Skoda and Rhein-Neckar demonstrate autonomous depot in Mannheim

Increasing labour costs and a shortage of skilled operatives has led more tramway operators to think about automating depot procedures. The latest demonstration was arranged by Czech manufacturer Skoda in association with the tramway operator RNV that serves the German cities of Mannheim, Ludwigshafen and Heidelberg. RNV has been taking deliver of new Skoda trams since 2024, including examples that are the longest tram in the world. 

 

On 27 May there was an Autonomy Day demonstration at the Mannheim depot focused on how digitalisation, automation, artificial intelligence and intelligent operating systems can transform tram operations, maintenance and safety. Skoda tram 1422 was used to demonstrate how depot operations could be operated with less manual intervention while improving safety and efficiency. A key element is the Smart Depot concept integrating several individual systems into a co-ordinated operational system covering automated parking, controlled vehicle guidance, obstacle avoidance and automated passage through washing facilities, all monitored from a central control room. For the tram Skoda presented its Anti-collision system and Intelligent Speed Limiter. AI-powered visual inspection technology allows predictive maintenance. Self-surveillance improves passenger safety and comfort by warning drivers and dispatchers of emerging risks.