WASCOSA News

Everyone is talking about climate change. The transport sector can – indeed must – play its part. There is no need to reinvent the wheel: rail has traditionally been the greenest form of transport, and still is. But as Professor Markus Hecht, PhD-Ing. explains in his lead article: there needs to be an even greater political effort to create the appropriate conditions for the bulk of goods to be shifted from road to rail across the whole of Europe, just as has already happened with the transalpine NEAT route through Switzerland.

In addition to creating the right overall conditions, however, quality standards need to be improved on the rail network through innovation. Such innovations were the main theme in the trade show recently held in Munich, transport logistic 2019. In our review of the trade show on page 4 you can read all about the exciting new concepts we showcased together with our partners under the banner “More wagons – More ideas!”. These innovations are also set to enable a further reduction in emissions and to make rail freight transport even more efficient and attractive.

Having a stronger voice in the current debate and addressing new demands is certainly an advantage. The takeover of Nacco Germany at the end of 2018 was a big leap forward in our growth strategy, making us Europe’s fourth largest freight wagon leasing company. Our Chief Sales Officer, Yann Bonguardo, looks back over the successfully completed integration in an interview on page 8. We will use our stronger position to ensure that the railway finally plays the prominent role
it merits in goods transport, while also supporting climate protection.

I hope you enjoy reading the latest edition of our infoletter!