Siemens Mobility is set to revolutionize rail infrastructure with a significant £100 million investment in a cutting-edge manufacturing, digital engineering, and research & development (R&D) center in Chippenham, UK. This strategic move underscores Siemens Mobility’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and meeting the escalating demand for rail infrastructure both in Britain and globally.
Scheduled to replace the existing factory in 2026, the new facility will play a pivotal role in Siemens Mobility’s future projects in rail technology. With a focus on efficiency, the center will be instrumental in building the next generation of conventional and digital rail signaling and control systems for Britain. The transition, inclusive of the transfer of approximately 800 local staff, aims to seamlessly continue production without interruption.
Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, expressed enthusiasm about Siemens’ commitment, stating, “This new commitment from Siemens is a big boost for Britain’s world-class manufacturing sector and shows our plan for the UK to be the best place to invest and grow a business is working.”
Karl Blaim, Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of Siemens Mobility, highlighted the company’s enduring impact on Britain’s transportation sector, stating, “Siemens Mobility has been transforming rail, travel, and transport in Britain for over a century.”
The new Chippenham site, situated south of Langley Park at SouthPoint Business Park, will adhere to the highest BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard for the office building. The production and warehouse areas will prioritize sustainability, considering factors such as energy, water, waste, health, well-being, and materials. This commitment aligns with Siemens Mobility’s dedication to structures that benefit both society and the environment.
The state-of-the-art factory will adopt the latest standards for highly efficient production, while the offices will provide a modern, collaborative work environment fostering innovation for the UK railway. The interior design considers the ‘new normal,’ featuring open collaboration spaces, improved facilities, relaxation areas, and upgraded technology.
Furthermore, Siemens Mobility’s ecological approach includes an assessment aiming for a 10% net increase in biodiversity through the planting of native plants and the creation of wildlife habitats. This aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and responsible ecological practices.
Siemens Mobility’s Chippenham factory, with a history dating back to 1897, has been a hub of innovation for over a century. The new investment builds on the facility’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of rail technology, with key contributions including digital signaling technology for major rail lines, computer-based interlockings for significant digital programs, and innovations in modular technology for improved rail connections.
Siemens Mobility’s rich history, combined with its global leadership in intelligent transport solutions for over 175 years, positions the company at the forefront of the rail technology sector. The £100 million investment marks a significant milestone in Siemens Mobility’s commitment to advancing the UK’s rail industry, ensuring sustainable growth and continued innovation.