Future Capabilities of the European Railway System

The European railway sector is undergoing a paradigm shift to meet the challenges posed by climate change, digital transformation, and increasing mobility demands. This document, developed by the UIC Research and Innovation Coordination Group (RICG) Working Group 1 “Policy & Strategy”, presents a mission-oriented approach that defines twelve future railway capabilities to ensure that rail remains a competitive, resilient, and sustainable mode of transport for Europe.

Created by members of the Railway Operating Community (ROC), this document is intended to serve as a practical roadmap for policymakers, industry leaders, infrastructure managers, railway undertakings, and researchers. It offers concrete pathways to accelerate innovation and overcome fragmentation, promoting public-private cooperation, systematic investment strategies, and regulatory alignment.

By delivering these targets, the European railway system will evolve to be smarter, seamless, greener, and more inclusive.