Innovation

New technologies

We have developed new technologies and approaches, always ensuring that these can be applied with current practices as well as future transformational ones. We are recognised as delivering the goods with leading performances, particularly in the fields of track quality, handback and safety.

Some examples of the new technologies and approaches we have introduced are Kirow Cranes, Matisa On-Track Plant, PALAS, IceSolution, Super-Puller, Harmalen level crossings and new ballast handling methods. For these developments, we have the added benefit of access to the experienced skills of our wider international group; lean thinking, systems engineering and world best practice. 

Leading the way

We have been leading the way when it comes to innovation and new products:

• We were the first and only new railway infrastructure company to be granted a Railway Safety Case and train operator´s licence - enabling it to operate rail repair vehicles on UK railways.
• We were the first company to invest in advanced Matisa tampers - and to procure them on the basis of guaranteed reliability. The tampers are contracted to provide a minimum 98 per cent reliability - ensuring VolkerRail and its customers get real value for money.
• We brought the first Kirow crane to the UK for heavy lifting work on railways. The Kirow crane technology was already proven on the continent and VolkerRail ensured the crane was adapted to suit UK conditions.
• We employ driver, operator, maintainer plant operators. This ‘ownership´ of plant by named individuals offers a range of benefits to customers including improved efficiencies, availability and safety guarantees.
• In the world of tenders and contracting with customers, we led the way with collaborative, non-adversarial practices and pioneered the use of ‘open book target price´ contracts.