| The proposed strategic investment in rail infrastructure in the recently announced Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) grants will only be optimised if there are modern, interoperable trains that can use it. |
| Such trains are crucial for the future of Europe’s rail network. They will ensure seamless cross-border operations, enhance the overall efficiency of the rail system, and reduce the wear and tear on the tracks. |
| However, modern, interoperable trains come with very high acquisition and upgrading costs. Therefore, it is crucial that the EU enables sufficient non-discriminatory funding to support the implementation of the latest interoperability technologies, such as the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) and the Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) across all interested investors, especially private operators and leasing companies dedicated to investing in new and existing rolling stock. |
| Indeed, they have much to contribute through competition, which can lower ticket prices, improve service quality, and reduce the burden on the taxpayer. |
| Together with the recent EU Commission’s proposals for State Aid authorising the financing of guarantees of up to 80% of loans for the acquisition of rolling stock exclusively for new entrants and SMEs, this could be a crucial step towards increasing the availability and affordability of modern, interoperable trains. |
| Leasing companies and independent passenger rail operators are preparing comprehensive feedback for the European Commission’s public consultation, with the goal of better addressing their needs and challenges. |
| ALLRAIL Secretary General Nick Brooks says: “We urge the EU Commission and Member States to recognise the importance of the investment in rail interoperability and there are the resources necessary to drive the modernisation of Europe’s rail infrastructure and trains. These must be allocated in a non-discriminatory manner so that all rail operators, especially the independent ones with fewer financial resources and financing options, can benefit.” |
| AERRL Secretary general, Carole Coune says: “Aid for ERTMS upgrades and retrofits is crucial to the development of rail’s market share. Perhaps some thought should also be given to how this aid should be granted. Could subsidies not be applied at source (i.e. directly to the supply base) at a level that ensures that the cost to the end user is not unnecessarily high?“ |