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Saturday, October 12, 2024

LNER introduces FutureLabs to encourage rail innovation

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LNER FutureLabs is a new innovation programme from London North Eastern Railway (LNER) that aims to fast-track digital and tech developments into the rail industry.

It provides an opportunity for tech and digital start-ups to put their ideas to the test in an industry that holds a huge amount of potential when it comes to overcoming the challenges of personalisation, encouraging increased usage and improving sustainability.

Three challenges are set as part of the LNER FutureLabs programme:

  1. More Journeys, More Often – digital services and solutions that encourage more people to travel by train.
  2. Personalised Customer Experience – innovations which can simplify, personalise and enhance the journey of every passenger.
  3. Responsible Business Innovation – delivering a railway network that is better for both the natural environment and for our local communities.

Danny Gonzalez, chief digital and innovation officer at LNER, said: “Our ambition is to truly transform rail travel for the benefit of our customers and communities.

“We’re not just talking about micro-changesthat tinker around the edges. We’re looking to take advantage of some of the world’s latest digital and tech developments to improve our service.

“This is a huge opportunity for brilliant and passionate start-ups to work with us in setting new standards for rail travel in the UK.”

LNER is offering successful applicants unprecedented access to its live operational environments, one-to-one mentoring from senior team members, and the opportunity to apply for funding to scale a proof-of-concept.

Shortlisted companies will be contacted from 8 May and invited to pitch their ideas before three are chosen to move forward to the next stage, where the proof-of-concept will be developed in partnership with LNER. A Demo Day will then be held in Central London in September.

To find out more about LNER FutureLabs, visit www.lnerfuturelabs.co.uk

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