Siemens recently formed an Infrastructure & Cities (IC) in North America sector, which comprises the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Central America. Positive train control, signaling software and a new S70 streetcar, all tools used in the new sector, were on display in Booth # 4133. 

Designed to help customers run their rail operations more efficiently, the sector is organized into five divisions: Building Technologies, Low and Medium Voltage (power distribution for utilities and facilities), Mobility and Logistics (traffic, transport and logistics management), Rail Systems (rail vehicles) and Smart Grid (intelligent power grids).

Siemens will continue to serve its established customer base under the new structure. The divisions will more closely align their respective businesses with their target markets, enabling the manufacturer to bundle its solutions for mobility, environmental protection and energy savings into one comprehensive offering.

Transportation is a key driver in cities, and the IC sector directly addresses the needs of city planners and policy makers, Rich Palmieri, director, business development said.

Featured products that serve important functions in the IC divisions included Siemens’ Vicos train control system, which enhances the dispatcher’s ability to monitor trains and set safety, efficiency and command-and-control parameters; Sicas S7 positive train control platform, designed specifically for the U.S. rail market, with interfaces and functionality required by North American operators; Sitras Pro, which protects DC switch gear and contact line systems against critical operating conditions and detects short-circuits, helping rail operators respond to traction events; and its new S70 streetcar, which Siemens shortened for the emerging U.S. market.

The shell on display for the streetcar being built for the Utah Transit Authority features a shorter, concealed coupler, designed for easy replacement to be more street environment-friendly, Palmieri said.