What is DB ESG’s Rail Technology Hub?
Engineering, innovation and collaboration in one location
DB ESG's Rail Technology Hub brings engineering expertise, advanced technology and collaborative project delivery together in one dedicated facility for the UK rail industry.
Located in Derby and spanning more than 18,000 sq ft, the Hub brings together our Digital Engineering, Future Technologies and Project Services teams alongside specialist workshop, testing and collaboration facilities.
How can the Rail Technology Hub help solve railway engineering challenges?
The Rail Technology Hub provides the environment, equipment and expertise needed to develop practical solutions, test new technologies and accelerate their deployment into operational railway environments.
Our customers work with us to address challenges such as:
- Component obsolescence and parts availability.
- Rolling stock modifications and upgrades.
- Prototype development and product testing.
- Technology trials and validation.
- Fleet performance and reliability improvements.
- Sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives.
What does the Rail Technology Hub offer?
- An advanced Digital Engineering Laboratory.
- A large engineering workshop with mainline access, cranes and two inspection pits.
- Dedicated space for testing, development and customer collaboration.
- A secure facility for project delivery and spares management.
- Multi-disciplinary engineering expertise under one roof.
Bringing specialist expertise together
The Rail Technology Hub is home to several of DB ESG's specialist engineering disciplines, enabling closer collaboration and faster project delivery.
Digital Engineering
DB ESG's Digital Engineering team is leading the sector in the use of computer-aided technologies, including 3D scanning and additive manufacturing, to produce rolling stock components and solve engineering challenges.
By combining advanced digital technologies with our world-class engineering expertise, we are transforming how rail vehicle components are designed, manufactured and supported throughout their lifecycle.
The expanded Digital Engineering Laboratory provides additional capacity for additive manufacturing activities, supporting the production of components for a wide range of rolling stock applications.
Learn more about our Digital Engineering services
Project Services
Our Project Services team delivers vehicle modification programmes, repairs, equipment maintenance and spares support for the rail industry.
The Hub's workshop facilities provide the space and infrastructure needed to support complex projects while maintaining the high standards of quality, safety and technical assurance expected by our customers.
Learn more about our Project Services capabilities
Future Technologies
DB ESG's Future Technologies team is developing solutions that support a more efficient and sustainable railway, including advanced data-driven systems, predictive maintenance technologies and low-carbon engineering solutions. The Hub provides the facilities needed to develop, trial and validate emerging technologies before deployment in operational environments. (link to FT page)
Learn more about our Future Technologies team
Supporting industry collaboration
The Rail Technology Hub has been designed not only as a DB ESG facility, but as a place where customers and industry partners can work together to solve engineering challenges.
Through collaborative engineering, technology development and project delivery activities, the Hub provides the environment needed to:
- Accelerate innovation.
- Reduce development times.
- Test and validate new technologies.
- Access specialist rail engineering expertise.
- Develop practical solutions for operational railway environments.
How can the Rail Technology Hub help you?
Whether you're looking to solve an engineering challenge, develop new technology or explore opportunities for collaboration, our team would be pleased to discuss how the Rail Technology Hub can support your objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Rail Technology Hub located?
The Rail Technology Hub is located in Derby, at the heart of the UK's rail engineering sector, providing easy access for operators, manufacturers, suppliers and industry partners.
Who can use the Rail Technology Hub?
We work with train operators, rolling stock owners, manufacturers, suppliers and other organisations across the rail industry looking to solve engineering challenges, develop new technologies or deliver operational projects.
Can the Rail Technology Hub support additive manufacturing projects?
Yes. Our Digital Engineering Laboratory includes advanced additive manufacturing capabilities that support the development, testing and production of rail components.
Can new technologies be tested before deployment?
Yes. The Hub provides facilities for technology development, testing and validation before solutions are introduced into operational railway environments.
Can customers collaborate with DB ESG teams at the Hub?
Yes. The Rail Technology Hub has been designed to encourage collaboration between DB ESG specialists, customers and industry partners to develop and deliver practical engineering solutions
Interested in learning more?
RTH video
Rail Technology Hub press release - DB ESG opens a Rail Technology Hub to drive technological advancements in the UK rail sector.
End of the video above
Go