Pioneering excellence in the rail sector
Interview with Marcel Klehr, Managing Director – ALTEN in Germany
In the fast-evolving world of rail transport, staying ahead of the curve requires a blend of innovation, expertise, and strategic insight. Marcel Klehr, Managing Director at ALTEN in Germany, discusses the challenges faced by the industry, the role of ALTEN in addressing these challenges, and how the Group stands out as the preferred partner for businesses in the rail sector.
What distinguishes ALTEN’s expertise in the rail sector?
ALTEN has been deeply embedded in the rail sector for over two decades. Our journey began with providing engineering services, and over the years, we’ve expanded our capabilities to include comprehensive digital and IT solutions. What sets us apart is our ability to deliver end-to-end solutions—from initial design and development through to testing, validation, and maintenance. We collaborate closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and tailor our solutions to meet those requirements effectively.
How do you address the key challenges faced by businesses in the rail industry today?
The rail industry faces several significant challenges, including the need for improved safety standards, increased operational efficiency, and the integration of advanced technologies such as IoT and AI. At ALTEN, we address these challenges through a combination of innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology solutions. For instance, we develop predictive maintenance systems that leverage AI to foresee and pre-empt technical issues before they occur, thus reducing downtime and enhancing safety. Additionally, our digital transformation initiatives help clients optimise their operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
What are some recent projects that illustrate your expertise?
One of our recent notable projects involved the development of a high-speed rail system in collaboration with a leading European rail operator. We provided end-to-end engineering services, from conceptual design to final implementation, ensuring the system meets the highest standards of performance and safety. Another project worth mentioning is our work on a smart signalling system, which utilises IoT sensors and data analytics to enhance real-time decision-making and improve overall traffic management on rail networks. These projects illustrate not only our technical expertise but also our commitment to advancing the rail industry.
How does ALTEN stay ahead in a sector that is constantly evolving?
Staying ahead in the rail sector requires continuous innovation and adaptability. At ALTEN, we invest heavily in R&D to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. Our dedicated innovation labs work on developing new solutions that anticipate and respond to future trends and challenges. Additionally, we maintain strong partnerships with academic institutions and research organisations, which keeps us connected to the latest scientific insights and technological breakthroughs. This proactive approach ensures that we are always ready to offer our clients state-of-the-art solutions that keep them competitive.
Looking forward, what are ALTEN’s strategic priorities in the rail sector?
Our strategic priorities revolve around three main pillars: sustainability, digitalization, and customer-centricity. Sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, and we are committed to developing green solutions that reduce environmental impact while enhancing efficiency. Digitalization remains a key focus as we continue to integrate advanced technologies into our service offerings. Lastly, maintaining a customer-centric approach means we will keep tailoring our solutions to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring their ongoing satisfaction and success.
