HÜBNER’s CITYLINK Gangway System: A Rail Innovation

This article explores the significant contract awarded to the HÜBNER Group by Stadler for the supply and maintenance of gangway systems for Stadler’s CITYLINK tram-train vehicles. This project, encompassing a substantial order and a long-term maintenance agreement, highlights the importance of robust, reliable gangway systems in modern, multi-operator rail networks. The deal underscores the strategic collaboration between two major players in the rail industry and showcases HÜBNER’s innovative approach to gangway technology. We will examine the technical specifications of the gangway systems, the logistical challenges involved in supplying such a large order across multiple operators, and the long-term implications of the maintenance contract, considering its impact on both operational efficiency and lifecycle costs. The analysis will delve into the strategic significance of this contract for both HÜBNER and Stadler, and consider the wider implications for the future of tram-train technology and interoperability within increasingly complex rail networks.

The CITYLINK Project: A Multi-Operator Tram-Train Initiative

The core of this discussion centers around Stadler’s CITYLINK tram-train vehicles, commissioned by a consortium of six transport operators from Germany and Austria. This consortium, including Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe (VBK), Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (AVG), Saarbahn Netz, Schiene Oberösterreich, the State of Salzburg, and Zweckverband Regional-Stadtbahn Neckar-Alb, represents a significant undertaking in multi-operator rail integration. The CITYLINK vehicles, designed for flexibility, will vary in length and door configuration to meet the specific operational needs of each operator. This requirement necessitates adaptable gangway systems capable of seamlessly integrating with diverse vehicle designs and platform interfaces.

HÜBNER’s Gangway System: Design and Functionality

HÜBNER’s contract involves the supply of up to 1,008 gangway systems, featuring three distinct variants tailored to the needs of the six consortium members. These systems incorporate double-corrugated bellows for effective sealing and articulation, ensuring passenger safety and comfort during operation. A key feature is the inclusion of a turning plate with floor covering, facilitating smooth transitions between vehicles and platforms, regardless of alignment discrepancies. The radial articulation design ensures the gangways can accommodate the varying operational conditions and platform heights inherent in a multi-operator system. The use of double-corrugated bellows is critical for both weather sealing and mitigating vibrations to improve passenger comfort. The turning plate with flooring ensures a level and safe transition between vehicles even if there is slight misalignment. The radial articulation provides flexibility to accommodate different platform heights and curvature.

Logistical and Maintenance Considerations

The sheer scale of the project, involving the delivery of gangway systems for 504 initial CITYLINK vehicles (with an option for an additional 258) over several years (2023-2031), presents significant logistical challenges. Coordinating the production, delivery, and installation of these systems across multiple locations and operators requires meticulous planning and robust project management. Furthermore, the 32-year maintenance contract highlights the importance of long-term service and support. This aspect is crucial for ensuring the continued reliability and operational efficiency of the CITYLINK fleet, minimizing downtime, and maintaining passenger safety across the network. A comprehensive maintenance plan will encompass preventative maintenance, parts supply, and rapid response to potential issues.

Strategic Implications for HÜBNER and Stadler

For HÜBNER, this contract represents a substantial win, solidifying their position as a leading supplier of gangway systems in the rail industry. The order is described as the largest in Stadler’s history, emphasizing the scale and significance of this collaborative project. The long-term maintenance contract provides HÜBNER with a recurring revenue stream and strengthens their relationship with a major rail vehicle manufacturer. For Stadler, securing this contract demonstrates their commitment to providing innovative and adaptable rolling stock solutions for complex, multi-operator rail networks. The partnership underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between vehicle manufacturers and component suppliers in delivering successful and efficient rail projects. This level of collaboration showcases the advantages of a vertically integrated approach to designing and maintaining railway infrastructure.

Conclusions

The HÜBNER and Stadler partnership, as evidenced by this large-scale gangway system contract for the CITYLINK tram-train project, highlights key trends shaping the future of rail transport. The focus on multi-operator compatibility, demanding adaptable designs like HÜBNER’s radial articulation gangways with double-corrugated bellows, showcases the need for seamless integration within increasingly complex rail networks. The 32-year maintenance contract underscores a shift towards long-term service agreements, reflecting a move beyond simple component supply to comprehensive lifecycle management. This approach minimizes operational disruptions, optimizes maintenance costs, and ultimately enhances the reliability and sustainability of rail infrastructure. The successful execution of this project will serve as a case study for future large-scale rail initiatives, demonstrating the benefits of collaborative partnerships, innovative engineering, and proactive lifecycle management strategies. The project’s success depends heavily on the effective coordination between Stadler, HÜBNER, and the six transport operators to ensure timely delivery, installation, and seamless integration of the gangway systems. The long-term maintenance contract also ensures that any operational issues are addressed quickly and effectively to maintain the smooth functioning of the railway system, which is a vital aspect of public transport.