Hitachi-Tobu: Japan Rail Digital Transformation With HMAX Platform

Introduction

Hitachi Rail and Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. have initiated a strategic partnership to implement Hitachi’s HMAX digital asset management platform on Tobu Railway’s fleet, marking a significant step in the digital transformation of railway maintenance in Japan.

Core Priorities of the Partnership

The co-creation initiative will focus on three main areas: automating vehicle inspections, optimising manual operations, and enhancing on-site maintenance capabilities through digital tools. Hitachi and Tobu Railway aim to improve reliability, reduce lifecycle costs, and support the creation of more sustainable railways by leveraging AI-driven analytics and connected data platforms.

Statements from Key Personnel

Giuseppe Marino, Group CEO of Hitachi Rail, stated that HMAX technology uses AI and data to drive the digital transformation of rail, improving system reliability and efficiency. Mitsuo Iwasaki, Head of Japan Business at Hitachi Rail, mentioned that this co-creation with Tobu Railway is a key milestone in transforming railway maintenance in Japan. Takao Suzuki, Director, Managing Executive Officer and Head of the Railway Business Division at Tobu Railway, highlighted that implementing DX aligned with their maintenance methods will help address future labor shortages and that the HMAX solution will improve efficiency and enhance employee skills and engagement.

Foundation and Scope of Collaboration

This partnership builds on the existing relationship between Hitachi and Tobu Railway, which has involved Hitachi supplying rolling stock, designing systems, and providing onboard electronic equipment over several decades. This new phase extends their collaboration into the digital domain. Launched in 2024, HMAX uses advanced AI and machine learning to optimise maintenance planning, improve asset availability and extend the life of rolling stock.

Technology Integration

Developed with NVIDIA’s computing technology, the HMAX platform integrates predictive analytics, sensor data, and real-time performance monitoring into a single digital ecosystem. Hitachi Rail was recently named the first global transport company to adopt NVIDIA’s IGX Thor platform, which enables real-time processing at the edge for faster diagnostics and safer, more autonomous operations.

Conclusion

Hitachi Rail and Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. have partnered to introduce Hitachi’s HMAX digital asset management platform on Tobu Railway’s fleet to advance the digital transformation of railway maintenance across Japan.

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: A provider of railway systems, rolling stock, and related services, including digital asset management platforms.

Tobu Railway Co., Ltd.: A Japanese railway company operating a fleet of trains and infrastructure.

Technology

HMAX: Hitachi’s next-generation digital asset management platform that uses AI and machine learning for optimized maintenance planning, asset availability, and rolling stock life extension.

IGX Thor: NVIDIA’s platform enabling real-time processing at the edge for faster diagnostics and safer, more autonomous operations.