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Author: Livia In-Albon

Finding potential suppliers for X10 bearing

Customer: Stadler Service Sweden AB, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Documentation review
  • Risk assessment
  • Specification update
  • Procurement management

Our approach

On behalf of Stadler Service AB, PROSE conducted a detailed preliminary study to identify reliable suppliers for an obsolete slewing ring bearing for the X10 trains. Given the challenges posed by the obsolescence of the existing components, this project aims to ensure sustainable sourcing solutions and support the long-term maintenance and availability of the train units.

In the first step, PROSE reviewed the customer’s existing relevant documentation and updated the requirement specifications according to the increased mechanical loads. In the second step, we identified and contacted several potential suppliers from within and outside Europe and discussed possible solutions in terms of both technical feasibility and cost efficiency.

Customer benefit

PROSE provided the client with a report containing a shortlist of potential suppliers and their respective offers. To assist the client in rapidly selecting a supplier, PROSE added its assessment of the suppliers and the corresponding offers as well as a subsequent recommendation.

 

  

How well prepared is the railway industry for cybersecurity? 

Digitalisation in the rail sector is progressing rapidly and the challenges in cybersecurity are growing with it. Many companies are faced with the question: how can IT systems and infrastructures be effectively protected when existing standards only offer limited guidance? 

As part of a specialised cybersecurity awareness workshop, PROSE shed light on current challenges and proven solutions. Together with the participants, we analysed the status quo, compared security strategies with current standards and developed concrete next steps. 

We focussed in particular on three key questions: 

  • How can companies prepare for new specifications such as NIS-2 or IEC 62443? 
  • Are the roles and responsibilities in projects clearly defined or does this unintentionally create security gaps? 
  • How can cybersecurity be ensured across the entire value chain? 

With targeted analyses and practical recommendations, we support our customers in anchoring cybersecurity as an integral part of their digital strategy. Threats are constantly evolving – it’s high time we did the same. 

Insights into the procurement of service vehicles

In the latest issue of ‘Swiss Railway Review’ (Schweizer Eisenbahn-Revue Heft 03/2025), our PROSE-experts Chantal Pietsch and Yves Kohler shed light on the complex process of procuring service vehicles for transport companies and infrastructure operators.

Here are the key take aways:

  • Identifying the specific requirements for different types of company vehicles is critical to ensuring efficiency and sustainability in operations
  • Strategic financial planning is essential to enable procurement without compromising on quality and technical progress
  • Keeping up with the latest technological developments can significantly extend the service life of service vehicles
  • After procurement, a well-planned maintenance and training schedule is essential to maximise the life and effectiveness of the vehicles

Many thanks to Müller Technologie AG and ZAUGG AG EGGIWIL for providing the pictures in our article.

We are happy to share more insights on how we address the everyday challenges of procurement. Reach out to find out more: https://prose.one/contact/

Investigation on European EMU brake systems

Customer: leading international brake equipment manufacturer

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Requirements capture
  • Concept development
  • System integration

Our approach

The project aimed to assist a leading international brake equipment manufacturer in navigating the complex landscape of European brake system regulations, generic design principles, and requirements for brake certification. The primary challenge was to provide the manufacturer with a consistent and clear understanding of these regulations to facilitate the development and certification of their brake systems for the European market. This support was crucial for ensuring compliance with stringent European safety standards and improving the manufacturer’s competitive edge in the international market.

Based on publicly available information and own experiences, PROSE provided a comprehensive investigation report with following main chapters:

  • European and American design philosophy and safety principles for emergency braking in EMU
  • Brake performance of current EMU train designs in Europe
  • Redundancy on emergency braking command and functions
  • Emergency Braking according EN 16185-1 and EN 15734-1
  • Brake system requirements for EMUs according to European TSI regulations
  • Brake system control signal according to EN 15611:2020

Customer benefit

As a result of this project, PROSE’s customer obtained an in-depth and detailed understanding of the general requirements and best practices associated with European EMU brake design. This comprehensive insight enabled the manufacturer to align their products with European standards, thereby enhancing their ability to meet certification requirements. Additionally, the detailed investigation report served as a valuable reference for the customer’s engineering and design teams, facilitating informed decision-making and innovation in brake system design. Overall, the project significantly boosted the customer’s capability to produce compliant, reliable, and competitive brake systems for the European rail market.

 

      

X61-X62 Delivery Projects last Technical Issues and Deviation Management

Customer: AB Transitio, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Resolve technical issues
  • Manage X61-X62 documentation
  • Support Rolling Stock Managers
  • Handle Regina, Itino, X61-X62, X11-14 deviations
  • Coordinate with stakeholders

Our approach

​As AB Transitio has successfully completed three key projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—PROSE is tasked with addressing and resolving all remaining technical and documentation issues, problems, and questions. Additionally, we are responsible for managing all deviations across AB Transitio’s six vehicle fleets, including Regina, X11-14, Itino, Coradia X61-X62, OUT, and Dosto ER1, ensuring that each is processed in accordance with AB Transitio’s established routines and policies.

Our approach involves providing the customer with comprehensive solutions to close all remaining technical and documentation issues for the three completed projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—by December 31, 2024. In addition, we are committed to supporting and enhancing AB Transitio’s deviation management process, ensuring that all deviations are properly addressed and implemented. We will also ensure that any change requests arising from these deviations are accompanied by the necessary information and documentation.

Customer benefit

AB Transitio had the opportunity to benefit from PROSE’s extensive knowledge and experience. By following this approach, the customer will be able to fully close all three projects—X61 Västtrafik, X61 Östgötatrafiken, and X62 Norrtåg—by the end of 2024, achieving 100% project completion. Additionally, they will benefit from an ongoing, quality-driven process that effectively manages all deviations, ensuring consistent and reliable handling of any issues that arise.

 

Validation Maintenace activities- Mälartåg

Customer: AB Transitio, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Validation of the maintenance process

Our approach

Transitio, as the owner, and MTR, as the operator of the Mälartåg trains, are responsible for validating the maintenance processes. This validation serves to complete the maintenance instructions and identify efficiency improvements in the maintenance processes. The train manufacturer Stadler is obliged to fulfil the contractually agreed specifications to ensure that maintenance is carried out to the highest standards.

The validation of the maintenance process is divided into five main phases:

  • Requirements planning and definition: This is where requirements are determined and clearly defined.
  • Definition of specifications and configurations: In this phase, the exact specifications and configurations are determined.
  • Verification: This phase serves to carefully review the previously defined specifications and configurations.
  • Utilisation: After the definition of requirements, design and qualification, which includes testing and commissioning, the utilisation phase follows. During this phase, continuous checks are made to ensure that the validated status is maintained. This is usually the longest phase and aims to ensure that the defined standards are continuously met throughout the entire service life.
  • Decommissioning: The final phase involves the orderly decommissioning of the system while maintaining the documented standards until the end.

The aim of this structured procedure is to maximise efficiency and safety.

Customer benefit

Monitoring the initial qualification of devices and compliance with defined processes during the utilisation phase are essential. This enables effective process verification, which allows potential deviations to be recognised at an early stage. In this way, preventive measures can be taken before deviations occur. This preventive monitoring and early correction make a significant contribution to maintaining the quality and reliability of operational processes.

 

     

Senior Consultant Rolling Stock (m/w/d)

PROSE ist eines der führenden Unternehmen in Europa im Bereich des Mobility Engineering. Wir sind ein internationales Team, das Projekte “von A bis Z” in den Bereichen des Schienenfahrzeug-Retrofits, der Entwicklung von Neufahrzeugen, Teilsystemen und Komponenten sowie der technischen Beratung umsetzt.

Unser Ziel ist es, die Mobilität von Morgen zu gestalten. Hierfür suchen wir eine(n) Senior Consultant Rolling Stock (60-100%), um uns am Standort Bern oder Winterthur beim Erreichen dieses Ziels zu unterstützen. Kreativ, motiviert und einfallsreich – wir suchen eine selbstorganisierte und kommunikative Persönlichkeit, die unser Team ergänzt.

Als Consultant verantworten Sie kleine und mittlere Projekte und Mandate im Mobilitätsbereich primär gegenüber unseren Kunden im In- und Ausland. Das beinhaltet die Unterstützung des Verkaufs während der Akquisitionsphase, die Gewährleistung des erfolgreichen Projektmanagements und der Qualitätssicherung entlang des Lebenszyklus der Fahrzeuge (Entwicklung, Betrieb & Instandhaltung, Modernisierung). Je nach Erfahrung und persönlicher Neigung führen Sie kleinere und mittlere Projektteams in unseren Beratungsschwerpunkte Strategie, Beschaffung, Zulassung, Signalling und ATO, Entwicklung, Instandhaltung oder Modernisierung.

Wir erwarten von Ihnen
  • Da unsere Passion Shaping tomorrow’s mobility ist, vertrauen wir darauf, dass dies auch Ihre Passion ist. Um den Kundenbedarf nach innovativen Lösungen zu erfüllen, müssen auch Sie einfallsreich sein.
  • Als Consultant in unserem Team sind Sie professionell, kommunikativ und selbstorganisiert. Unsere Mitarbeitenden sind selbstgetrieben, hochmotiviert und grossartige Teamkollegen.
  • Sie verfügen über ausgewiesene Erfahrungen in der Bahnbranche und möchten diese gern thematisch erweitern.
  • Technischer Hochschulabschluss mit mehrjähriger praktischer Erfahrung in der Entwicklung oder im Betrieb von Schienenfahrzeugen, betriebswirtschaftliche Weiterbildung von Vorteil.
  • Exzellente Kenntnisse in Deutsch (Muttersprache) und fliessend in Englisch. Bestenfalls auch in Französisch und jede zusätzliche Fremdsprache ist von Vorteil.
Was Sie von uns erwarten können
  • Ausgeprägte Entrepreneur Kultur: In der Branche einmalige Gestaltungsfreiheit und Entscheidungskompetenz.
  • Flexibler Arbeitsort / Work anywhere: wir offerieren moderne Arbeitsplätze im Herzen der Städte Bern oder Winterthur, in Kombination mit Homeoffice und Arbeit beim Kunden vor Ort.
  • Vielseitigkeit, kein Projekt gleicht dem anderen.
  • Ein engagiertes und internationales Team von Bahnexperten.

 

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Über PROSE

Bei PROSE kombinieren wir Fachwissen, Innovation und Unabhängigkeit, um erstklassige Lösungen im Bereich der Bahntechnik zu liefern. Als vertrauenswürdiger Partner im Bereich Schienenfahrzeugtechnik und Eisenbahnberatung unterstützen wir Hersteller, Betreiber und Behörden bei der Bewältigung ihrer Herausforderungen – überall auf der Welt.

Mit einem Team von über 150 engagierten Fachleuten und einer Präsenz in der Schweiz, Deutschland, Schweden, Italien, Frankreich und Österreich sind wir bestrebt, die Mobilität von morgen zu gestalten.

Seit unserer Gründung im Jahr 1982 haben wir uns mit über 5’000 erfolgreichen Projekten einen Namen als zuverlässiger Partner für die Bereitstellung innovativer Mobilitätslösungen weltweit gemacht.

Expert Consulting for the SJ High-Speed Train X2000 Upgrade

Customer: Swedish State Railwyas (SJ), Sweden

Project tasks

  • Upgrade of the drive system
  • Updating the Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS)
  • Coordination and support for the modernisation of the exterior door system
  • Interior refurbishment of the passenger carriages
  • Test and verification

Our approach

​Swedish State Railways (SJ) is launching a comprehensive modernisation programme for its fleet of 36 X2000 passenger trains, which have been in service for over three decades. This extensive project includes a number of important modernisations designed to improve performance, reliability and passenger comfort. The scope of the modernisation includes a complete overhaul of the trains’ propulsion system to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In addition, the Train Control and Monitoring System (TCMS) will be upgraded to the latest railway technology to ensure better operational control and safety. The refurbishment also extends to the exterior doors. In addition, the interior of the passenger coaches will be extensively renovated to provide a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing travelling experience. These improvements are aimed at extending the service life of the trains and adapting them to current technical and ecological standards.

PROSE is playing a central role in the realisation of this ambitious project by consulting SJ and its suppliers with a range of services. Our approach is based on a comprehensive project management strategy that includes project coordination and technical planning. We are also involved in rigorous testing and inspection phases to ensure that all retrofits meet the stringent standards expected in modern passenger rail transport. Our team consists of experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of railway systems who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project. By integrating seamlessly with SJ’s operations, we facilitate effective communication and coordination between all stakeholders, proactively address challenges and ensure that project milestones are met efficiently. Our holistic approach ensures that from initial design to final implementation, every aspect of the project is handled with precision and care.

Customer benefit

By entrusting PROSE with this extensive modernisation project, Swedish State Railways (SJ) has gained access to a team of highly experienced experts with a deep understanding of the complexities of modernising outdated train fleets. Our involvement ensures the project runs smoothly and effectively, maximising the potential for on-time and on-budget delivery. Our expertise helps to anticipate potential issues and mitigate risks to ensure that the modernised trains meet current and future rail transport requirements. Immediate benefits for SJ include improved train performance and increased passenger satisfaction. Ultimately, this project supports SJ’s goals of improving operational efficiency and providing a superior travel experience, reinforcing the company’s reputation as a leader in sustainable and innovative rail transport solutions.

 

 

Design and authorisation strategy for a rail-bound maintenance machine

Customer: SCHÖMA, Germany

Project tasks

  • Vehicle authorisation strategy
  • Design assurance (Systems Engineering)
  • Concept development
  • Technical evaluation of offers and technical coordination with suppliers
  • Project management

Our approach

SCHÖMA plans to develop a proven, powered, three-part rail-bound maintenance machine with cab, loading platform and crane called HERO. SCHÖMA needs support in developing the authorisation strategy to fulfil the EN 14033 standards and in defining the design process including verification and validation.

PROSE developed the decision-making basis for the authorisation process enabling a defined combination of the three vehicles of the working machine to be approved and the verifications and evidence according to EN 14033 to be provided. PROSE also supported SCHÖMA in the budget planning phase of the development of the HERO work machine in the evaluation of supplier offers for systems and components such as the power train, braking system, power generation, train protection (ETCS) and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). In addition, PROSE defined the design phases and the design assurance process according to the systems engineering methodology to ensure a defined and structured design process.

Customer benefit

PROSE has structured and optimised SCHÖMA’s development process by systematically applying the system engineering methodology. This approach has not only minimised development risks associated with costs and timelines but has crucially enhanced the predictability and likelihood of obtaining the necessary authorisation.

 

          

Digitalisation of maintenance requirements

Customer: SBB Historic, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Research: Review and analysis of the existing documentation (e.g., old regulations)
  • Expert Interviews: Enrichment of the database with know-how from specialists
  • Documentation: Creation of maintenance plans for the 14 rail vehicles and 3-4 wagon fleets
  • Approval: Incorporation of client feedback and final adjustments

Framework conditions:

  • Utilisation of old regulations as the basis
  • Supplementation through reverse engineering and other methods to address data gaps
  • Collaboration with the client, particularly in providing knowledge and feedback

Our approach

The project was initiated by SBB Historic to gradually align the existing maintenance organisation and fleet management with European standards. The core challenge lies in transforming a fragmented documentation base. Many of the historic vehicles have only partially available operational and maintenance manuals, as the original manufacturers either no longer exist or the documentation has been lost over time.

Additionally, the introduction of the ZEDAS maintenance software is intended to support and future-proof the maintenance processes. The project aims to create a consistent and standard-compliant maintenance plan landscape for the historic rail vehicles, enabling efficient, safe, and resource-conscious maintenance. At the same time, the transition will ensure compliance with European norms and facilitate maintenance activities carried out by in-house teams, associations, and third parties.

To achieve these objectives, PROSE adopts a structured approach comprising several interconnected work steps. The process begins with extensive research, focusing on reviewing and analysing old maintenance regulations to compile and prepare existing content. Subsequently, PROSE conducts expert interviews to incorporate historical knowledge from specialists, fill existing gaps, or update outdated guidelines. Based on this, maintenance plans are developed for the 14 rail vehicles and three to four wagon fleets. These plans are created iteratively, incorporating client feedback to ensure a tailored solution. Finally, the plans are integrated into the new maintenance concept and adapted to the requirements of the ZEDAS software.

The PROSE team, consisting of experienced experts, guarantees a professional and quality-orientated implementation. If necessary, the team is supported by other experts to ensure the quality and efficiency of the implementation.

Customer benefit

The project provides the client with numerous advantages that go beyond merely developing maintenance plans. By establishing a consistent, standards-compliant planning framework, the maintenance of historic vehicles can be carried out safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. The integration of existing regulations and the supplementation of missing content through expert interviews not only reduces time and financial expenditure but also ensures that the plans are highly practical and relevant.

Another significant benefit lies in the introduction of the ZEDAS maintenance software, a key component for future digitalisation and optimisation of processes. The combination of technical and operational expertise provided by PROSE ensures that the plans are seamlessly integrated into the new software ecosystem, creating a high level of efficiency and transparency.

With transparent pricing and an agreed cost ceiling, the project remains financially predictable and manageable. At the same time, SBB Historic and the participating organisations benefit from PROSE’s extensive experience and proven competence. PROSE delivers tailored and sustainable solutions in the railway sector. The outcome is not only technically flawless but also an economically viable solution that guarantees the long-term safe operation of the historic fleet.

 

 

General Contract of Use for freight wagons (GCU) in Railway Undertakings (RU)

Customer: SBB Cargo, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Analyse the current state, identify weaknesses and strengths, and document responsibilities and workflows
  • Develop a target model with clear responsibilities, efficient processes, and the use of new digital tools such as the GCU-Broker
  • Implement the new processes, including employee training and the establishment of overarching responsibility for GCU

Our Approach

The project to optimise the GCU (General Contract of Use for freight wagons) tasks within SBB Cargo’s RU (Railway Undertaking) role addressed the growing demands of European freight transport and the increasing expectations for legal and process compliance. The primary goal was to establish a clear and robust organisation of responsibilities within the RU role, meeting both the requirements of the GCU and relevant EU regulations. This realignment was achieved through a systematic review of existing processes and structures. Key challenges included the precise delineation of roles between the railway undertaking and the wagon keeper, as defined by the GCU provisions. In particular, the requirements arising from oversight by the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) necessitated reorganisation, as unclear responsibilities had previously hindered audit outcomes.

Additionally, action was required for key operational processes such as the re-commissioning of freight wagons after repairs, the verification of GCU-compliant wagons within train formations, and the retrieval of technical wagon data from third-party keepers. These areas are critical for ensuring safety and quality standards. At the same time, the entire scope of GCU tasks is subject to increasing regulation, which will be further intensified by the BAV (Federal Office of Transport in Switzerland) from 2026 onwards. To meet these demands, SBB Cargo’s internal processes must not only become more efficient but also legally sound.

The project was implemented in multiple phases. In the first phase, the current state of GCU tasks was documented, and key strengths and weaknesses were identified. This analysis was completed by May 2024. Building on this, by August 2024, a target process was developed that defines clear responsibilities, optimises existing workflows and incorporates digital solutions such as the GCU-Broker. This tool is intended to replace the manual processing of damage reports, thereby modernising data exchange. Starting in January 2025, the target process will be implemented, with a focus on appointing a central overall responsibility for GCU tasks, covering both strategic and operational duties. The project team included PROSE internal experts and external consultants from BAHNVERSTAND, who provided methodological support and strategic recommendations.

Customer benefit

​The implementation of the project delivers significant benefits for customers through more efficient and reliable handling of GCU tasks. Clear responsibilities and improved processes reduce delays and enhance legal certainty in operations. The integration of digital solutions, such as the GCU-Broker, lowers administrative costs and accelerates data exchange. Furthermore, compliance with new legal requirements, particularly EU and FOT regulations, ensures long-term legal security and minimises liability risks. Overall, the project strengthens SBB Cargo’s position in the European freight transport market and ensures sustainable future viability.

 

3rd party assessment of exterior camera installation

Customer: MTR Tech, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Assessment of proposed and installed solutions of camera installation
  • Highlighting risks and deviations from industry standards and recommendations

Our Approach

MTR has operated and maintained the X60 Coradia fleet on behalf of the Stockholm Region until 2024. The region has ordered installation of cameras from Alstom to support the drivers and improve visibility around the door-area, particularly on platforms with curved tracks.

PROSE has extensive experience in mechanical and electrical design as well as design processes, especially in adhesive bonding. Based on our expertise, an iterative assessment process has taken place to assess the proposed and installed solution. It includes recommendations in line with industry best practice for both mechanical design and bonding – as well as design and processes – in accordance with EN17460.

Customer benefit

​Adding additional equipment to an existing fleet without impacting the basic design requires experience and know-how about production methods and the original design. With PROSE as an independent assessor, the client received an independent assessment of the proposed and installed solution as well as the identification of potential short- and long-term risks in the proposed design of both the bonded joints and the mechanical parts.

 

      

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