InnoTrans attracts record participation

This year's InnoTrans Convention held in Berlin last week attracted 144,470 trade visitors, marking a record participation rate, conference planners announced yesterday.

The international railway industry conference, held Sept. 20-23 on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds, featured 2,955 exhibitors from 60 countries, who presented their products and an extensive range of services, according to an InnoTrans press release.

The convention's outdoor display featured 127 vehicles. Among the convention highlights were 149 products that made their international debut at the event.

The 144,470 visitors represented more than 140 countries. About 16,000 train enthusiasts attended events that were open to the general public.

Contracts worth millions of dollars, as well as joint ventures agreements, were signed. For example, Vossloh and CRCC High-Tech Equipment Corp. Ltd. have signed two contracts for the construction of self-propelled high-speed grinding machines.

In addition, Stadler announced an from Alpha Trains for the conversion of 44 electric multiple units; and Bombardier Transportation and the manufacturer China Railway Rolling Stock Corp. signed a strategic joint venture agreement.

Also at the event: Alstom exhibited its new regional train, the fuel cell-powered Coradia Lint; and Siemens demonstrated the Velaro Turkei high-speed train and the Metro Riad underground train.