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Tag: Vehicle Authorisation

Vehicle Authorisation – Our solutions

Modernised lower station of the Leubringen Funicular in Biel, Switzerland, following automation and accessibility upgrades led by PROSE.

Leading the modernisation and automation of the Leubringen Funicular

Customer: Verkehrsbetriebe Biel, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management
  • Client representation
  • Project organisation and governance
  • Stakeholder management
  • Authority coordination (Federal Office of Transport (FOT) and cantonal authorities)
  • Procurement and tender management
  • Schedule, cost and risk management
  • Coordination of civil works, infrastructure and ropeway engineering
  • Quality assurance and project reporting

Our approach

The Leubringen Funicular connects Biel with Evilard and is an important transport link for commuters, residents and visitors in Switzerland. As part of a comprehensive modernisation programme, the line was automated and upgraded to improve safety, reliability, accessibility and long-term operational performance.

The project included the renewal of the control and safety systems, platform screen doors, passenger monitoring, communication and camera systems, as well as the overhaul of the vehicles, drive system, brakes, haul rope and infrastructure. Accessibility improvements were implemented in accordance with the Swiss Disability Discrimination Act (BehiG). All all work was carried out in compliance with ropeway regulations and the requirements of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

PROSE acted as the client’s representative and overall project manager, providing independent leadership throughout the project lifecycle. We established a structured project organisation based on HERMES (Swiss Federal Administration’s standard project management methodology) and SIA (Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects) principles, coordinated multidisciplinary workstreams and managed the interfaces between authorities, suppliers, designers and operators.

Our responsibilities included procurement and contract management, approval support, project communication, quality assurance, and the management of cost, schedule and risk from project initiation through to commissioning.

Customer benefit

By acting as the client’s representative and overall project manager, PROSE provided a single point of coordination across all technical disciplines and stakeholders. Our structured approach reduced project complexity, supported regulatory compliance and enabled informed decision-making throughout the project.

The completed modernisation provides the foundation for higher transport capacity, improved operational reliability, enhanced passenger safety and accessibility while creating the foundation for a longer service life of the Leubringen Funicular. As an independent engineering and consulting partner, PROSE delivered objective technical expertise while safeguarding the client’s interests throughout the project.

 

     

Fault tree diagram showing hazard decomposition into SIL 4–1 functions with logic gates and events for railway safety analysis.

Designing a safety strategy for embedded onboard systems in railway applications

Project tasks

  • Defining Safety Integrity Level (SIL) classification methods across international regulatory frameworks (CSM DT, CENELEC, RSSB, ANSF, ANSI, GOST, SIRF, IEC 61508 risk graph)
  • Describing and applying the interaction between Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA)
  • Developing a structured safety strategy (e.g. top-down and function-oriented approaches) for embedded onboard systems
  • Establishing a safety case concept based on safety-critical and safety-related functions, including visualisation (e.g. Goal Structuring Notation (GSN))
  • Specifying safety evidence documentation, including content, key messages, and effort estimation for Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) approval

Our approach

The project covered the development of a generic application for embedded onboard systems (hardware and software) on rolling stock, intended for use across multiple regions, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, and international markets.

Furthermore, the project included the definition of a safety process and strategy for systems up to Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2), with consideration for scalability to higher integrity levels. The interaction between Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) was described and demonstrated through application examples.

The project also included the determination of suitable SIL classification methods based on applicable regulatory frameworks such as CSM DT, RSSB, ANSF, ANSI, GOST, SIRF, and CENELEC. In addition, the alignment of qualitative and quantitative safety metrics across these standards was also considered.

Relevant directives ((EU) 402/2013, (EU) 2015/1136) and standards (e.g. EN 50129, EN 50716, IEC 61508) defined the regulatory and methodological framework for the safety process and documentation.

PROSE created a comprehensive safety plan covering system, hardware, software, and communication aspects of a generic onboard application. Our approach combined regulatory analysis with practical safety engineering methods, ensuring alignment between international standards and project-specific requirements.

We defined a structured safety demonstration concept, forming the basis for all safety activities and evidence generation. By aligning methodologies such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), we ensured a consistent safety process.

Customer benefit

The safety plan provides a structured foundation for all safety activities throughout the project lifecycle, covering system, hardware, and software levels. It forms a key part of the documentation submitted to the Independent Safety Assessor (ISA), supporting the development and evaluation of the final safety case.

By establishing a harmonised and reusable safety process, the customer can efficiently apply the strategy to future generic applications while ensuring compliance with CENELEC and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards.

The defined safety strategy enables scalability from Basic Integrity up to SIL 4 and supports the development of robust safety cases based on clearly structured safety functions. PROSE’s independent and methodical approach ensures transparency, regulatory compliance, and long-term usability across international markets.

 

      

Train driver cab with diagnostic display screen and control panel inside a FLIRT1 electric multiple unit.

Ensuring long-term availability of FLIRT1 EMUs

Customer: Hessische Landesbahn GmbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • Obsolescence analysis
  • Definition of replacement hardware architecture
  • Software porting to new Compact-PCI platform
  • Linux OS adaptation
  • EMC planning (EN 50121-1)
  • CSM analysis
  • Requirement capture
  • Test specification development
  • Laboratory validation
  • Prototype retrofit support (on-site)
  • Creation of retrofit documentation
  • Support during fleet rollout

Our approach

The FLIRT1 Electric Multiple Units (EMU) operated by Hessische Landesbahn GmbH were equipped with a Compact-PCI diagnostic computer that became obsolete and unavailable on the market.

The diagnostic computer records vehicle events and fault logs while displaying failure messages and troubleshooting guid-ance to the driver. Although the system is not safety-relevant, it is operationally essential for efficient maintenance and fleet availability.

Due to increasing component ageing and an expected rise in hardware failures, the obsolete unit had to be replaced by a successor model with full functional equivalence. The validated vehicle software architecture needed to remain unchanged, in order to classify the measure as maintenance acc. to (EU) 2016/797.

PROSE developed a risk-minimised hardware migration concept that preserved the existing vehicle software architecture.

We replaced the obsolete MEN Compact-PCI computer with a Duagon Compact-PCI successor model and ported the existing application software to the new platform. The Linux operating system environment was adapted to ensure identical system behaviour.

We implemented necessary interface adjustments without changing the validated vehicle software architecture. Our scope included:

  • Porting and validation of the application software
  • Creation of installation images
  • Development of test specification
  • Execution of a Common Safety Method (CSM) analysis
  • Requirement capture documentation
  • Preparation of an Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) plan according to EN 50121-1
  • Laboratory validation and on-site prototype verification

We implemented and validated a prototype retrofit as the basis for a seamless fleet-wide rollout. In close collaboration with a specialised software partner, we ensured efficient implementation and full technical traceability.

Customer benefit

Hessische Landesbahn secured the long-term availability of its FLIRT1 fleet without functional changes or impact on the validated vehicle software architecture.

The reuse of the existing installation space reduced retrofit effort and vehicle downtime. The structured CSM process and comprehensive documentation ensured regulatory compliance and full technical traceability.

Through a structured engineering approach and comprehensive documentation, PROSE ensured regulatory compliance, tech-nical traceability and a reliable basis for long-term fleet opera-tion. Our independence from original equipment manufacturers enabled a pragmatic, lifecycle-oriented solution focused on availability and maintainability. A successfully validated prototype forms the basis for the fleet roll-out currently being prepared.

 

      

Driver operating a modern high-speed train cab with digital controls, representing advanced railway systems and certification processes.

Establishing a structured framework for TSI certification and authorisation

Training provided for:

  • TSI certification (NoBo) system for locomotives, passenger rolling stocks and freight wagons
  • NNTR certification (DeBo) and risk assessment (AsBo) systems for locomotives, passenger rolling stocks and freight wagons
  • Risk assessment (AsBo) systems
  • Access process for railway products to the European Union
  • EC certificate system and standard for European Union rolling stock equipment and products

Our approach

The project addressed the need to strengthen organisational knowledge and capability in relation to Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) certification and the accreditation process for acting as a Notified Body (NoBo). The customer is involved in high-speed rail systems and required a structured understanding of authorisation processes applicable to rolling stock and infrastructure projects.

Increasing regulatory complexity and evolving European authorisation requirements made it necessary to build internal competence in certification workflows, roles, and responsibilities. The objective of the project was to establish a clear, practical and reliable framework for understanding, structuring, and managing TSI-related authorisation activities across different project types.

PROSE delivered interactive, on-site training workshops tailored to the customer’s specific role and regulatory context. Our approach combined structured theoretical input with practical examples drawn from real TSI certification and authorisation projects across the European railway sector.

Key elements of the TSI framework, the NNTRs, the CSM Regulation, the role of a Notified Body (NoBo), a Designated Body (DeBo), an Independent Assessment Body (AsBo), and typical certification and authorisation processes were explained step by step and discussed in detail with the participants. Throughout the workshops, PROSE addressed customer-specific questions and scenarios, ensuring direct applicability to ongoing and future activities.

Customer benefit

Through its collaboration with PROSE, the client gained a clear, structured and practical understanding of the certification and approval processes in accordance with the TSI, NNTR and other safety regulations. The training strengthened internal competence and confidence in dealing with regulatory requirements and interactions with external stakeholders.

PROSE’s independent position and broad industry experience ensured an objective and practice-oriented perspective, grounded in real-world railway projects. This enabled the customer to build sustainable internal know-how, reduce dependency on external clarification, and establish a solid foundation for future certification and accreditation activities.

TILO FLIRT train of SBB in Switzerland during service life extension project, modern electric multiple unit on track.

Vehicle life extension TILO FLIRT

Customer: SBB, Switzerland

Project tasks

  • Overall project management of the TILO FLIRT service life extension
  • Project reporting to the steering committee
  • Project planning and realisation of the detailed concept phase
  • Funding application ARPV
  • Project planning and implementation of the realisation phase
  • Leading the SBB project team

Our approach

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates 54 Flirt trains with TILO. These trains were purchased in five phases between 2007 and 2020 and were designed for a service life of 25 years. In order to be able to replace all TILO Flirt trains simultaneously as part of a new procurement project, SBB plans to extend the service life of the two oldest sub-fleets to 32 years.

PROSE is responsible for the overall management of the project to extend the service life of the TILO train fleet. Over 2 ½ years, we led a dedicated project team within SBB, ensuring seamless collaboration between customer requirements, technology, development, production, quality, and supply chain management.

A key milestone was the detailed concept phase, where PROSE’s structured approach ensured that requirements management, technical concept development, and prototype conversion were all completed on time and within budget. Our expertise in certification played a crucial role in securing the necessary licences for both Switzerland and Italy, a fundamental step in keeping the project on track.
PROSE also spearheaded the successful funding application (ARPV) to the responsible cantons and the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), securing approval to finance the conversion of the entire fleet of 30 trains.

During the production phase, we worked closely with the SBB production plant to ensure a smooth transition to series conversion. With production successfully underway, PROSE carefully handed over the project to SBB, ensuring continued progress and a reliable future for the TILO fleet.

Customer benefit

With PROSE as a partner, the customer benefits from comprehensive expertise in the areas of project management, stakeholder management, project planning, change management and cost control. An entrepreneurial approach, sound technical knowledge, but also knowledge of SBB processes and organisation are essential for successful project implementation.

Beyond technical know-how, our understanding of SBB’s processes and organisation was a key factor in keeping the project on track. By working with PROSE, the customer was able to bridge resource gaps, tap into our extensive railway industry network, and benefit from independent, expert advice that led to a successful project outcome.

 

    

Assessing locomotive compatibility on an SJ Rc6 electric locomotive in Sweden, showing roof-mounted pantographs and high-voltage equipment at a station platform.

Assessing locomotive compatibility under increased overhead line voltage

Customer: SJ AB, Sweden
End customer: Trafikverket, Sweden

Project tasks

  • Technical investigation
  • Documentation research
  • Identification of possible changes in locomotive high-voltage circuits
  • Cost estimation of the changes
  • Integration of the changes in the actual system

Our approach

PROSE began with a structured review of the Rc6 high-voltage system, analysing design documentation, component specifications, and historical modification records to establish the vehicle’s current technical baseline. Based on this analysis, we evaluated the impact of the increased maximum voltage on insulation coordination, component voltage margins, and protection systems. Where necessary, we developed alternative technical solutions to ensure compliance with the new operating conditions. Each option was assessed from both a technical and economic perspective, including feasibility, implementation effort, operational implications, and associated risks. The work was carried out in close dialogue with SJ as operator and Trafikverket as infrastructure owner to ensure transparency and alignment throughout the project.

Customer benefit

The customer gained a transparent and technically sound decision basis for operating the Rc6 fleet under increased overhead line voltage. Our independent assessment clarified voltage margins, component limitations, and protection requirements, creating full visibility of technical risks and modification needs.
By systematically comparing refurbishment scenarios, including cost and implementation implications, we enabled SJ and Trafikverket to prioritise measures based on safety, operational reliability, and long-term investment protection. With PROSE’s in-depth knowledge of Swedish rolling stock and infrastructure interfaces, the operators secured a technically robust and future-proof solution aligned with updated network standards.

 

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.

 

    

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.

 

          

Vehicle Authorisation

Customer: various customers

Project tasks

  • Carrying out requirements capture and preparing the safety evaluation, including risk analysis
  • Preparation and management of evidence documents
  • Cooperation and coordination of NoBo, DeBo and AsBo
  • Support in preparing several declarations and dealing with online registers like ERATV or ERADIS
  • Management of the change notification to the ERA or national safety authorities like EBA for changes not requiring an authorisation
  • Management of authorisation applications via One Stop Shop to the ERA for changes requiring authorisation
  • Coordination with the ERA and national safety authority

Our Approach

Vehicle operators or leasing companies make changes to their vehicles for very different reasons, e.g. for obsolescence reasons or to offer passengers a better service by customising the interior and adding features such as sockets or WLAN. In addition to providing engineering services, PROSE supports such projects by taking over the entire approval management process, including communication with all the bodies and authorities involved.

The authorisation process ensures safe rail transport and the best possible interoperability throughout the EU. However, implementing changes to rolling stock presents a significant challenge to operators, keepers, and owners.

At PROSE, we recognise that each railway vehicle is unique. Our team of experts develops vehicle authorisation strategies that address the specific challenges of our customer’s products and needs. From Requirements Capture to One Stop Shop, our experts have the knowledge to guide you through the process. Whether you only need assistance with a single task or are looking for a complete solution, we can provide solutions to meet your particular requirements.

Customer benefit

Modernisations and retrofits guarantee enhanced reliability and superior passenger comfort and open up new applications by integrating new systems. Whilst operators and workshops can focus on their primary tasks, PROSE can handle all the “paperwork” from the engineering and the preparation of evidence documents to the assessment and authorisation phases with bodies and authorities involved. Due to our comprehensive service portfolio, we help reduce interfaces and effort because all services are coordinated and come from a single source.

PROSE ensures that our customers’ railway vehicles comply with the latest standards and regulations. From document preparation to submission, we make sure that vehicle approval hurdles don’t derail your success.

 

      

Authorisation Management – Change of Radio Devices

Customer: various costumers

Project tasks

  • Integration of the new radio device
  • Implementation of additional country-specific equipment for operation outside Germany
  • Requirements capture and safety evaluation
  • Preparation and structuring of evidence documentation
  • Management of the different bodies (NoBos, DeBos, AsBos)
  • Support with the several declarations to be issued
  • Support with ERADIS and ERATV
  • Management of the application at the involved authorities (ERA and NSAs

Our Approach

As Germany’s largest railway infrastructure company, DB InfraGO wants to switch off analogue train radio on many routes. This means that vehicle operators are obliged to retrofit their vehicles with GSM-R digital train radio if they do not yet have the appropriate equipment.

For the first time since the introduction of the 4th railway package, many vehicle operators have been faced with the task of carrying out vehicle modifications that require authorisation. Many small and medium-sized regional transport companies do not have the capacity to deal with the complex authorisation processes and are reliant on external support.

PROSE responds individually to vehicle operators’ needs and provides support throughout the entire chain, from the specification of the required radio equipment to the receipt of the new authorisation in precisely those areas where the vehicle operator has a need.

PROSE determines the individual project requirements for each customer enquiry. The customer’s preliminary work and the desired in-house services are taken into account, and clear interfaces are created so that the project realisation runs hand in hand. The flexibility to respond to short-term customer requests to increase or reduce the project scope is a matter of course for us.

Customer benefit

Due to the large number of projects in this area, we have very good contacts with several bodies and authorities, which enables uncomplicated coordination even before the project begins. In regional transport, where operators often belong to a group, PROSE provides strategic advice on the selection of the proposer, the entity managing the change and the workshops, taking into account several points to keep the overall project costs arising from assessments, audits etc. as low as possible and to be able to exploit synergies, e.g. in cases where different operators of the group operate the same vehicle serie. The operators can focus on their core business and do not even have to take part in the coordination rounds with the authorising entity and/or national safety authorities during the authority’s application assessment phase, as PROSE can do this for the operators on request using a power of attorney.

Authorisation Support – Repainting of ET425.5 EMUs

Customer: Transdev Hannover GmbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • Project management
  • Requirements capture
  • Authorisation support
  • Communication with NoBo and DeBo
  • Preparation of evidence and admission documents
  • Preparation of a change notification

Our Approach

Transdev Hannover GmbH changed the existing colour scheme of 13 EMUs of the type ET425.5 from the Deutsche Bahn “Verkehrsrot” to the Transdev branding in blue and white. PROSE supported with authorisation management concerning TSI LOC&PAS, TSI PRM and German NNTR as well as requirements capture and evidence documents. The main obstacle was to find a way to establish the evidence documents of the fire protection as no spare parts existed to conduct the necessary experiments.

Due to the great experience and good networking within the industry, it was possible to agree on a feasible way of proving fire protection with the assessment bodies as early as the tendering phase. In combination with the close support of the customer in every phase of the project, loops or lengthy discussions could be avoided.

Customer benefit

PROSE led Transdev Hannover through the authorisation process including communication with the assessment bodies and project management. This ultimately resulted in the timely submission of the documents and rapid final processing by the national safety authority (EBA) including the final “Go”.

 

 

Expert report for approval of new trams in Dortmund

Customer: HeiterBlick GmbH, Germany

Project tasks

  • ​Assessment of running dynamics

Our Approach

For the approval of the new trams of the operator DSW21 in Dortmund, the manufacturer HeiterBlick GmbH in Leipzig commissioned the EBA-approved expert Stefan Bühler to assess the running dynamic behaviour according to the regulations for trams in Germany, BOStrab.

The new vehicles have been authorised and in operation since April 2024. Modernised vehicles will be assessed in a further phase.

​PROSE agreed on the scope of verification with the technical supervisory authority of North Rhine-Westphalia (TAB NRW) and the manufacturer HeiterBlick GmbH. Dr Johannes Keudel, a specialist in running dynamics simulations, supported Stefan Bühler in the assessment of the provided evidence. Finally, the expert report was drawn up.

Customer benefit

It is essential for the customer that the authorities accept the assessors. Thanks to the appraisal team’s high level of expertise, the customer HeiterBlick GmbH knew precisely what evidence he had to provide and in what form. For this reason and thanks to the high level of customer orientation of the PROSE team, the expert report could be prepared quickly and in good quality. Although the input on this specialist area was only available very late, this hardly caused any delay to the authorization of the trams.

 

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