Rail supplier news from Bourque Logistics, ABB, Auto Truck and MUL Railcars (Jan. 19)

Bourque Logistics has unveiled the RAILChain™ platform to explore the application of blockchain technology for its rail shipper clients. Using digitized shipping file formats called "rblocks," the platform is designed to enable shippers to securely exchange bill of lading information, as well as settle freight, repair and lease costs using smart contract technology, Bourque officials said in a press release. RAILChain initially will be developed using the Ethereum platform with a design to interchange with other platforms as blockchain technology evolves.

ABB received a $16 million order from Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) to supply two static frequency converters to improve power supply in the Geneva area. The converters will support the expansion of the rail network in the region, ABB officials said in a press release. SBB has kicked off several development programs in the Geneva area, including an investment aimed at doubling the seat capacity on the route between Lausanne and Geneva, along with the introduction of new cross-border commuter trains in western Switzerland.

Auto Truck Group has acquired the assets of Kargo Master. The acquisition is expected to continue Auto Truck's strategy of increasing manufacturing capabilities for the van segment, company officials said in a press release. Kargo Master will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Auto Truck and continue to market products to independent distributors in the truck equipment, truck accessory and specialty markets through existing channels. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance Co. Ltd. recently announced executive appointments at MUL Railcars Inc. (MULR). Kent Boskovich has been named chief commercial officer, while Andy Vestergaard was appointed chief investment officer. Boskovich joins the company after serving as president of Union Leasing Inc. for the past 10 years, while Vestergaard comes to MULR after two decades at GATX Corp. Meanwhile, Mark Mason was appointed senior vice president of sales at MULR, and Terry Ikeda, executive vice president. Mason spent the past seven years managing Hempel's rail coatings business. For his part, Ikeda has more than eight years of experience at Mitsubishi UFJ, according to a company press release.