Technology is central to the development of the rail industry.
As new technologies become integrated into the national infrastructure, it is critical that companies from all corners of the sector are able to harness the power of those innovations, understand them, and contribute to the development of a new era for the railway.
To help pass on some expert insights, Rail Technology Magazine and Hitachi Rail hosted the Technology in Rail 2026 online conference bringing together those with key knowledge and expertise from across the UK rail industry.
Opening keynote
Technology is becoming an integral part of every industry, and the railway sector is no exception. In the opening keynote of the online conference, we delved into the advancements that are set to transform the railway experience for passengers and operators alike. The keynote was delivered by Simon Scott, the Technical and Innovations Director at the Railway Industry Association, as he sheds light on the exciting developments in railway technology.
The session began with a focus on the signalling systems that govern train movements. These technologies, often hidden from the public eye, are crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency across the network. Simon explained how modern signalling systems not only enhance capacity but also improve reliability, allowing for faster and more efficient train operations.
As we navigate through the discussion, the role of satellites in monitoring railway infrastructure is highlighted. With climate change posing new challenges, satellites provide a means to predict and manage assets more effectively. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining safety and reliability in the face of increasing temperature ranges and environmental stressors.
Artificial Intelligence was another key topic of conversation. Simon emphasised that AI should be viewed as a tool to assist railway operators in making quicker and better decisions, rather than a replacement for human expertise. The complexity of the railway system makes AI an invaluable asset, helping to streamline operations and enhance overall performance.
Simon’s speech also touched on the significance of 5G technology in handling the vast amounts of data generated by these systems. With the integration of AI and advanced CCTV, the volume of data can be overwhelming. However, 5G provides the necessary infrastructure to manage this data effectively, leading to improved customer experiences and operational efficiency.
As the session unfolded, Simon challenged the audience to consider the broader implications of introducing new technology. It’s not just about the tech itself; it’s about the people and processes that must adapt alongside these innovations. The railway industry is at a turning point, with the introduction of Great British Railways poised to reshape the landscape. This restructuring presents a unique opportunity to break down barriers and foster collaboration across the sector.
The Digital Railway: Unlocking capacity and safety through modern signalling
In the first, we delved into the critical topic of digital signalling and its transformative potential within the UK rail network. With rising demand and the pressing need for decarbonisation, the shift from legacy signalling systems to modern digital solutions is more important than ever. The expert panel, featuring Jessica Linhart, Ged Neancy, Susan Millington, and Matthew Teller, discussed the significant challenges and opportunities that come with this transition.
One of the primary topics of conversation was the integrated nature of digital signalling. As Matthew Teller highlighted, the successful implementation of digital systems requires collaboration among suppliers, operators, and infrastructure managers. It's not just about upgrading signalling technology; it involves a comprehensive overhaul of the entire system, including train fitment and driver training.
Susan Milligan added that, while digital signalling is a powerful tool, the focus should be on where it delivers the greatest value. The entire infrastructure must be considered to ensure that the introduction of new technology does not create additional risks. This sentiment was echoed by Jessica Linhart, who emphasised the importance of collaboration among all parties involved in the rail network to ensure a smooth rollout of digital systems.
The discussion also touched on the role of innovation in track delivery. As Susan pointed out, traditional thinking will not meet the challenges of safety, performance, and capacity. Therefore, innovation must be strategically applied to provide real solutions rather than simply adopting new technologies for the sake of it.
A key takeaway from this panel discussion was the importance of training and competency in the transition to digital signalling. As the panel discussed, it's crucial to ensure that operators are adequately trained to manage the new systems. This training must be coordinated across the industry to avoid silos and ensure a consistent approach.
Bringing the session to a close, the panel looked to the future, contemplating the potential outcomes of digital signalling in the next five years. The hope is for a successful rollout of ETCS and other digital systems that enhance safety and efficiency across the network. However, they also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, including the need for ongoing investment and the importance of maintaining a skilled workforce.
From Satellites to Sensors: How space-enabling technologies are revolutionising rail maintenance
In the second leaders’ debate of the day, delegated looked into the fascinating world of rail maintenance and how space-age technology is reshaping the landscape. With Henny Sands from the UK Space Agency, we explored the integration of satellite imagery, IoT sensors, and AI into the monitoring and management of rail infrastructure.
The discussion began with an overview of how satellite technology is being utilised to detect and track movement in rail networks. This innovative approach allows for the early identification of potential issues, ultimately enhancing safety and operational efficiency. Henny highlighted the importance of real-time data and predictive maintenance, which are crucial in ensuring that rail systems can adapt to the challenges posed by climate change and other environmental factors.
One of the key topics addressed was the security implications of using interconnected networks for rail maintenance. As we rely more on satellite connectivity and IoT devices, the need for robust security measures becomes paramount. Henny explained that the shift towards viewing these systems as a network, rather than isolated components, is essential for safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Looking into the future, Henny shared insights on the exciting developments on the horizon, including the potential for drone technology to augment maintenance efforts. This could lead to faster response times and more efficient operations, ultimately benefiting both passengers and freight services.
Strategic keynote: Jonathan Speak – Head of Engineering Delivery, Hitachi Rail
The second keynote of the day involved Jonathan Speak, Head of Engineering Innovation at Hitachi Rail, delving into the fascinating world of rail technology. In an industry that is constantly evolving, the integration of innovative technology is paramount for enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Jonathan shed light on the significant challenges that the rail sector faces, including ageing infrastructure, rising passenger expectations, and the pressing need for cost-effective solutions.
One of the key topics discussed was Hitachi Rail’s approach to integrated asset management through their HMAX platform. This platform serves as a robust foundation for data mastery, enabling rail operators to gain critical insights into asset performance and maintenance. Jonathan emphasised the importance of building a comprehensive data set to facilitate smarter decision-making and predictive maintenance.
By leveraging advanced data analytics and AI, rail operators can proactively address issues before they escalate, ultimately improving network performance and reducing operational costs. Jonathan also shares compelling case studies, particularly focusing on the wheel rail interface and the use of AI for asset inspection. The wheel rail interface is a crucial aspect of rail operations, as poor management can lead to significant maintenance costs and service disruptions.
By implementing vibration measurement techniques, Hitachi Rail can identify potential failures early, ensuring a smoother and more reliable rail experience. Additionally, the keynote explored how AI-driven asset inspection is revolutionising the way rail operators monitor and maintain their infrastructure. With partnerships like that of Hitachi and Nvidia, the potential for real-time data processing and analysis is becoming a reality.
This not only enhances the efficiency of inspections but also allows for a more responsive approach to maintenance. As we navigate the complexities of modern transport, Jonathan's insights remind us of the critical role technology plays in shaping the future of the rail industry.
AI on Track: Optimising scheduling, customer service, and incident response
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept; it is actively reshaping the UK rail industry in ways we could only dream of a decade ago. In the next panel discussion, we investigate this topic with industry experts Jez Smith, Luisa Moisio, and David Davidson. They shared their insights on how AI is being integrated into rail operations to improve reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
One of the core discussions revolved around predictive maintenance, a powerful application of AI that allows rail operators to anticipate and address potential issues before they lead to delays. By analysing vast amounts of data, AI can identify patterns and trends that humans may overlook, enabling proactive decision-making. David highlighted the importance of this technology, noting that it not only helps in maintaining equipment but also enhances overall service quality for passengers.
However, the journey towards fully integrating AI into rail systems is not without its challenges. The panel discussed the significant hurdle of legacy systems - older technologies that were not designed to work with modern AI solutions. Luisa emphasised the need for high-quality data, stating that without it, AI models can produce misleading results. This is where the concept of interoperability comes into play; ensuring that different systems can communicate effectively is crucial for the success of AI initiatives.
Continuing the discussion, the debate touched on the human element of AI integration. While technology can enhance decision-making, it is essential to maintain the human touch in customer interactions. David explained how AI can assist staff in providing timely information to passengers, allowing them to focus on those who require more personalised support.
As we look to the future, the potential for AI in the rail industry is vast. From improving punctuality to enhancing safety measures, the possibilities are endless. Jez encouraged industry leaders to embrace these technologies while being mindful of the risks and challenges that accompany them.
Rail 5G and Beyond: Building a seamless digital journey for passengers
In an era where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, the UK rail industry is on the brink of a revolution, thanks to the advent of 5G and edge computing. The future of rail travel, and how these technologies can significantly enhance the passenger experience, became the talking point of the final session of the day.
With another panel of experts from various areas of the rail industry, the conversation centred around the growing expectations of passengers. Today's travellers are not just looking for a train ride; they seek a seamless digital experience from the moment they arrive at the platform until they reach their destination. With the rollout of 5G, the potential for real-time updates, onboard streaming, and smarter mobility services is becoming a reality.
One of the key highlights from the discussion was the transformative impact of integrated apps and contactless ticketing. These innovations promise to streamline the travel experience, making it more accessible and convenient for everyone. The panellists shared insights on the importance of providing passengers with timely information about their journey, including platform changes and service disruptions, all delivered through their smartphones.
However, the transition to a fully connected rail network does not come without its challenges. The panel addressed concerns regarding infrastructure and cybersecurity, emphasising the need for robust systems to protect sensitive data as connectivity increases. The experts agreed that while the potential benefits of 5G are immense, ensuring the safety and security of passengers must remain a top priority.
Looking ahead, the future of rail travel appears promising. With advancements in technology, we can expect not only improved connectivity but also enhanced safety measures through connected assets and real-time monitoring. The panel concluded that the railway of the future will be a complex ecosystem, integrating various technologies to create a more efficient and enjoyable travel experience.
As we all work towards the continued improvement of the rail industry, you can make sure you don’t miss a single thing said by any of the experts from across the conference by watching on demand now.
