AUSTRIAN open-access operator Westbahn presented its new-generation double-deck EMU, the Stadler Kiss 2, to the press on May 19.

GERMAN open-access passenger operator Locomore announced on May 11 that it has filed for insolvency after revenues failed to increase in line with projections.

AUSTRIAN open-access passenger operator Westbahn announced on May 10 that it has joined the Trainline online ticketing portal, enabling through booking with other operators for the first time.

CZECH and Slovakian open-access passenger operator RegioJet announced on April 27 that it is planning to launch services between Prague and Vienna, beginning at the start of the 2018 timetable in mid-December 2017.

CZECH and Slovak open-access operator Regiojet has awarded Bombardier a contract to supply eight Traxx MS2E multi-system electric locomotives, with an option for 20 additional units.

AN alliance has been formed in Brussels which brings together open-access operators in the passenger and freight sectors with the aim of collectively addressing issues affecting non-incumbent rail companies.

SWEDISH open-access operator MTR Express announced on April 12 that it will reduce journey times for its Stockholm - Gothenburg services after its fleet of Stadler Flirt trains received certification from rail regulator Transportstyrelsen to operate at their maximum speed of 200km/h.

REGIONS of France, an association of regional authorities, held its first hearings on April 6 to gauge the potential for the introduction of competition in the provision of regional rail services, although this is not expected to start until 2024.

THE first completed driving car for NTV’s new fleet of Pendolino tilting trains was unveiled at Alstom’s Savigliano plant in northern Italy on December 15.

GERMANY’s newest open-access passenger operator, Locomore, launched its first service linking Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Hannover and Berlin on December 14.