Hitachi and Tobu Railway launch a co-creation initiative to deliver HMAX on Japanese railways
Tokyo - Hitachi and Tobu Railway Co., Ltd. ("Tobu Railway") have entered into a strategic partnership to implement Hitachi's HMAX, its next-generation digital asset management platform, on Tobu Railway's train.
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The co-creation will focus on advancing the digital transformation of rolling stock maintenance, with key priorities including :
. Automation of vehicle inspections
. Optimization of manual operations
. Strengthening on-site maintenance capabilities through digital tools
Through its co-creation, Hitachi and Tobu Railway are committed to delivering the social innovations required for the sustainable railways of the future.
Giuseppe Marino, Group CEO, Hitachi Rail, said: "Our HMAX technology is harnessing AI and data to power the digital transformation of rail, achieving greater reliability and efficiency across systems. Through partnerships, such as the co-creation announced today with Tobu Railway, we are leveraging our digital expertise to contribute to enhancing performance, sustainability and passenger experience."
Mitsuo Iwasaki, Head of Japan Business, Hitachi Rail, said: "This co-creation marks a key milestone in transforming railway maintenance in Japan. We're honored to begin co-creation with Tobu Railway and feel a strong sense of responsibility as we advance digitalization in this field. Hitachi will continue driving innovation to be an essential partner for Japan's railway operators."
Takao Suzuki, Director, Managing Executive Officer, Head of Railway Business Division, Tobu Railway, said: "Hitachi has been responsible for the design and manufacturing of our rolling stock and onboard electronic equipment. With their extensive expertise in rolling stock maintenance, we believe that by implementing DX aligned with our maintenance methods, we can address challenges such as the labor shortage we will face in the future. The HMAX solution not only improves efficiency but also contributes to enhancing employee skills and engagement. By promoting co-creation with Hitachi, we aim to establish a sustainable railway business."
Drawing on the powerful digital expertise of the Hitachi Group, Hitachi Rail is applying AI technologies to transform mobility. In 2024, the company launched HMAX, its digital asset management platform, which harnesses NVIDIA's AI and machine learning capabilities to optimize railway systems and infrastructure. Last month, Hitachi Rail was announced as the first transport company globally to adopt NVIDIA's latest technology, its IGX Thor platform, to provide real-time processing at the edge.
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