Conventional railways
With expertise across all key disciplines - including rolling stock, infrastructure, power systems and operations - we work to deliver railways that are safe, sustainable and customer-focused.
On any given day, our teams are providing operators with data analytics to improve operational resilience, helping infrastructure managers increase capacity with intelligent control systems, or working with the supply chain to provide the building blocks of a low-carbon, energy-efficient railway.
Whatever your requirements, we can provide the technical insight needed to propel your project from planning to implementation.
And, as part of the Ricardo group, we can also draw upon a wealth of knowledge from colleagues working in fields such as automation, batteries and energy storage, and corporate sustainability.
Projects
Saudi Arabia Railways Enterprise Risk Management
Read case study
New Generation Sprinter Procurement
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Aventra Vehicle Digital Risk Assessment
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“Working with Ricardo has been very enjoyable. I was kept regularly informed throughout and the document was comprehensive and well-produced.”
Head of Engineering Delivery, Southeastern Railway
How we can help you
Independent Assurance
Whether assessing new products against international standards such as EN 50126 or supporting the construction of entire railways, we offer a broad portfolio of independent assurance services via Ricardo Certification, an independent business within the Ricardo group.
Operations and Maintenance
Our team enables railway operators and maintainers to make informed data-driven decisions that enhance operational efficiency, extend asset life and optimise maintenance strategies.
Systems Engineering and Integration
We partner with Railway OEMs and suppliers to provide systems engineering and integration expertise, helping to ensure projects are seamlessly integrated into the wider rail network.
Technical Advisory
Whether you are looking to develop new regional transport plans, introduce low-emission technologies or procure new fleets, we bridge the divide between core engineering disciplines and the economic and environmental challenges of rail transport.
Why choose Ricardo
Our service mix of strategic consultancy and in-house engineering means we can approach your project from a unique vantage point.
Within our teams are experts who know your expectations, but
also understand the rail industry’s structures and idiosyncrasies,
its complex system interfaces, and the global standards and local
practices that underpin day-to-day operations.
Our role is to bring the expertise you need to navigate the industry’s operational, commercial and regulatory challenges, and ensure you have all the resources you need to deliver a safe, reliable and sustainable railway in any part of the world.
Clients include
- Transport for NSW
- KORAIL
- Alstom
- Network Rail
- NS
- Porterbrook
- Hitachi Rail
“Great response every time. All analysis is completed quickly no matter the time of or day ”
Hitachi Rail Europe
Choosing Ricardo as your technical partner
Global perspectives
Our international network of offices and technical centres supports the transfer of skills and experience from one region of the world to the next.
Whole-system mindset
We will help your teams apply systematic processes so that your engineering projects deliver a positive contribution to the wider rail system.
Collaborative approach
We add value by working alongside your teams in an open and constructive partnership, offering balanced and insightful perspectives on the bigger picture.
An industry voice
Our experts are leading contributors to the international committees, working groups and professional forums that define the rail industry’s technical standards.
“I have a good working relationship with the project managers. Good communication and quick response to queries and requests.
”
Network Rail
Other rail systems supported by Ricardo
We have brought our expertise to transit systems throughout the world - including metro, light rail, trams and people mover systems - providing support ranging from initial route planning and cost-benefit assessments to shadow operation services.
Learn more about our Urban Transit support.
Since our appointment to provide Independent Verification and Validation services during the construction of Taiwan’s high speed rail system in 1996, we have continued to support the safe introduction of high-speed railways throughout Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Learn about our expertise in High-speed rail.
We bring the expertise required to fully exploit the commercial opportunities of moving freight consignments by rail, whilst navigating its well-documented operational, commercial and regulatory challenges.
Find out about our work for the Rail Freight sector.