Wider application of new materials for lighter and greener trains

摘要

The implementation of new lightweight materials for trains has been slow due to the lack of suitable certification procedures. An EU initiative paved the way for the certification of new materials such as composites. They can help to build lighter rolling stock that will consume less energy and reduce emissions. While such materials are being used in the manufacturing of rolling stock parts, there is no way to certify a rail vehicle built mostly or entirely from non-metallic materials. The existing regulatory framework must be re-examined in order for the sector to recognise what changes are needed.