Projects

Summary

The scope of FP4-Rail4Earth covers the sustainable and environmentally friendly rail system, including rolling stock, infrastructure, stations and their subsystems. The decarbonisation of diesel trains, the reduction of noise and vibrations, energy savings, circular economy, resource consumption, climate-change resilience and the attractiveness of passenger transport lie at the heart of the project.

In total, 71 partners will identify operator needs, including alignment with European sustainable transport policies such as the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy. The project will deliver the scientific and technical solutions required through the development and demonstration (up to TRL7) of new innovations that enhance the environmental performance of the rail system. These solutions will be proposed ensuring economically viable models that facilitate rapid commercialisation for the benefit of European citizens.

Objectives

FP4 aims to improve the current sustainable performance of railways, build a more attractive and resilient mode of transport, and contribute to the objective of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050. The activities encompass the Europe’s Rail Flagship Project 4 on Sustainable and Green Rail Systems, covering rolling stock, infrastructure, stations and all related subsystems (traction, bogies, brakes, energy storage systems, HVAC, etc.).