Trains are often regarded simply as products, objects designed to perform a specific task. By applying the principles of architecture and interior design to their practice, designers can bring a new dimension to rail travel and enhance passenger experience, in addition to meeting technical, functional and operational requirements.
Innovative interior rail passenger vehicle concepts allow a flexible share of standard and comfort class in day travel stock and support acceptability of travel in highly occupied vehicles. Experts believe that a second condition to improve the passengers’ comfort is a combined day & night operation of vehicles allowing sufficient seats for day travel and comfortable sleeping possibilities for night services.
Increasing intermodal and intramodal competition forces railway operators to increase their efficiency and attractiveness in a steadily ongoing process.
A central role is assigned to the rolling stock, since it is a significant part of the cost structure, depreciation cost but also costs for operating it. Rolling stock also defines the attractiveness of the service offer to the customer. On account of the high investment, operation and maintenance costs, the main factor for increasing efficiency is the performance productivity of the rolling stock.
Productivity compared to air transport on short distances
A more flexible use of the rolling stock in long distance traffic can create significant improvements in efficiency and thus leading to more economic and competitive rail passenger transportation. Especially for night trains, the gain in efficiency is the enabler for a renewed demand for rolling stock.
New interior design concepts are needed in order to use passenger coaches in a more flexible way and to guarantee that this flexibility does not interfere with the attractiveness of the vehicles in the diverse market segments. The aim is to improve the competitiveness of long distance travel compared to short distance flights. There are now new opportunities for a more holistic consideration of railcars designed for specific systems. Rail carriage design achieves many important functions, including aesthetics, comfort, energy efficiency etc. Traditionally railcar materials are also chosen to meet standard fire tests and new approaches may provide additional opportunities for rail safety and a competitive edge.
Through innovative interior design solutions (flexible seating plans for first -second class and efficient seating plans in the conversion of sleeping coaches into ordinary coaches), the productivity and thus the competitiveness of long distance rail travel will be improved in comparison to short distance air trips.
For the European level the long-distance inter-regional segment is a primary focus, as the European policy must be concerned with territorial cohesion, the internal market and the connectivity of the community area. That is why, when it comes for building coaches for passenger transport, the profile industry stresses the importance of developing new concepts which could redirect the attention of a passenger towards rail transport. Recent surveys conducted by Eurostat in seven member states showed that long-distance travel accounts for around 20 % of the total person-kilometres.
by Elena Ilie
Share on:
