MxV Rail, U.K. rail center enter knowledge-sharing agreement

MxV Rail and the United Kingdom’s Global Center of Rail Excellence (GCRE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that calls for the entities to collaborate on rail technology and innovation worldwide.

The agreement will enable MxV and GCRE to share technical expertise relating to design and engineering, commercial planning, procurement processes, safety requirements and operational best practices.

"This is an exciting opportunity for both organizations to grow railway research globally," said MxV Rail President and CEO Kari Gonzales in a press release. "After visiting the expansive facility in South Wales, we look forward to supporting GCRE in their efforts to advance rail research in the U.K."

The two entities have a common goal for global clients through the development and operation of purpose-built railway testing centers, said GCRE Chief Executive Simon Jones.

"Our collaboration will enable these clients to accelerate innovation and improve their own customer’s experience, reduce costs and accelerate decarbonization," he said.

The MOU with MxV Rail "is a really important step forward for the development of GCRE, and our own high-tonnage infrastructure test loop," Jones added.

GCRE was established by the Welsh government as a special purpose vehicle in 2021 with an initial commitment of $61.3 million. The U.K. government is expected to confirm another $12.3 million for research and development along with capital funding of $24.5 million.

An investment prospectus to attract private funding for the project is also in development to be ready for launch in fall.

A subsidiary of the Association of American Railroads and formerly known as the Transportation Technology Center Inc., MxV Rail last year announced its transition to a new, independent multi-campus operation in Pueblo, Colorado. The new facilities are on schedule to be fully functional in October.