Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the EU Commissioner-designate for Transport, has outlined a forward-looking vision for Europe’s transport sector, emphasising sustainable mobility, digitalisation, and investment in infrastructure. As Europe strives for climate neutrality by 2050, rail stakeholders such as the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) and other advocacy groups are urging the EU to prioritise rail development. Tzitzikostas’ Commissioner hearing underscored rail’s crucial role in the EU’s green transition, with Tzitzikostas setting ambitious goals to expand high-speed rail and increase cross-border connectivity, particularly through night trains and freight services. This vision has been well-received by CER and its allies, who have long championed a comprehensive European rail network to support sustainable, low-emission mobility.

A Focus on Digitalisation and Safety

Digitalisation was a primary focus for Tzitzikostas, who highlighted the role of advanced technologies such as the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), Digital Capacity Management (DCM), and Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) in modernising Europe’s rail infrastructure. These technologies promise to increase capacity, safety, and operational efficiency at a fraction of the cost of new infrastructure. Yet, rail advocates stress the need for a centralised governance model for ERTMS to overcome deployment delays across member states. The push for digital innovation aligns with Europe’s broader ambitions to make rail a safer, more accessible, and affordable option for both passengers and freight.