DIGITAL & AUTOMATIC UP TO AUTOMATED TRAIN OPERATIONS

The Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail), as a public-private partnership program under Horizon Europe, relies on an integrated system and innovation approach to make rail transport in Europe future-proof. The focus lies on the two pillars “System” and “Innovation” as well as a Deployment Group for the consistent implementation of ready-to-use solutions. The System pillar develops a harmonized operational concept and a modular system architecture for European train management, control and safety technology, automation, and cybersecurity. Building on this, seven Flagship Areas and a “Digital Enablers” transversal theme advance research, development, and large-scale demonstration: from digitally automated train operations (DATO) and AI-supported traffic management to green train propulsion, intelligent maintenance, and new mobility concepts for regional and high-speed traffic.

EU-Rail funds transnational consortia of companies, universities, research institutions, and transport or infrastructure users with a funding rate of up to 100% (innovation or coordination measures: 70%; other measures: 100%). Applications can be submitted in single or multiple stages; deadlines for initial calls are Q1 2025 (Exploratory Research) and Q4 2025 (Flagship Areas 2025-2). Funding covers, among others, personnel costs, material, and logistics expenses. The project duration is up to 30 months, with applications possible until the end of 2031. Participation in transnational consortia and experience in EU-funded R&D projects are prerequisites. Selection is based on excellence, impact (capacity, efficiency, sustainability), and quality of project implementation. EU-Rail coordinates standardized specifications for TSIs and standards to promote a high-performance and interconnected European railway area.