Siemens Mobility has unveiled the new generation of highly digitalized locomotives – Vectron X – at its newly opened Rail Service Center in Munich-Allach. The cab features a central screen with app icons, resembling a smartphone or tablet interface, a first for the rail industry.
The Vectron platform has been a success since its debut in 2010, with 3,000 units sold, including 100 in Poland. Vectron X builds on this legacy by introducing an open digital ecosystem, enabling continuous software updates and integration with third-party applications.
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, said: – With Vectron X, we expand our leading position in the European market and, as part of Siemens Xcelerator, create a scalable digital platform that grows with customer needs. Standardized interfaces and software-based functionalities enable more efficient operations throughout the lifecycle.
Digital cab transforms driver experience
The centerpiece of the Vectron X cab is an 11.6-inch Smart Screen. It displays operational data, route information, and third-party apps available via an App Store. Drivers previously relied on tablets that were difficult to position or even paper documents, such as timetables used in Poland.
The interface resembles Apple CarPlay, bringing a similar concept to rail for the first time. – Vectron X combines the physical and digital world, introducing digital functions directly into the locomotive. Smart Screen, apps, TrainPlay, and near-real-time connectivity significantly simplify operations and increase efficiency – said Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock at Siemens Mobility.
Remote start and real-time connectivity
A new Remote Start function allows the locomotive to be started remotely, speeding up readiness and improving operational flexibility. This gives drivers a comfortable cabin temperature and frees up around 30 minutes of working time for driving, bringing tangible economic benefits to operators.
Advanced connectivity transmits operational data in near-real-time, enabling early fault detection, predictive maintenance, and a shift from reactive to proactive servicing. This reduces unplanned downtime and improves fleet availability.
New service center and Polish expansion
Alongside the Vectron X launch, Siemens Mobility opened a modernized Rail Service Center in Munich-Allach. The facility triples annual inspection capacity from 25 to 80 revisions, cutting turnaround times and boosting fleet availability. The company has invested around €250 million in the entire plant, which employs 2,500 people.
Elmar Zeiler, CEO Customer Services at Siemens Mobility, stated: – The new Rail Service Center is our competence center for maintaining Vectron locomotives and an important step in expanding the European service network.
Siemens Mobility also plans to open its own service center in Poland in 2027.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Adrian Ołdak / PTWP
