EU starts search for rail research partners

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The European Commission is looking for industry partners interested in supporting a €1 billion rail research project.

Shift2Rail, which was officially launched in July, is a public-private partnership designed to drive forward research into technological innovations which could significantly improve passenger and freight rail services in Europe.

Founding members include Alstom, Ansaldo STS, Bombardier, Siemens, Thales and CAF, Trafikverket and Network Rail – each of which contributed €30 million to the scheme.

The European Commission is now seeking associate members to support the project.

Commission vice-president Siim Kallas, EU Commissioner for mobility and transport, said: “Shift2Rail is a unique opportunity to develop strategic technologies and solutions that will radically improve the quality of EU rail transport for passengers and freight customers.

“Such innovations are vital in complementing the Commission’s work on the Fourth Railway Package. At the same time, Shift2Rail will help to strengthen the competitiveness of European businesses and retain Europe’s leadership in the global rail market.”

The deadline for applications is November 12 and successful submissions will be announced in early 2015.

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