Siemens Vectron: Munich Investment Boosts Rail Production & Digital Integration

Siemens Mobility Bolsters Vectron Locomotive Production and Digital Capabilities with €250 Million Investment

Siemens Mobility is significantly expanding its presence in the railway sector with a €250 million investment in its Munich-Allach facility. This substantial investment, spanning the last two years, aims to dramatically increase production capacity for the company’s flagship Vectron locomotive, integrate advanced digital solutions, and consolidate the company’s global headquarters at the Allach site. The expansion is a direct response to surging demand, with a current order backlog of approximately 1,000 Vectron locomotives, signaling a strong commitment to innovation and market leadership. The investment demonstrates Siemens Mobility’s long-term vision for the future of rail transport, covering all aspects from production to services and digital integration.

Expanding Vectron Locomotive Production

The cornerstone of this investment is the expansion of the Munich-Allach factory, increasing the available space from 47,000 to over 100,000 square meters. This expansion is designed to boost Vectron locomotive production significantly. The facility now boasts the capability to manufacture up to 385 Vectron locomotives annually. Two dedicated production lines are in operation, with one line producing a new locomotive every day and the other every day and a half, highlighting the efficiency gains achieved. The Allach factory is also responsible for producing the frames, bodies, and cabs of the Vectron locomotives. These are all built on site, with the use of robots for long welds on the frames and motorised shuttles for running the 20 km of cabling. Even the painting of the body shells is carried out at the Allach facility. Since its introduction in 2010, with the first locomotive unveiled at the InnoTrans exhibition in Berlin, over 1,750 Vectron locomotives have been produced in Allach.

Modular Design and Technological Adaptability

The Vectron’s success can be attributed to its modular construction, allowing for remarkable adaptability to diverse operational requirements. The platform has been successfully implemented in various configurations, including AC, DC, and combined AC/DC traction systems. Furthermore, the design accommodates diesel-powered, bi-mode diesel/electric, and, more recently, AC models with battery packs for shunting operations. This flexibility extends to signaling systems, with Vectron locomotives equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Baseline 3 and various national systems. This adaptability allows the locomotives to operate across multiple countries, with some vehicles authorized for use in up to 12 different nations. This versatility is critical in an increasingly interconnected European rail network.

Advancements in Passenger Rail Services

Siemens Mobility is also pushing into passenger rail services, introducing the Vectrain concept. This innovative solution involves a rake of passenger coaches with a Vectron cab at one end, known as the Vecturo coach. This configuration allows a driver to operate push-pull services from either the Vectron locomotive or the Vecturo cab. This design aims to enhance operational flexibility and optimize train compositions, especially for commuter and regional routes.

Enhancing Rail Service and Digital Integration

The Munich-Allach facility also houses the Rail Service Centre, dedicated to comprehensive locomotive maintenance. This centre performs heavy overhauls for locomotives that have travelled 1.2 million kilometers or haven’t had a major overhaul in eight years. Accident repairs, ranging from minor to major, are also conducted. The facility’s capacity is being increased from 25 locomotive overhauls and accident repairs per year to 80, involving the addition of four new service tracks. Siemens Mobility is also placing a strong emphasis on digital services, with a team of approximately 70 on-site data and software specialists providing modular services and the Railigent X application suite. This focus on data-driven solutions supports customers with their digital transformations, improving operational efficiency and providing improved serviceability.

Consolidating Headquarters and Future Expansion

As part of the expansion, Siemens Mobility is relocating its global headquarters to the Munich-Allach site, consolidating its operations from Munich-Perlach, 23 kilometers away. This move, combined with the growing need for specialized personnel in areas like welding, metalworking, mechatronics, and electrical engineering, projects a workforce of 2,500 employees at the site by 2028.

Conclusion

Siemens Mobility’s €250 million investment in its Munich-Allach facility marks a strategic move to bolster production capacity, innovate its offerings, and enhance its digital capabilities, all while consolidating its global headquarters. The expansion will significantly increase the production of Vectron locomotives, meet the growing demand, and position Siemens Mobility for long-term success in the global rail market. The company’s focus on modular design, technological adaptability, and digital integration is pivotal for maintaining a competitive edge and meeting the evolving needs of railway operators worldwide. The Vectron platform’s ability to accommodate various power systems and signaling configurations, coupled with new service offerings like the Vectrain, underscores the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions. The relocation of the headquarters signifies a strong investment in its local workforce. With a projected 2,500 employees by 2028, the Munich-Allach site is set to become a focal point for innovation, development, and manufacturing within the railway industry. This strategic investment demonstrates Siemens Mobility’s belief in the future of rail and its commitment to providing technological leadership to the sector.

Company Summary

Siemens Mobility, a leading provider of transport solutions for more than 160 years, empowers sustainable and digital mobility with its innovative technologies. The company’s portfolio includes rolling stock, rail infrastructure, intelligent traffic systems, and related services. The company’s expertise allows it to deliver integrated solutions that enhance passenger and freight transportation, making it a crucial player in the railway industry.