Posted by Amy Sarcevic on 14 October 2024
Unlocking the full potential of rail in New Zealand
Rail transport offers immense promise for New Zealand, providing a sustainable and efficient solution to the country's growing challenges. As cities expand and traffic congestion worsens, rail presents a high-capacity, low-emission alternative to road transport. This not only reduces the nation's carbon footprint but also creates economic opportunities by improving connectivity and reducing travel times.
Beyond transportation, a modern rail system can enhance urban development, create jobs, and make commuting accessible and affordable for all. By shifting more passengers and freight to rail, New Zealand can alleviate road network strain, cut vehicle emissions, and contribute to a greener future.
Exploring Rail's Future at the NZ Rail Conference
As the NZ Rail Conference approaches, experts will gather to discuss the future of rail. Mick Spiers of Siemens will highlight the pivotal role of technology in unlocking rail's full potential while addressing barriers that discourage people from choosing rail over cars.
Spiers will delve into innovative technologies such as:
- Automated Train Operations (ATO)
- European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2
- AI-driven maintenance
"Technology holds the key to enabling a smarter, more connected rail system in New Zealand," Spiers said. "By improving throughput, service reliability, and reducing delays and disruptions, we can unlock the full potential of the existing rail infrastructure while encouraging people to take rail as their preferred mode of transport."
The Role of Technology in Rail Efficiency
Spiers emphasized that smart technology is essential for maximizing the efficiency of existing infrastructure, especially as New Zealand focuses on reducing its carbon footprint and shifting to greener transport solutions.
"You cannot build your way out of congestion; you need to use smart technology to maximize the efficiency of the existing infrastructure," Spiers said.
Key technologies include:
- ATO over ETCS: Uses in-cab signaling and continuous supervision to run trains more frequently and on time.
- AI-driven maintenance: Ensures network resilience and reduces costly downtimes.
These systems make rail a more attractive option, encouraging people to leave their cars at home and use public transport for daily commutes.
"Our vision is to transform the everyday. To create a world where people can move freely around their cities without delays, disruption, or stress. Smart technology enables us to make this vision a reality," Spiers said.
Further Insight
Mick Spiers will share more about the role of technology in maximizing rail's value at the upcoming NZ Rail Conference, hosted by Informa Connect. The event will take place on 16-17 October at the Aotea Centre, Auckland.
About Mick Spiers
Mick Spiers is the Chief Operating Officer for Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility in Australia and New Zealand. He is a highly respected innovator and industry thought leader, having held global and regional roles with Thales, Cubic, and Siemens.
About Siemens
Siemens Mobility has been a leader in intelligent transport solutions for over 175 years. Its core areas include:
- Rolling stock
- Rail automation and electrification
- Comprehensive software portfolio
- Turnkey systems and related services
With digital products and solutions, Siemens Mobility enables operators worldwide to make infrastructure intelligent, increase value sustainably, enhance passenger experience, and guarantee availability.
Siemens has been in Australia and New Zealand for over 150 years, employing over 600 people from 41 nationalities. It has offices in major capital cities and manufacturing sites in Melbourne and Perth. Siemens aims to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030 and is a partner in Australia's first carbon-neutral rail infrastructure project.