Communication equipment for rail cars

Beijer Electronics has through its subsidiary Westermo won a large order of some 30 million SEK ($4 million) from Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) as the end customer.

The order is a breakthrough for Beijer Electronics and Westermo's new solution for IP communication to the railway segment (Westermo IP-train solution) and it confirms the group's world leading position in this area. The order is also one of Beijer Electronics' single largest orders.

The order comprises communication equipment such as switches and routers for 364 rail cars. First deliveries will take place during the fourth quarter 2013 and deliveries will run for 2.5 years. There is a potential for additional orders as part of WMATA's upgrade of Washington's metro and train network.

Beijer Electronics' order for communication equipment is a part of an information system for the trains that will be delivered by Toshiba, thus Westermo's direct customer. Crucial for Toshiba's choice of Westermo's IP-train solution is the system's robustness and reliability in very harsh environments. The communication system also comprises specific functions for control and surveillance which will bring enhanced security.

Westermo has for nearly two years pursued an intensive work in developing the new solution for IP communication within the railway segment. Launch took place at the end of last year. In 2012, Westermo has also received two smaller orders for the system to new customers. The large order from Toshiba and WMATA testifies that the transition to IP based communication within the railway segment now has begun in earnest and Beijer Electronics sees a great potential in the global market.