Challenges in the (Re-)Connection of Peripheral Areas to the Rail Network from a Rolling Stock Perspective: The Case of Germany

Currently, in the course of the German mobility transition, an increasing number of disused rail lines are already being or intended to be reactivated in order to increase capacities, decrease transport-related emissions and reconnect rural areas to passenger rail services, thus creating a more comprehensive rail service. However, the use of state-of-the-art regional railcars on old rural infrastructure often leads to problems since they are often worn out and do not meet today’s technical standards. This applies, for example, to the axle loads and dimensions of the vehicles but also to operational aspects, such as the vehicle’s passenger capacity and accessibility. First, this work gives an overview of the available rolling stock and the given infrastructure, as well as an analysis of the (system) interfaces. Subsequently, various challenges for the re-connection of peripheral areas to the rail network were identified through data research and comparison of the vehicle and infrastructure parameters. In addition, the requirements related to possible autonomous operation and the related absence of the driver and crew personnel in the vehicle, which require new solutions in terms of safety, were taken into consideration. Orientation of future rolling stock generations towards the existing infrastructure and the required transport needs, including lower axle loads, accessibility and smaller capacities, can contribute to the economic operation of low-capacity lines and bring more passengers to public transport.