Categories and companies
Design Innovation of the Year
Company – Luna Rail
Concept - Seat pods and Hotel pods
Despite the challenges of climate change, demand for individual mobility continues to grow, with travellers seeking faster, more comfortable journeys. Air travel is unsustainable, and alternatives are needed.
Night trains within Europe offer a solution to meet intercity travel demand while reducing aviation-related pollution. However, current rolling stock lacks comfort and privacy, and night trains face economic challenges due to limited trips and low passenger capacity, resulting in reduced services.
Luna Rail is developing a new generation of day and night trains that optimise passenger density, comfort, and economics, providing a sustainable alternative to aviation. Our cabin-pods come in two types: seat-pods, which offer privacy for individuals, and hotel-pods, which accommodate up to three people. Both designs feature lie-flat beds, aisle access, and lockable doors for privacy and safety. These pods can be retrofitted into existing railway cars to reduce costs and speed up implementation.
Despite increased comfort, the trains maintain high passenger density. Seat-pods use a stacked herringbone layout, while hotel-pods utilize an elevated aisle concept, doubling the density of current sleeper cars. This improves economics, allows lower ticket prices, and reduces the carbon impact of travel.
In collaboration with design partners, Luna Rail has created an inviting, high-quality space to enhance passenger comfort, confident in our vision for sustainable, comfortable long-distance travel.
Company – Siemens Mobility/Probatec AG
Concept - Pendulum Seat
The Pendulum Seat features an electronically controlled, adaptable design that converts between seating and standing space, controlled remotely by the driver. This modular seating solution maximises train capacity during peak times and enhances passenger comfort during off-peak hours. The concept is patented, supporting future mobility needs.
Company – GRAMMER AG
Concept - Regio Passenger Seat
The New Regio passenger seat sets a new benchmark for comfort, design, and flexibility in regional transport, responding to the increasing mobility needs of passengers. Constructed from a fully recyclable mono-material, it’s designed for a circular economy, offering weight savings and reducing CO2 emissions compared to traditional seating. Its modular design accommodates various configurations, allowing the seat to be customized with basic to premium features. This adaptability provides operators with a versatile seating solution that meets diverse passenger requirements while leading the way in sustainability.
Project Collaboration of the Year
Company – Neomind/DB/California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA)
Concept - California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) Interior
Neomind is proud to present our pioneering design for the California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) interior, an innovative and customer-centric solution that is redefining the rail travel experience for the 21st century. As the designated interior designer for the CHSR project, Neomind has collaborated closely with DB E.C.O. North America Inc. and the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) to develop a cutting-edge interior design vision for the trainsets, which will run at speeds of up to 220 mph, linking California’s major metropolitan regions.
The CHSR design places a strong emphasis on passenger comfort, functionality, and aesthetics, while aligning with California’s innovative spirit. Neomind’s approach integrates advanced design principles to offer a best-in-class onboard experience that balances practicality with luxury. Key features include intuitive seating arrangements, well-located amenities such as restrooms, and a refined selection of materials, colors, and finishes (CMF) that enhance the onboard atmosphere.
Our process involved extensive collaboration with stakeholders, from creating detailed sketches and renderings to constructing a “white mockup” for feedback and testing. The resulting interior layouts and design elements reflect both the unique vision of CHSR and the global standards set by high-speed rail leaders. A key deliverable in this phase was the comprehensive **Design Vision Book**, which outlines the proposed layouts and CMF choices, emphasizing our commitment to customer satisfaction and design excellence.
To bring this vision to life, Neomind is now focused on the creation of high-fidelity mockups that will allow passengers and stakeholders to experience the future CHSR interiors firsthand. These mockups will be instrumental in finalizing design details and ensuring seamless integration with the selected trainset manufacturer. Scheduled for completion by early 2025, these mockups will provide an immersive preview of the onboard experience, promoting excitement and support for this transformative project.
Our innovative interior design for the CHSR promises to elevate rail travel, offering an experience that is modern, comfortable, and uniquely Californian. Neomind is honored to contribute to this groundbreaking project, which will set a new standard for high-speed rail in the U.S. and around the world.
Company – Recaro/Tangerine/Umlaut
Concept - Long Distance Rail Seating Concept
To meet the price constraints of the rail sector, a 'bottom-up' design approach was necessary for the seat structure, comfort system, and all associated features. This holistic design solution was aimed at enabling RECARO to successfully enter the highly competitive rail seating market.
Key challenges included accommodating multiple train configurations, incorporating new wayfinding and infotainment solutions, and balancing durability with aesthetics. Operators also demanded greater customisation and adaptability to dynamic vehicle effects like vibration.
RECARO’s multi-class seating concept offers ergonomic comfort and modular design for cost efficiency. The seating solutions provide optimal comfort through advanced ergonomics, tested and refined iteratively by the collaborative team using human factors, CAD, engineering and prototype modelling techniques added, widening the space around the passenger's shoulders to enhance privacy
Standard and First Class: Share a common lower seatback, with First Class featuring an additional privacy shell. Recline is enabled by a gas spring mechanism.
Premium Class: Features airline-style seating with a 45-degree ‘herringbone’ layout, providing lie-flat or deep recline options.
Design Features: Integrated grab handles, fold-down tables, and modular storage enhance usability and comfort. A unified design language across classes establishes RECARO’s brand identity in rail.
Company – N+P Innovation Design/Hitachi
Concept - AT-Flex Visions for the Future
Hitachi Rail and N+P Innovation Design collaborated on the "AT-Flex - Visions for the Future" project, aiming to create a comfortable and personalized train commuting experience. The concept, “The Train for You - a personal space for unforgettable experiences,” originated from workshops focused on redesigning commuter train interiors.
The project’s main objective was to develop a modular interior design for future commuter trains, incorporating innovative solutions based on user feedback. Through a multi-stage innovation process, ideas were created, refined, and visualized to cater to both daily commuters and long-distance travelers. This modular design enables operators to customize the interior to meet diverse passenger preferences.
In 2023, Hitachi secured international patent protection for several key innovations with N+P's support:
• Privacy Shields & Vertical Luggage Racks: Noise-reducing textile shields that integrate smart lighting and various modules, mounted on a rail system behind wooden panels for flexibility.
• Flexible Racks: Folding luggage racks that allow passengers to create storage in the most needed areas.
• Phone/Work Booth: A module designed for long-distance travelers, featuring a standing table and soundproofing, which can be reserved via smartphone.
• Barrier-Free Zone: An accessible area with an emergency intercom and a backplate to prevent wheelchair roll-back during acceleration.
• Privacy Compartments: Noise-reducing compartments that transform standard longitudinal seating into private areas for families or commuters.
• Priority Area: Reserved for passengers with reduced mobility, located near entrances and equipped with holders for walking aids.
• Infinity Bench & Neck Rests: A space-efficient design featuring curved side elements and under-bench storage, with adjustable neck rests for added privacy.
• Face-to-Face Seating: An arrangement promoting communication between passengers, with designated luggage storage and priority areas.
• Multipurpose Area & Smart Windows: A spacious area for families or groups, featuring interactive windows.
• S-Seats with Privacy Shields: Comfortable armchairs with adjustable privacy shields for longer journeys.
• Illuminated Ceiling Panels: Large panels that visually divide carriages, adapting lighting to the time of day for a welcoming atmosphere, with safety strap handles below.
Technological Innovation of the Year
Company – Lantal Textiles
Concept - Deep Dyed Carpet
Lantal’s DEEP DYED CARPET revolutionizes carpet manufacturing with digital deep-dyeing technology. This ultra-lightweight, eco-friendly carpet reduces water use by 60% and waste by 80%. Made from regenerated polyamide yarn, including recycled ocean nets, this carpet exemplifies sustainability while offering limitless design options and faster production times, setting a new standard in transport interiors.
Company – Rex Royal AG
Concept - Enhanced Coffee Machines
The new S2 Railway coffee machine from Rex-Royal offers enhanced performance and user-friendly features tailored for the rail environment. With a 40% faster grinding process and an increased brewing capacity of up to 18 grams, it delivers a superior coffee experience. Optimized piston movements boost product output by 10%, while the PowerSteam wand ensures temperature-controlled milk foam. T-TempControl enhances tea preparation, and Touchless IQ enables contact-free operation. The machine also supports Rex-Royal QR Pay for secure mobile payments. Tested rigorously, the S2 Railway complies with the EN 501555-3-2 standard, making it highly reliable even under extreme conditions.
Company – ACTIA/Eyelights
Concept - On-board Micro-Projection Technology
In partnership with EyeLights, ACTIA has transformed the passenger information display system by introducing high-brightness compact projectors. These projectors, capable of projecting large, clear images onto opaque or transparent surfaces like windows, offer a flexible alternative to traditional on-board monitors. In addition to easier installation, this technology consumes less energy and reduces the carbon footprint compared to conventional TFT screens. Originally recognized in the automotive industry, this innovative system is set to make train infotainment smarter, more adaptable, and environmentally friendly.
Concept of the Year
Company – Future Travel Studio
Concept - DreamSuite
Future Travel Studio’s DreamSuite is an innovative flat-bed seat concept designed to retrofit existing rolling stock for sleeper services. Funded by Innovate UK, DreamSuite offers a cost-effective, flexible alternative to bespoke sleeper carriages. It enhances passenger comfort with a mid-range seating option, catering to diverse needs, including wheelchair users. By optimising space and increasing carriage density, DreamSuite reduces operational costs and the carbon footprint of rail travel, making it a sustainable solution that improves both comfort and efficiency for sleeper services.
Company – N+P Innovation Design/Hitachi
Concept - AT-Flex Visions for the Future
Hitachi Rail and N+P Innovation Design collaborated on the "AT-Flex - Visions for the Future" project, aiming to create a comfortable and personalized train commuting experience. The concept, “The Train for You - a personal space for unforgettable experiences,” originated from workshops focused on redesigning commuter train interiors.
The project’s main objective was to develop a modular interior design for future commuter trains, incorporating innovative solutions based on user feedback. Through a multi-stage innovation process, ideas were created, refined, and visualized to cater to both daily commuters and long-distance travelers. This modular design enables operators to customize the interior to meet diverse passenger preferences.
In 2023, Hitachi secured international patent protection for several key innovations with N+P's support:
• Privacy Shields & Vertical Luggage Racks: Noise-reducing textile shields that integrate smart lighting and various modules, mounted on a rail system behind wooden panels for flexibility.
• Flexible Racks: Folding luggage racks that allow passengers to create storage in the most needed areas.
• Phone/Work Booth: A module designed for long-distance travelers, featuring a standing table and soundproofing, which can be reserved via smartphone.
• Barrier-Free Zone: An accessible area with an emergency intercom and a backplate to prevent wheelchair roll-back during acceleration.
• Privacy Compartments: Noise-reducing compartments that transform standard longitudinal seating into private areas for families or commuters.
• Priority Area: Reserved for passengers with reduced mobility, located near entrances and equipped with holders for walking aids.
• Infinity Bench & Neck Rests: A space-efficient design featuring curved side elements and under-bench storage, with adjustable neck rests for added privacy.
• Face-to-Face Seating: An arrangement promoting communication between passengers, with designated luggage storage and priority areas.
• Multipurpose Area & Smart Windows: A spacious area for families or groups, featuring interactive windows.
• S-Seats with Privacy Shields: Comfortable armchairs with adjustable privacy shields for longer journeys.
• Illuminated Ceiling Panels: Large panels that visually divide carriages, adapting lighting to the time of day for a welcoming atmosphere, with safety strap handles below.
This project marks a significant advancement in creating a versatile train environment tailored to individual needs.
Company – HS2 Ltd
Concept - 2024 Prototype
HS2 Ltd, Hitachi Alstom High-Speed JV, and West Coast Partnership Development present this work for recognition.
The collaborative design team has redefined the passenger experience, focusing on groups traditionally overlooked in transport design, including families, cyclists, individuals with disabilities, and neurodiverse users. The goal was to create a best-in-class design for all rail users.
Through extensive testing with diverse user groups, the four organizations have refined their design to achieve high standards of inclusivity. The outcome is an evolved train design that includes:
• Inclusive bike storage: A horizontal configuration that accommodates passengers of all heights and abilities, as user testing revealed that vertical storage was not accessible for everyone, particularly shorter individuals or those with disabilities.
• Dedicated family spaces: Designated areas for pushchairs to ensure a more relaxed journey for parents.
• Optimized layout for passenger comfort: More bay seating for groups and additional luggage space to accommodate the growing trend of leisure travel.
• Generous seat pitch: Best in class for UK rolling stock, positively tested by guide dog users, allowing ample space for them across all seating classes, unlike typical UK trains that only offer priority seating.
• Visually friendly environment: Based on feedback from visually impaired and neurodiverse users, frosted glass elements on luggage racks reduce glare while maintaining visibility for security.
• Wheelchair accessible: Redesigned wheelchair spaces allow passengers to choose their travel direction, offering an equal experience compared to those in fixed seating.
• Seamless boarding: Improvements to the platform-train interface enable level boarding and alighting, ensuring an inclusive experience for all passengers within the HS2 network. This represents a significant enhancement in boarding compared to other high-speed railway projects.
New Cabin of the Year
Company – Stadler Rail ÖBB
Concept - KISS-Cityjet
79 of these vehicles have been ordered so far as part of a framework contract for 186 multiple units. It comes in four versions: four- and six-car units for local transport, six-car units for long-distance transport and five-car units for the CAT airport train. In the future, they will form the modern, passenger friendly and environmentally friendly extension of the Cityjet and Railjet fleet used by ÖBB for local and long-distance passenger transport.
Travellers can expect to find comfortable seats, automatic air conditioning, power sockets in every row of seats, free Wi-Fi, monitors with real-time information and video surveillance. Low-floor entrances ensure accessibility, while multi-purpose areas next to the entrances/exits provide customisable storage space. Areas with height-adjustable side tables are available for travellers in wheelchairs.
Company - Avanti West Coast
Concept - Pendolino trains
Avanti West Coast's Pendolino trains combine innovative design with modern comforts. With tilting technology for high-speed travel and the completion of a major refurbishment, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey.
After a major refurbishment in 2023, all our 11-coach Pendolino trains have been equipped with even more amenities. These include wireless charging, increased luggage space and even more Standard Class seats.
Our 9-coach Pendolino trains will also be entirely refurbished to the same standard by the end of summer 2024.
For mobility-impaired passengers
Wheelchair spaces: Our Pendolino trains are equipped with dedicated wheelchair spaces in both Standard and First Class. Specifically, one wheelchair space is available in Standard Premium and First Class (in Coach J) and two additional spaces in Standard Class (Coaches B and D).
Accessible toilets: Located near the wheelchair spaces, our accessible toilets are designed for ease of use for passengers with mobility challenges.
Onboard assistance: Our well-trained crew is always ready to assist with onboard ramps to help with boarding and alighting.
For passengers with sensory impairments
Audiovisual information: Our trains feature public-address systems and visual displays in every coach that offer live journey updates, including destinations and next stops.
Assistance announcements: Our onboard teams have been trained to provide clear and timely announcements. If you have difficulty hearing, please inform our staff as soon as possible to receive personalised assistance.
Assistance dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome onboard our trains and can accompany passengers in all areas of the train.
For passengers with additional needs
JAM card: The JAM Card signifies a need for patience, aiding those with communication challenges. It is recognised by our informed staff to ensure passengers receive the understanding and time they need.
Sunflower Scheme: Partnering with the Sunflower Scheme, we recognise the sunflower lanyard as a sign of hidden disabilities.
Company – Škoda Group
Concept - ForCity Smart Bonn Tram
The Škoda ForCity Smart Bonn tram, awarded the Red Dot for Product Design 2024, combines modern aesthetics with historic city elements. It features upholstered wooden seats, wide entrances, and ergonomic driver cabs, ensuring safety, comfort, and accessibility for all passengers.
Red Dot Design Award: Škoda ForCity Smart Bonn (red-dot.org)
Rail Cabin of the Year
Company – Stadler Rail, RS ZERO
Concept - RS ZERO
The RS ZERO is available in two modern and environmentally friendly drive technologies: Hydrogen and battery. Both will enable CO2 emission-free operation of branch lines in the future. At InnoTrans in Berlin, Stadler presented the prototype of the new RS ZERO, the innovative successor to the successful RS1 Regio-Shuttle. This has been one of the most popular vehicles in German regional transport for 28 years. Around 500 RS1 vehicles are currently in service in Germany and the Czech Republic. Stadler is building on this proven technology and integrating state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly drive systems. The RS ZERO is optionally available with hydrogen and/or battery drive and thus sets new standards for environmentally friendly rail transport and flexible use - a world first.
The RS ZERO is available as a one-car and two-car unit and offers space for 70 to 150 passengers. It is characterised by its low entry height, spacious and step-free low-floor area and barrier-free access, which is particularly advantageous for passengers with limited mobility.
The RS ZERO marks the beginning of a new era in regional rail transport. The RS ZERO is ready to take passengers to their destinations safely, comfortably and in an environmentally friendly manner.
Company - California High-Speed Rail
Concept - Electrified High Speed Rail Service
The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) has selected Alstom and Siemens as the finalists to supply high-speed trainsets for the planned rail link connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco.
CHSRA expects to issue a request for proposals to both companies within the next month, with a contract anticipated to be awarded by the end of the year. The contract, partially funded by a Department of Transportation grant, will not only cover the supply of trainsets but also include a 30-year maintenance agreement, a driving simulator, and the operation and maintenance of the necessary equipment for train upkeep.
Company - ÖBB Nightjet Sleeper trains
Concept - Nightjet Sleeper trains
Sleeper trains are experiencing a rise in popularity, perhaps because of increasing environmental awareness and disruption at airports. This is being felt by both established operators and start-ups. One thing they all agree on is that interior designs need to evolve to take advantage of the growth Austria’s OBB is Europe’s largest sleeper service operator. “ We have seen a boom in night travel,” says Bernhard Rieder, OBB spokesman. “We are operating Nightjet trains on 20 lines across Europe. They are practically fully booked and occupancy is highest in the sleeping car.
Visionary of the Year
The "Visionary of the Year" award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional foresight, innovation, and leadership in their field. This prestigious award celebrates gamechangers who have made significant contributions to advancing technology, driving positive social change, or transforming industries through their visionary ideas and actions. Recipients are honored for their ability to inspire others, push boundaries, and create a lasting impact on society.