Following the required court approval, German track and rail infrastructure component supplier Vossloh completed its previously-annuounced £29m acquisition of British LiDAR specialist Cordel on August 13.
Cordel uses Light Detection & Ranging laser measurement equipment installed on trains to create three-dimensional scans of the surrounding environment. The data collected is analysed using artificial intelligence, and can be used for the early identification of issues such as uneven ballast beds or potential obstructions caused by tree branches or low-hanging overhead electrification equipment.
Cordel operates through six group companies in three countries with 42 employees. Its technology is used by railways in the UK, Middle East, North America and Australia, with customers including Network Rail and Amtrak.
‘Cordel’s technology is a perfect addition to our portfolio’, said Vossloh CEO Oliver Schuster. ‘It gives our customers an even more comprehensive view of their rail networks and lays the groundwork for predictive maintenance and more reliable operations.’
Cordel CEO John Davis said the takeover meant that ‘as part of the Vossloh Group, we can continue to develop our technology and pursue our shared vision of transforming rail infrastructure through innovation’.
