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Author: Livia In-Albon

Visualisation of SBB’s future long-track maintenance hall in Ticino, Switzerland, showing both a realistic rendering of the exterior with mountainous background and a technical 3D layout of the facility design.

Production concept and plant layout for a new maintenance workshop

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Requirements analysis
  • Concept development
  • Client support

Our approach

SBB plans to build a state-of-the-art maintenance workshop for its vehicle fleets at the new NSIF industrial plant in the canton of Ticino. The long-track hall plays a central role: it is primarily intended for operational maintenance and the commissioning of vehicles after overhauls. The hall will be specially designed to meet the requirements of the latest SBB fleets and must therefore meet the highest standards of flexibility, efficiency and technical equipment. In addition to the infrastructure, the planning also includes operating resources, processes and interfaces to logistics and component reconditioning.

PROSE supported SBB with an experienced team of specialists in the design and planning of the long-track hall. The project approach was based on a thorough analysis of the vehicle fleets to be maintained and the existing operating processes. From this, we developed a production concept that combines proven methods with innovative technologies. The focus was on optimising processes, designing the plant layout, selecting suitable tools, media connections and operating resources, and integrating an automated logistics concept into production. In addition, safety standards and possible automation solutions were also examined. To support the client, PROSE also assisted SBB with the verification of plant plans, the development of internal decision-making bases, and workshops on plant layout with internal and external partners.

Customer benefit

SBB benefits from a robust, future-proof production concept tailored to the specific requirements of the long-track hall and takes production interests into account. Media connections, tools, and operating resources are defined with clarity and precision, enabling direct implementation during construction The optimised infrastructure enables efficient and safe maintenance of modern vehicle fleets.

By combining technical, operational, and workshop-level expertise, we ensured high acceptance among stakeholders and delivered a highly practical concept. As an independent engineering partner, PROSE provides objective guidance and a comprehensive view across processes, interfaces, and operational requirements.

 

 

Illustration of a modern passenger train representing end-to-end rolling stock project phases from requirements to delivery.

End-to-end rolling stock engineering

Five things that get easier when your rolling stock project is delivered end-to-end:

  1. Clear responsibilities across all phases
  2. Engineering and interfaces that stay aligned
  3. Compliance and authorisation planned early
  4. More predictable timelines
  5. Consistent technical quality from concept to commissioning

At PROSE, we connect all these steps through coordinated engineering and project leadership, helping you bring vehicles into service smoothly and reliably.

Explore a selection of our end-to-end projects: 

Which part of a project is the hardest to keep aligned in your experience?

Mounted bogie swivel arm assembly with rollers and fastened components during workshop installation.

Training for the assembly of bogie components

Customer: Alstom Schweiz AG, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Training
  • Technical documentation
  • Organisation of the training

Our approach

PROSE supplied Alstom Switzerland with the swivel arm units for the GoldenPass Express bogie and created the assembly and maintenance instructions. Now, both Alstom and the end customer sought PROSE’s expertise to provide comprehensive training in assembly and testing.

PROSE carried out a multiple-day training course at the customer’s site, using the existing installation, maintenance, and work instructions as a foundation. The participating personnel were instructed step by step on how to perform the tasks independently. Our training covered the entire process, from preparation to mechanical, pneumatic and electrical assembly, as well as component testing and the creation of test protocols.

Customer benefit

As PROSE had already been responsible for and accompanied the assembly of the entire series, the customer was able to benefit from our extensive expertise and take over the assembly activities independently within a very short time.

 

Virtual representation of a train maintenance hall with roof structure, trains on parallel tracks and a yellow crane arm positioned above the vehicle for maintenance work.

Concept development for maintaining a new fleet in a historic depot

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Requirements analysis
  • VR simulation & validation
  • Concept development

Our approach

New vehicle fleets are to be introduced at the service facility in Lucerne, which will require additional roof access, in particular through the use of a crane. At the same time, there is a need for extensive renovation and replacement measures within the depot and its surroundings. Planning these structural modifications is challenging due to monument protection, limited space and ongoing operations.

PROSE analysed the maintenance requirements of the new vehicle fleets in a structured process and developed several infrastructure options. Each variant was systematically developed, evaluated and documented to support transparent decision-making. Acting as interim project manager, PROSE coordinated specialist planners and internal experts and carried out the detailed elaboration of the variants to ensure consistent progress across all areas. We also supported coordination with monument protection authorities and used virtual reality (VR) technology to simulate, test and validate the proposed solutions under realistic conditions.

Customer benefit

Through comprehensive support during the study phase and our expertise in maintenance planning, PROSE created a transparent and objective basis for all further decisions. The customer gained a clear overview of the planning status of all trades as well as coordinated cost and schedule plans. This enabled a smooth handover to the next project phase. The use of virtual reality (VR) technology supported the evaluation and optimisation of the infrastructure variants and helped to identify an optimal solution that met both operational and heritage conservation requirements.

 

   

Modern train symbolising fleet modernisation and retrofit solutions by PROSE for sustainable rail mobility.

Fleet modernisation: Smarter, sustainable solutions through retrofitting

Replace or retrofit? For many operators, the most sustainable answer is not new trains, but smarter ones.

Fleets often need to meet new performance, safety, and sustainability targets long before they reach the end of their life. Upgrading traction systems, interiors, and controls can improve efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort, while extending fleet life and keeping operations compliant.

Together with our partners IFTEC and ICS, DIE RETROFITTER cooperation, we deliver comprehensive tram and light rail modernisation services, combining engineering expertise, cost-efficient hardware and software solutions, manufacturing, and maintenance. The result: sustainable, future-ready vehicles and reduced lifecycle costs.

Explore a selection of our modernisation projects:

Running dynamics: reducing lifecycle costs while improving safety and comfort

Did you know that optimising wheel-rail interaction can significantly reduce lifecycle costs while improving safety and comfort? Poor running dynamics do the opposite: higher wear, rising costs, and reduced passenger experience. At PROSE, we help operators detect and correct issues early through advanced simulations and expert assessments. The result: stable, safe, and efficient operations across all types of rolling stock.

See how PROSE helps operators and manufacturers improve running dynamics and reduce lifecycle costs through advanced simulations, expert assessments, and real-world implementation:

• Running dynamics analysis of rail vehicles: MBS simulation: https://prose.one/running-dynamics-analysis-of-rail-vehicles-mbs-simulation/
• Running dynamics and strength assessment of tramway track components: https://prose.one/load-assumptions-and-strength-analysis-of-tramway-track-components/
• TramTrains: expert assessment for approval: https://prose.one/expert-assessment-running-dynamics-of-tramtrains/

What is the biggest challenge you face in achieving stable, efficient running behaviour across your fleet?

Check out our post on LinkedIn.

Illustration of a modern train on tracks, next to a authorisation icon showing a check mark and document graphic.

Efficient vehicle authorisation processes with PROSE

Getting a vehicle authorised on time matters for every project. If the process is delayed, it can affect schedules, budgets and daily operations. When design, documentation, testing and compliance are aligned early, authorisation becomes more predictable and efficient.

At PROSE, our senior experts bring decades of experience and strong industry networks. We ensure that authorisation is part of the process from day one, so your vehicles are ready for service upon delivery.

Here are some examples of how our authorisation expertise keeps projects moving:

What do you see as the biggest challenge in vehicle authorisation today?

Follow us on LinkedIn.

Integration and Authorisation Management: Polish Train Radio, Radio Stop Module, Interior and Exterior Foliation

Customer: ODIG – Ostdeutsche Instandhaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • Integration engineering of the Polish train radio
  • Integration engineering of the radio stop module
  • Adaptation of the MESA23 system
  • Consideration of the interior and exterior foliation as well as the modification of the train radio system within the verification process
  • Homologation management
  • Authority communication

Our approach

ODEG – Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH operates passenger transport services in northern and eastern Germany. The fleet consists of Desiro Classic (BR 642) multiple units, among others, manufactured by Siemens Mobility (SMO). The maintenance and repair of the vehicles is carried out by ODIG – Ostdeutsche Instandhaltungsgesellschaft mbH. This is a 100% subsidiary of ODEG. The vehicles currently operate with the existing German authorisation and a German train radio system on a section of line that runs over Polish territory. In future, the vehicles will have to be equipped with Polish train radio system and a radio stop module (RSM). The RSM is a device that is connected to the existing train radio system and integrated into the vehicle’s safety loop via an electromagnetic valve. In this way, the responsible dispatcher can give the “radio stop” command, which opens the vehicle’s safety loop and brings the vehicle to a standstill. In addition, interior foliation in the WC and full-surface exterior foliation had to be installed.

The functionality of the existing MESA23 system will be expanded to include operation with Polish train radio and the radio stop module (RSM). The foliations are handled with regard to all requirements.

Customer benefit

Thanks to the cooperation with PROSE, the customer was able to successfully convert the Desiro Classic railcars (BR 642) to use Polish train radio and the radio stop module (FSM). This not only offers ODEG passengers increased safety during the journey, but also enables smooth operation on the section of line through Polish territory. The application of the interior and exterior foils also contributes to the attractive appearance of the vehicles.

PROSE managed the project from the initial idea to the authorization strategy, preparation of evidence documents and coordination with NoBo/DeBo/AsBo through to communication with the authorities, so that ODIG was able to obtain a significant part of the project scope from a single source.

 

    

PROSE qualifies in 43 of 56 service areas at Norske tog AS

We are proud to join Mantena Nordic and Railsupport AS in Norske tog AS’s new framework agreement, qualifying in 43 of 56 service areas. This success is the result of close teamwork, where our railway technology expertise, deep operational insight, and agile approach came together to build a winning proposal.

We will support Norske tog AS by helping to evaluate, analyse, coordinate, and optimise across a wide range of railway technology areas, contributing to safe, efficient, and reliable trains for the future.

Thank you for the trust, Norske tog AS.

Read more here (only in Norwegian): Mantena gjør storeslem i rammeavtale med Norske tog – strategisk samarbeid ga uttelling | Mantena
Interested in what we can do for you? Reach out to your local office or our international department today: Contact – PROSE – Shaping tomorrow’s mobility

Project management and remote monitoring for a Proof of Concept SS-149

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Project Management
  • Project Planning
  • Solution Architecture
  • Requirements Engineering
  • Sourcing
  • Supervision of the supplier’s Installation, Integration, and Commissioning
  • Data analysis and Reporting

Our approach

​Switzerland, as one of the first ETCS-only countries, required all active fleets to monitor malfunctioning Eurobalises, as per a national requirement (NNTR). With the TSI-2023 release, this NNTR had to be transferred and further developed into Subset–149, Online Monitoring System.

In December 2022, when the draft specification of the Subset–149, Online Monitoring System became available, PROSE was appointed by the rail infrastructure manager of Swiss Federal Railway to develop and conduct a Proof of Concept. The goal was to evaluate the suitability and completeness of the proposed protocol.

PROSE developed the system architecture and related requirements for an online monitoring of the MVB bus in the ETCS Onboard Unit (OBU) manufactured by Siemens and installed in a new Stadler FLIRT EMU owned and operated by Schweizerische Südostbahn. Railnova was identified as a suitable supplier and provided the related solution, both onboard (sniffer and gateway), and wayside. PROSE performed integration engineering as well as authorisation support.

Once the solution was in operation, PROSE closely monitored the wayside infrastructure and analysed the data and feedback to correct and improve the DRAFT Subset-149, contributing directly to its current maturity and reliability.

Customer benefit

With the assignment of PROSE, the customer benefits from the extensive experience of PROSE in the field of on-board signalling, ETCS and online monitoring, both wayside and onboard. PROSE’s combination of technical insight, hands-on experience, and understanding of the market landscape contributed to a solution that was both robust and fit-for-purpose. The customer could rely on PROSE to manage the project without needing to build up internal resources. In addition our independent advisory role ensured a neutral perspective, while maintaining alignment between the various stakeholders involved in the project.

 

  

Revitalising Rail Fleets: The Power of Modernisation

Today’s rail fleets must do more than just run; they must evolve with new technologies, fulfill operational requirements, and remain economically viable.

Our latest white paper on fleet strategy and modernisation measures highlights the importance of a well-thought-out fleet strategy covering the entire life cycle. Discover how targeted modernisation can reduce operating and life cycle costs, boost sustainability, and meet evolving requirements.

Whether it’s a refit, retrofit, upgrade, or redesign, every measure needs a solid foundation of technical evaluation, economic analysis, and strategic planning. Our methodology ensures this is possible.

Explore our white paper here (German version in the second half of the document): EN & DE PROSE white paper: Fleet strategy and Modernisation measures

See all PROSE white papers

 

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Authorisation of service vehicles: an underestimated risk?

The revision of the LOC&PAS TSI in 2023 has created a new level of complexity for many stakeholders in the rail sector, especially when it comes to the multinational authorisation of On-track machines.

In the March and April editions of the “Schweizer Eisenbahnrevue”, Stefan Bühler shed light on the resulting challenges and explains why national authorisations are currently often the only viable option, especially for Switzerland and its border routes. His article is now available as a PROSE white paper (in German only).

A key conclusion:

“On track machines must be able to be precisely adapted to tasks. This requires regulations and processes that enable innovative and adaptive solutions.”

At PROSE, we guide manufacturers, infrastructure managers, operators and authorities through these complex processes in an independent, experienced and straight forward manner.

Read the white paper here: PROSE-White Paper _Aktuelle Herausforderungen bei der Zulassung von Dienstfahrzeugen

See all PROSE white papers

info@prose.one

 

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