Today and tomorrow: Four ways to put OEMs at the centre of the rail revolution

Driving the Rail Revolution: Four Strategies for OEM Success.

We all know that rail is one of the most sustainable and efficient modes of transport. It offers lower emissions, higher passenger and cargo capacity, and greater cost-effectiveness compared to road or air alternatives.

But as the industry pushes towards an electrified and decarbonised future, rail OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) must balance essential sustainability goals with daily cost pressures and the need to always meet operational challenges around reliability and safety. Looking at four key areas can help them do so.

1. Opt for the right solution

Rail systems operate in harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures and are subject to intense vibrations that challenge every functional aspect of rolling stock.

But to reduce potential downtime, achieve long-term reliability, and meet rigorous safety requirements, the right systems - backed by robust engineering expertise – are critical.

For decades, the use of compressed air systems has been central to rail operations, powering functions such as braking, coupling, external doors, and suspension.

And pneumatic systems have demonstrated their reliability under diverse and demanding conditions - from the icy winters in Northern China to the blistering heat of the Australian outback.

Only by selecting components and systems that deliver proven performance assurance can long-term success realised.

2. Get smart with cost control

With pressure mounting from rising energy prices, labour costs, and maintenance demands, many rail OEMs are being forced to get a firmer grip of cost control.

One of the most effective strategies to help is to adopt a total cost of ownership (TCO) approach. This means prioritising the lifetime cost of a component or system - not just its upfront price.

Single-supplier strategies and multi-year maintenance contracts are ideally placed to help OEMs manage costs over time. By working with trusted suppliers who provide quality solutions certified to international standards, rail OEMs can reduce maintenance frequency, prevent downtime, and meet compliance requirements with confidence.

And to help with budgeting, multi-year maintenance contracts also allow costs to be spread over several years, so no large upfront outlay is required.

3. Partner up for success

Collaboration between rail OEMs and experienced partners can further reduce systems’ complexity, procurement timelines, and maintenance challenges.

With a global footprint, we’re able to ensure compliance with international safety and quality standards; a benefit which is particularly valuable in a rail sector that often operates across multiple territories. Beyond operational efficiency, close collaboration creates additional value in early-stage product development. By involving engineering experts in the design phase, rail OEMs can benefit from truly custom systems that cut lead times and improve system outcomes.

4. Grasp the electrification opportunity

Finally, as the rail industry embraces the sustainability, operational and energy saving benefits provided by electrical solutions, rail OEMs need to ensure they are partnered with a solution provider that truly understands the move towards full electrification.

For example, Switzerland has achieved electrification for approximately 99% of its rail network, but other nations, including the UK - with only around 38% electrification - have significant progress to make.

This presents an opportunity for OEMs to lead by innovation and align solutions with the sustainability goals of rail operators who are on their electrification journey.

Collaborating with technology partners with proven expertise in electrified systems, adds real value in key areas such as critical guidance on integrating advanced solutions, energy savings, reducing emissions, and compliance with stringent environmental standards.

Whether it’s specifying high-quality pneumatic systems or supporting the move to fully electric networks, taking a strategic, forward-thinking approach will enable OEMs to deliver solution reliability, cost control, and environmental benefits for years to come.

It’s not just about meeting today’s challenges; it is also about unlocking tomorrow’s opportunities. For more information on how we can help you, click here.