RAIL Test Ltd was set up in July to offer independent testing and trial services at Wegberg-Wildenrath Test Centre in Germany. A contractual agreement provides for use of facilities and infrastructure at the Siemens-owned site by other firms including Alstom and Bombardier.

The partners in Rail Test are the Institute of Rail Technology (lead management), TÜV InterTraffic of Rheinland and Berlin-Brandenburg, TÜV Automotive and Studiengesellschaft für Unterirdische Verkehrsanlagen (STUVA). Services offered by the company will include vehicle type testing, production vehicle testing, acceptance trials and passenger comfort testing. Dynamic testing is possible at Wildenrath, with measurement of noise, vibration, brake performance and electromagnetic compatibility.

Supplementary engineering services will include the evaluation of test results, preparation of reports, and development of custom tests. Consultancy services will provide advice on test facilities available elsewhere, including climate chambers.

Rail Test Ltd will advise the Land of Nordrhein-Westfalia on railway research issues. It also plans to develop an experimental vehicle for testing components and a reference track for measuring noise and vibrations.