In order to improve the existing sustainability performances of railway systems, new innovative products and services need to be developed, tested and deployed.

With the cooperation of the whole European rail value chain, the target is to optimise performances, stimulate the modal shift and improve passenger experience. Given the level of investments needed towards decarbonation of the overall rail system, the R&I activities will contribute to the objective of a Climate Neutral Europe for 2050. This means:

• Innovative solutions to minimise environmental footprint of the overall rail system., including less resource-intensive materials (infrastructure, rolling stock and operational).
• Holistic approach towards generation, storage and optimal use of energy in the infrastructure connected to the European energy network.
• Innovative approaches to design and use, focused on increased capacity and modularity of solutions (tools, manufacturing processes and efficient use of resources)
• Systems improvement including electro-mechanical components for low consumption, low emissions, low noise and low vibration levels.
• Healthier and safer subsystems such as air-filtration, disinfection systems and eco-friendly HVAC technologies.
• New designs of rolling-stock especially modular interiors for a more adaptative, attractive and economically sustainable railway transport for passengers and supported by industrial standards.