Europe’s Rail Leaders Unveil Future of Transport at InnoTrans 2024

Thursday, September 26, 2024

The European Commission, along with the European Union Agency for Railways and the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking, is excited to reveal their collaborative endeavors at InnoTrans 2024. Taking place from September 24-27 in Berlin, this premier global trade show for transport technology will serve as a dynamic forum for discussions, events, and showcasing innovative rail solutions that highlight the EU’s dedication to advancing sustainable, intelligent, and competitive transportation systems.

Located at the combined Europe for Rail booth (Hall 27, Stand 511), attendees will have the exclusive chance to engage with leading rail and mobility experts, influential decision-makers, and policy leaders. Here, they can experience the latest rail technology breakthroughs firsthand, with over 20 novel advancements from the EU-Rail R&I program on display.

A key event will be the VIP tour of the EU booth on September 24 at 11:30 AM, attended by Germany’s Minister for Digital and Transport, Dr. Volker Wissing, and Kristian Schmidt, Director for Land Transport at the European Commission. This visit will also see the unveiling of a digital Catalogue of Solutions, aiming to shift freight transport from road to rail significantly, aligning with the goals of the European Green Deal.

Magda Kopczyńska, Director-General for Mobility and Transport at the European Commission said: “InnoTrans has always been a key event for the Commission, but this year it feels especially timely. President von der Leyen has emphasised the next mandate’s focus on sustainable prosperity and competitiveness in her political guidelines, and rail is central to both. With its strong sustainability credentials and vast potential to enhance competitiveness, rail is exactly what we aim to highlight at our EU stand this year, alongside ERA and Europe’s Rail!”

The festivities will commence with the arrival of a special train from Brussels to Berlin, organized by Europe’s Rail and its partners. Distinguished guests like Georges Gilkinet, Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Mobility, and other prominent figures will participate in panel discussions and workshops focusing on the benefits of rail for passengers, deployment of innovative solutions, the pivotal role of women in rail, and digital advancement strategies.

Upon arrival in Berlin, high-profile guests will be welcomed by Ute Bonde, Senator for Urban Mobility, Transport, Climate Action, and the Environment for the State of Berlin, along with Richard Lutz and Michael Peter, key figures in European railway and infrastructure companies.

Giorgio Travaini, Executive Director at the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking said: “I am proud to kick-off our participation to InnoTrans with this European train, showcasing the commitment of all rail stakeholders and the European Union to make a real impact on travelling green. This 6-hour journey gives us the opportunity to enjoy a moment of discussion and reflection on future rail innovations and opportunities that will make rail and Europe more attractive and competitive in the years to come.”

Josef Doppelbauer, Executive Director and the European Union Agency for Railways said: “European spirit means freedom of movement – this spirit is alive on this train: moving Europe towards a sustainable and safe railway system without frontiers.”

Throughout the event, numerous thematic sessions will occur, including Speakers Corners on Digital and DAC, Climate, and Enhancing Rail Services’ Appeal and Affordability. Additionally, the Women in Rail awards will recognize the vital contributions of women in the industry, who currently make up only 20% of the workforce. These awards underline the EU’s commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion within the sector.

InnoTrans 2024 invites all to witness the future of rail transportation—a future where sustainability, innovation, and collaboration propel Europe towards a thriving and eco-friendly horizon. This collaboration is a testament to the EU’s strategy to improve cross-border rail connections and support the European Green Deal’s objective of reducing transport emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.