One of the biggest challenges in today's rolling stock market is to enable catenary-free operation without relying on internal combustion engine technology. While conventional trainsets and locomotives are powered by either overhead power lines or diesel fuel, battery and fuel cell powered trains are gaining traction in the rail market.
To support the development and validation of these technologies, know-how transfer from the automotive industry is needed. This is where AVL comes in and enables this through our testing and validation solutions.

Maintainance, repair and overhaul (MRO) is an important topic for railway operators and state railways. The need to test all traction motors of available rolling stock can be a challenge, and often comes with much time off the tracks. To increase speed and reliability, a fast and automated approach is the right way to go. With test systems, which allow for streamlined testing of conformity of production, a gain in overall speed or MRO processes can be achieved. This also means less time for rolling stock in the depot, more time on track and a smoother operation.

To increase efficiency in the next generation of train propulsion systems, such as traction motors, traction transmissions, or diesel-electric engine, testing can be the key to streamlined development. Complete test systems including testbed automation and a comprehensive toolchain enable customers to find problems and do functional testing in an efficient way. Moreover, the shift to catenary free operation creates the need for traction via battery or hydrogen fuel cell systems. Here, we can look back on a vast expertise in terms of electrification in the automative sector.


Using existing know-how and technologies of the automotive industry, and applying them in railway applications is the way to go forward. Our solutions are cut out for your challenges.”
– Sascha Heinecke, Director Sales, Industry Solutions
Our solutions cater to all types of rolling stock, from electrical multiple units (EMUs) like high-speed and commuter rail, to diesel-electric multiple units (DMUs). We also cover light rail, trams, metro applications as well as locomotives, and track-and-maintenance vehicles. Our technology ensures optimal performance and reliability across all these applications – enabled by our testing solutions.


AVL offers comprehensive software solutions to optimize your rail testing performance. Our holistic approach combines lab efficiency through automation and test optimization via virtualization for faster results.
The advanced data analytics solution using AI extracts valuable insights from various sources. Additionally, our solutions are designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, ensuring a smooth transition.
This will help you get your products to market faster while ensuring high-quality performance. Learn more about AVL’s approach and explore our software solutions to optimize your rail testing process now.
Railway Technology Testing – Brochure
Innovation on Track.
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Boost your battery test process.
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Optimum view of speed and torque.
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AVL SPECTRA™ Universal Inverter – Solution Sheet
Versatile testing device for future-proof e-motor and inverter development.
AVL’s comprehensive worldwide network of experts allows best customer vicinity, ensuring consistent and connecting testing fields globally. Wherever your R&D challenges take you, we are always close at hand, ready to provide the service you need.

> 70
years of experience.
> 5,000
employees worldwide for testing solutions.
> 30
countries covered by the global network.
> 7,000
testbeds installed worldwide.
> 80
turnkey projects realized.