The Škoda Group has now obtained a 93.9% stake in Belgian-based – The Signalling Company. The digital rail system safety developer creates safety software and signalling systems for the rail industry. The remaining 6.1% stake in The Signalling Company is held by the company’s two executives Stanislas Pinte and Frederic Du Jardin.

The acquisition is part of Škoda Group’s ongoing expansion strategy which will see them move into mobility systems. The group also saw a takeover of the Austrian operations of Molinari Rail which is a technical engineering and design company.

The Signalling Company creates state-of-the-art Level 4 safety software which is compatible with the European Train Control System standard and can also be utilised with autonomous mobility.

CEO of Škoda Group, Didier Pfleger said: “Expanding our portfolio with our own signalling solutions, especially ETCS, is important to the Group’s success in European markets, especially in Western Europe. This sector has great potential, and we’re looking forward to developing new solutions to improve rail transport safety, efficiency and sustainability,”

The acquisition of The Signalling Company will increase Škoda Group’s competitiveness with European train manufacturers and will enable it to offer a vast range of products and facilities to rail operators across Western Europe, especially in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.

At present, The Signalling Company is equipping 110 locomotives with European Train Control System for Linea which is  Europe’s biggest private rail freight operator.

Škoda Group will integrate The Signalling Company’s 38 employees within its own business line ‘Signalling’ and will be set up under the care of Stanislas Pinte who has become Vice President for Signalling. Mr Pinte will oversee the full development of the current signalling solutions alongside the development of new technologies in this field.

Vice President Signalling at Škoda Group, Stanislas Pinte said: “With the entry of a large and successful partner into our company, there are further great opportunities for growth in the signalling business. Thanks to Škoda Group’s investment and the connection with such a major European rolling stock manufacturer, we will gain access to the European market,”