Keeping the Rail sector one step ahead
By Jash Bansidhar, Managing Director, Advantech Europe

As with many sectors, the effects of Covid-19 on the rail industry have been far-reaching, with a huge impact on operations, not least in terms of passenger numbers. Figures from the Rail Safety & Standards Board in the UK, for example, suggest that domestic passenger numbers fell at one point as low as 4%, and the picture is similar elsewhere in Europe.

While the picture is improving as national lockdown measures are gradually lifted, the legacy of Covid-19 will no doubt outlast the timescale of the current pandemic. This means that rail operators globally must find ways to deliver high-quality operations and service, and so maintain profitability, for the years to come.

BITZER: Repair and remanufacture: the green solution

BITZER is one of the leading compressor manufacturers in the world, holding the largest market share in reciprocating and screw compressors in most countries. As such, the specialist for refrigeration and air conditioning technology has the responsibility to provide the right services to its customers – locally and with the necessary market flexibility. This is why BITZER’s service network was born: Green Point.

BITZER had a clear vision of the growing importance of services and aftersales when it started its Green Point concept almost 15 years ago. Services such as compressor repairs and remanufacturing are becoming ever more important, which is why Green Point offers state-of-the-art BITZER compressor care and services, close to customers and in interaction with local markets.

TIMES ARE CHANGING FOR WOMEN IN RAIL
Special meeting with Jennifer Bächli

Only 16% of the rail industry is made up of women and even smaller number are in senior, decision-making posts. We believe that there are a lot of initiatives in the industry, but we are sure that working together will bring greater success! Special meeting with a woman who will inspire other women. Jennifer Bächli, Head of Marketing at BÄCHLI AG.

LOOKING TO THE SKIES
Fly by rail

Drones are in the news as big groups and start-ups alike compete and/or join forces to launch flying taxis for cities. Whether and when they will take off is anyone’s guess. Less The Fifth Element, more here and now, the railways are already using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for maintenance and surveillance purposes.