For 35 years, the HÜBNER Group has been supplying gangway systems for high-speed trains. With its decades of experience, the company based in Kassel, Germany continues to set new standards in aerodynamics and sustainability.
With the introduction of the first generation of the ICE in the early 1990s, high-speed trains have been on the rails in Germany. The HÜBNER Group, a leading system supplier for the mobility sector, was involved as a project partner for this milestone from the very beginning. The company supplied the gangway systems for the trains of Siemens Mobility and its consortium partners, thus carrying out pioneering work. For all subsequent ICE generations (1-4), the world market leader was able to draw on its experience and expertise. HÜBNER further intends to use this extensive know-how for the next fifth generation (also known as HGV 3.0), which is scheduled to go into operation in the early 2030s. Once again, the company is contributing innovative concepts with the aim of supplying the future train manufacturer with high-quality gangway systems. Today, HÜBNER gangways are in use in high-speed trains all over the world.
“The name HÜBNER is closely linked to the history of the ICE in Germany,” says Christian Bischof, Head of Technology & Projects “We have been the market-leading expert for gangway systems in the high-speed sector for 35 years.” In addition to the ICE series, HÜBNER also developed high-speed gangways for the train manufacturer Hitachi for the ETR 1000 series. They also supplied the train manufacturer Alstom for the ‘Zefiro Express’, which was produced by Bombardier before the merger of the two companies. Once again, HÜBNER was one of the pioneers in this field, as they were the first company in China to develop gangway technologies for the high-speed sector – an important milestone for the expansion of the Chinese railway network.
Aerodynamic and robust
A particular challenge for gangway systems is the high speeds they have to withstand. The aim is to maintain a low weight and ensure optimal aerodynamics. At the same time, the gangways have to be highly pressure-tight, as they are exposed to enormous pressure surges, especially when passing through junctions and tunnels. “We guarantee that our systems meet all these requirements. We are also constantly innovating in terms of aerodynamics and sustainability,” says Christian Bischof.
For example, Hitachi’s ETR1000, also known as the ‘Red Rocket’, uses the HÜBNER fairing technology. It consists of specially designed folding bellows precisely shaped to fit the vehicle contour. It improves aerodynamics and thus increases the energy efficiency of the trains. The system has proved its worth and could now also be used on the fifth generation of the ICE.
Fresh design for more travelling comfort
In addition to aerodynamics, noise reduction and passenger comfort are becoming increasingly important. After all, passengers expect to be able to concentrate on their work and, if necessary, take part in video conferences during their journey. To allow this, noise must be kept to a minimum, even at the gangways between carriages. “Passengers’ expectations have changed. For this reason alone, we are thinking beyond pure functionality,” says Christian Bischof. “Conceptualizing HGV 3.0, we have worked with a design office for the first time to be able to offer a modern design.” This way, HÜBNER’s systems directly enhance the quality of the journey and travelling comfort.
Setting standards in sustainability
HÜBNER takes a holistic approach to sustainability, including the development and maintenance of gangway systems. Lightweight construction and high aerodynamics help to improve the energy efficiency of vehicles and thus optimise the ecological footprint of customers.
As the gangways are among the most heavily used components of a train and have to be replaced after approximately 15 years, HÜBNER has adopted a particularly sustainable approach: only those components of the gangways that actually need replacement will be replaced. This minimises the amount of waste products. The process has been further developed in recent years enabling HÜBNER to now offer the sustainable refurbishment not only for its own gangway systems, but also for those of its competitors.
“With our gangway systems, we have been shaping the development of high-speed rail transport for 35 years, not only in Germany but all over the world,” emphasises Kai Mentel, Managing Director of the HÜBNER Group and responsible for the Mobility Rail business division. “We want to continue to be an innovation driver in the field of gangway systems – with a clear focus on sustainability. To emphasise this, we have a real eye-catcher in store for InnoTrans 2024. We look forward to welcoming all customers, visitors and interested parties and are sure that they will be amazed!”
HÜBNER Group at the InnoTrans 2024
At the InnoTrans trade fair in Hall 1.2, Booth 120, the HÜBNER Group will be presenting numerous products and innovations that contribute to making public transport by rail more sustainable, efficient and reliable. More information about the HÜBNER Group’s exhibits is also available online: www.hubner-group.com/innotrans/.
17.09.2024
