Intelligent system combining the strengths of multiple components
“With HEFES, we have brought together the strengths of all key components for the front ends of trams and LRVs into a single intelligent system solution. This underlines our commitment to provide seamless system integration and optimal service to rail vehicle manufacturers and transport operators,” explains Christopher Sames, Managing Director of HEMSCHEIDT Rail. HEFES front-end system solutions can be seen at the InnoTrans exhibition from 22 to 25 September 2026 in Hall 1.2, Booth 120.
HEFES combines all of the key elements of a front-end system for trams, street cars and light rail vehicles. It has been developed by HEMSCHEIDT Rail, a company of the HÜBNER Group. The system includes the front-end shell and bumper, kinematic elements for precise movement, as well as dampers and absorption elements designed for energy absorption and the reduction of impact forces in the event of a collision. Intelligent sensor technology for monitoring functions is also included in the system.
One integrated system: Fewer interfaces, lower life cycle costs
“Our HEFES system incorporates HÜBNER’s 30 years of experience that in the field of bumper systems. This is joined with proven expertise in front-end shells, damping and system integration,” says Christopher Sames. “The decisive factor is not any individual component, but the seamless integration of all the components into a complete, high-performance system solution. This delivers real benefits for our customers in the form of reduced interfaces and lower life cycle costs.”
HEFES is made possible as a complete system through the range of expertise that is available across the HÜBNER Group. The affiliated company HEMSCHEIDT Rail has the overall system responsibility for HEFES, covering the product architecture, the integration of components, the management of interfaces, the supplier coordination and overall system performance. HÜBNER contributes its many years of materials and manufacturing expertise in the front-end field, together with extensive know-how in design and bodywork applications.
Added value for manufacturers and operators
HEFES is the solution of choice for vehicle manufacturers and public transport operators looking for an integrated system solution for front-ends in trams, streetcars and LRVs. Customers benefit from high system availability and low life cycle costs resulting from a fully coordinated set of components.
As a fully integrated front end system, HEFES is simple to install. The modular plug-and-play design with clearly defined interfaces makes it suitable not only for new vehicles, but also for the retrofitting and modernization of existing fleets. In addition, the HÜBNER Group provides comprehensive service support throughout the entire product life cycle – from initial installation through all aspects of system maintenance.
Meeting highest requirements for robustness, weight and fire protection
HEFES can be manufactured from glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GRP) as well as polyurethane (PU). The materials meet demanding requirements for robustness, weight and fire protection in accordance with EN 45545-2 R17 HL3. For impact absorption in the event of a collision, HEFES can be equipped with both reversible energy absorption elements such as dampers as well as irreversible elements.
“GRP offers particular advantages as a material: It is lightweight, corrosion resistant and highly resilient. GRP combines the advantages of glass fibers and plastic to offer an excellent solution for the mobility sector,” explains Konrad Brimo, Vice President Global Sales Material Solutions at the HÜBNER Group.
GRP solutions from a single source
Through its affiliated company Gummi-Welz Poland (GWP), the HÜBNER Group provides in-depth GRP expertise and manufacturing capabilities. These extend from the initial design concept and development to painting, assembly and final finishing. This gives OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers access to comprehensive GRP solutions from a single source.
HEFES is just one of many products GWP can supply in the mobility sector. Using a wide range of modern GRP manufacturing technologies – including RTM and LRTM injection molding, vacuum-injection molding, hand lamination and spray-up as well as foaming-resin processes – GWP produces a broad portfolio of components. These include front-end modules, interior paneling, instrument panels, door pillars and seat boxes, brackets, and pillar claddings with integrated electronics.
HEFES, GRP expertise and more at InnoTrans 2026
The HÜBNER Group will be showcasing its HEFES front-end solutions and its GRP expertise at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin. The company will also be presenting a host of other new developments and innovations at Booth 120 in Hall 1.2, offering a broad range of products for greater safety, efficiency and reliability in rail transport. More information about the HÜBNER Group at InnoTrans 2026 is available online at: www.hubner-group.com/innotrans/
