway systems, capable of meeting the diverse requirements of multiple operators and operating environments. HÜBNER’s commitment to quality and reliability, as demonstrated by the 32-year maintenance contract, underpins the long-term viability of the project and sets a new standard for collaboration within the rail industry. The project’s success will contribute significantly to the broader adoption of tram-train technology, improving intercity connectivity and enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of public transportation systems. The ability of the CITYLINK vehicles to operate seamlessly on both urban and intercity networks underlines a significant step towards efficient and integrated transport networks, representing a positive influence on both urban and regional mobility. The project demonstrates a successful model of large-scale public-private partnerships, enabling the delivery of innovative and sustainable transportation solutions.