PJM Expands Testing New Track WaggonTracker for Europe

GRAZ, AUSTRIA – Rail technology group PJM has broadened its service portfolio over the last three years, adding new ISO/IEC-accredited testing capabilities and launching a dedicated authorization management subsidiary, PJ Motion, in summer 2023. This expansion, which includes a new test track near Graz, aims to provide a single-source solution for vehicle development and certification for clients such as SBB Cargo, VTG, and ÖBB Train Tech.

What Is the Full Scope of This Development?

The strategic expansion of the PJM group encompasses several key areas to create an end-to-end service for rolling stock development and approval. The company’s ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory now covers seven distinct fields, including a unique accreditation in Austria for both physical and simulated pantograph testing. PJM has also established INFRATRACK Solutions to operate its own test site and expanded its Graz facility to increase capacity for manufacturing instrumented wheelsets.

Key Development Data

How Does This Compare to Industry Trends?

PJM’s strategy of creating an integrated service hub mirrors a wider industry trend of specialized collaboration to manage increasing project complexity. This model is comparable to strategic partnerships such as the one between Delhi Metro International Ltd (DMIL) and rolling stock manufacturer BEML, which was formed to jointly pursue international project bids (Source: Railway Gazette, 2026). In the digital freight sector, PJM’s WaggonTracker system competes with established telematics solutions. Competitor Nexxiot offers its Globehopper sensor focused on asset tracking and condition monitoring, while Savvy Telematics Systems provides the CargoTrac device for logistics management. PJM’s offering differentiates itself by integrating directly with dynamic vehicle systems, such as brakes and derailment detection, powered by a self-contained energy harvesting unit.

Editor’s Analysis

PJM is positioning itself not merely as a service provider but as a critical systems integrator for the entire rolling stock lifecycle, absorbing complexity for manufacturers in a volatile economic climate. This one-stop-shop approach directly addresses the market’s need for accelerated, de-risked development and authorization of new vehicles. The company’s focus on digital freight monitoring with its WaggonTracker system also aligns with the broader push for network-based efficiency gains and decarbonization in logistics, a trend vital for rail to compete with road transport (Source: Maritime Executive).

FAQ

Q: What makes PJM’s pantograph testing unique in Austria?
A: PJM is the only company in Austria with an ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for both physical pantograph measurements according to EN 50317 and simulations based on EN 50318. This dual capability provides a complete assessment of the pantograph-catenary system.

Q: What are the core functions of the WaggonTracker system?
A: The WaggonTracker is a self-powered digital monitoring system for freight wagons. It provides real-time data on brake system status, load weight, derailment diagnosis, and kingpin monitoring, enabling functions like Automated Brake Testing.

Q: Who are PJM’s key clients for these expanded services?
A: The company’s client base includes major European railway undertakings, wagon keepers, and manufacturers such as Westbahn, DB InfraGo, ÖBB Train Tech, SBB Cargo, VTG, and Tatravagónka.