Urban Transit
We work alongside transport authorities, operators and the supply chain to deliver transit systems that change long-term travel habits.
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.
Our teams have supported the construction of new lines featuring the latest CBTC technologies as well as the careful refurbishment of some of the world’s oldest metro networks.
And in addition to full-system roles overseeing a range of multi-disciplinary services, we also provide specialist support capabilities such as mechanical system design and energy efficiency strategies.
Projects
Paris Metro - Energy Usage Calculations
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Amsterdam Metro
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Panama Monorail
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“Commitment and hard work are the strengths of Ricardo”
Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited
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
Introducing high-capacity railways in urban environments presents unique challenges. Limited space necessitates complex designs, yet integration with existing transportation must be seamless. High passenger volumes necessitate advanced systems for safety, reliability and operational efficiency, but then increased automation - critical to scalability - introduces heightened risks during both build and operation.
- For government and procuring bodies, we offer Technical Advisory and Independent Assurance services, with proven expertise in ensuring compliance with safety, cyber security and operational standards, while managing delivery risks.
- For suppliers and consortiums, our Systems Engineering and Integration services streamline project complexity, enabling on-time, efficient delivery.
- Post-delivery, our Operations and Maintenance teams help improve asset performance, reliability and cost efficiency.
Clients include:
- MTR Corporation Limited
- Sydney Metro
- Edinburgh Trams
- Metro de Madrid
- Metrolinx
- City of Ottawa
- Amsterdam Metro
“The Ricardo team was very knowledgeable and produced good quality deliverables.”
Alstom
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.
“We’re excited to have Ricardo, supported by Seoul Metro, come on board and share their international expertise with us”
Sydney Metro
Other rail systems supported by Ricardo
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.
Learn about how we support Conventional Rail systems.
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.