This article first appeared in the Railway-News magazine, Issue 3 2022.
Finland is a small but efficient northern country that is home to many world-class companies.
Their competitive advantages have included high-level expertise, customer insight, co-operation and the courage to do things in new ways. VR FleetCare is a provider of rail fleet maintenance and lifecycle services that is on its way to becoming the leading fleet maintenance company in Northern Europe. The company’s extensive industry experience and roots in Finnish society provide it with a strong foundation, but why is it the best choice as your fleet maintenance partner or manufacturer?
This year marks the 160th anniversary of VR FleetCare’s maintenance business, which began with looking after the fleet of the Finnish railway operator.
After the maintenance business was incorporated a few years ago, VR FleetCare began to successfully execute its growth strategy. Growth is sought via other railway traffic and in neighbouring areas, covering all Northern Europe.
“Our Finnish roots taught us to live frugally during the early days of the company. This has enabled us to build unique expertise in extending the lifecycle of rolling stock and components. We also specialise in repairing components that have been discarded by others. By doing so, we operate in line with our values and harness the circular economy as part of our operations. There are also other advantages to being Finnish: we have a very broad range of competencies and a high standard of safety in working life, which produces highly committed employees. Finns are also known for their reliability. We keep our word and do things exactly as agreed.”
Climate change is driving global action, while urbanisation is increasing the need for public transport. This will further increase the popularity of rail transport in the future. What does this mean for operators?
In the near future, all rail companies, operators and fleet owners will need to carefully consider how to respond to the growing popularity of rail transport. The procurement of new rolling stock involves long processes, and there is a need for short-term solutions. All existing rolling stock needs to be in use, and many operators are considering ways to extend the lifecycle of their fleet.
“Fleet modernisation and retrofit projects are our bread and butter, and we solve all of our customers’ challenges according to their wishes. We also have a very strong partnership network. The same subcontractors are used for building cruise ships and for equipping trains and wagons.”
Use the form opposite to get in touch with VR FleetCare directly to discuss any requirements you might have.