InGa-Z: Germany’s Digital Rail Freight System – Hitachi Rail

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Introduction

Hitachi Rail, in collaboration with other industry stakeholders, has introduced a new digital system, InGa-Z, designed to enhance operational efficiency at intermodal freight terminals in Germany. Developed through Protostellar GmbH, a joint venture involving Hitachi Rail, MT Logistics GmbH, and DB Cargo AG, the system is supported by the Federal Ministry for Transport (BMV) as part of the Future of Rail Freight Transport (Z-SGV) programme.

Core Functionality of InGa-Z

InGa-Z is centered around a cloud-based Terminal Operating System (TOS). This system is designed to digitize and streamline freight handling procedures. The software manages container movements, automates order processing, and offers real-time status updates.

Operational Gains at Philippsthal Terminal

Deployment of InGa-Z at the Philippsthal Terminal (Werra Kombi Terminal Betriebsgesellschaft mbH) has yielded notable improvements in efficiency. The system has achieved measurable operational gains, including:

• A 20% reduction in truck turnaround times
• A 15% boost in handling capacity
• A 10% enhancement in resource utilization

Industry Impact and Strategic Goals

Yves Sterbak, Director Sales and Business Development at Hitachi Rail in Germany and Managing Director of Protostellar GmbH, stated that the digitization of processes is delivering tangible results, enhancing the competitiveness of rail freight. Christoph Renschler of DB Cargo AG emphasized the goal of increasing rail’s market share through digital solutions like InGa-Z.

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Future Prospects and Strategic Alignment

Germany aims to shift more freight from road to rail as part of its climate and transport strategies. By enhancing terminal efficiency and interoperability, InGa-Z is expected to facilitate this modal shift, thereby making rail freight a more appealing option for logistics providers and shippers. The joint venture anticipates a key role for InGa-Z in the intermodal gateway of the future, with current adoption and interest from potential users.

Conclusion

Hitachi Rail, along with MT Logistics GmbH, DB Cargo AG, and support from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Transport (BMV) through Protostellar GmbH, has launched InGa-Z, a new digital system, at the Philippsthal Terminal (Werra Kombi Terminal Betriebsgesellschaft mbH). The system is designed to improve operational efficiency at intermodal freight terminals in Germany. The software manages container movements, automates order processing, and provides real-time status updates. Early results from deployment have shown significant improvements in efficiency, including a 20% reduction in truck turnaround times, a 15% boost in handling capacity, and a 10% enhancement in resource utilization.

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: A company involved in the development and deployment of digital systems for the railway industry.

MT Logistics GmbH: A company involved in the joint venture.

DB Cargo AG: A company involved in the joint venture.

Werra Kombi Terminal Betriebsgesellschaft mbH: The Philippsthal Terminal.

Protostellar GmbH: A joint venture between Hitachi Rail, MT Logistics GmbH, and DB Cargo AG.

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