Austria and Germany strengthen European rail research Mobility Minister Hanke and Germany's Transport Minister Bilger at first bilateral exchange in Berlin: Innovation, Automated Driving, Brenner and Aviation in focus
On the sidelines of InnoTrans in Berlin, Mobility Minister Peter Hanke met Germany's Transport Minister Steffen Bilger for a first bilateral exchange. The focus of the conversation was the future of European rail research, joint initiatives in the field of automated mobility, as well as current traffic policy challenges. Both ministers emphasised the close and partnership-based cooperation between Austria and Germany.
A central topic was the continuation of Europe's Rail Joint Undertaking, the European partnership for research and innovation in the rail sector. The programme, in its current form, is set to expire in 2027. Austria is strongly advocating for a continuation in line with its Industry Strategy 2035 – Germany has also clearly expressed a positive stance on this.
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"The continuation of Europe's Rail Joint Undertaking is a common concern for Austria and Germany. If we want to get more people and goods onto the rail, we need innovation that is thought across borders. European rail research strengthens our industry, secures good jobs and advances us significantly in terms of the mobility transition. I am pleased that we are pulling together with Germany on this,” said Mobility Minister Peter Hanke after the conversation.
Automated mobility: Innovation must not end at national borders
Austria and Germany also wish to cooperate more closely in the field of automated mobility in the future. Hanke and Bilger emphasised the need for joint, cross-border initiatives to consistently advance research and innovation in this future field. Automated mobility can make a significant contribution to improved traffic safety, better public transport services, and more efficient use of infrastructure. It is crucial for Hanke that technological developments serve people and benefit everyone.
"Innovation does not end at national borders. Especially in automated mobility, we can achieve more together than each country can individually. I had a very good, constructive exchange on equal terms with Steffen Bilger. We agree that we want to advance research and development in this area collaboratively and cross-border," said Hanke.
Aviation and Brenner further topics on the agenda
Additionally, the two ministers exchanged views on other traffic policy issues, including the current challenges in the aviation sector. Hanke emphasised the importance of a strong, competitive European aviation location with fair framework conditions – for employees as well as for Austria's connectivity to Europe and the world. Hanke also highlighted to Bilger the significance of trans-alpine rail connections, as well as the situation of Tyrol's transit-burdened residents.
The conversation took place on the sidelines of InnoTrans in Berlin, which, from 22 to 25 September 2026, brings together representatives from politics, business, and transport as an international leading trade fair for transport technology.