One of the leading rail freight operators in EuropeGraph technology and AI for a more efficient rail freight network
How do you build a solution that mirrors one of Europe’s largest rail freight networks – while supporting fast, well-informed decisions in a complex operational environment? Together with a major European freight operator, HiQ has developed a digital twin using graph database technology, AI, and smart system integration. The result: full control over operations and the transformation of fragmented data into a strategic asset.
The challenge: Fragmented data limited insight and decision-making power
The freight operator transports goods across the European continent. Punctuality, reliability, and optimized network usage are critical for both profitability and customer satisfaction. But with data scattered across multiple support systems, gaining a complete view of operations and making sound real-time decisions proved difficult.
The company needed a solution that could connect all data flows and unlock deeper operational insights – both for immediate decisions and long-term optimization.
The solution: A digital twin connecting the entire freight flow
HiQ developed a digital twin – a real-time digital model of the operator’s business operations. At the core lies the Neo4j graph database, which enables connections across the entire ecosystem: from customers and orders to wagon bookings, trains, stations, and terminals throughout Europe.
The graph captures both planned and real-time operations, providing a powerful foundation for optimizing train movements, increasing load factors, and detecting potential disruptions at an early stage.
In addition, HiQ developed a prototype AI assistant that supports both customer service and operational processes. The assistant can answer virtually any question related to train, locomotive, and wagon movements, as well as customer bookings – their current status and expected arrival times.
The Result: From fragmented data to strategic asset
Previously siloed data has now been woven into a living model of the business. The graph-based digital twin offers both overview and depth, enabling:
- Real-time visualization of the entire operation—from individual wagons to complete networks
- Early identification and management of potential disruptions
- Support for optimizing train movements and increasing load factors
- Stronger foundations for faster, more informed decision-making
The result is a more insight-driven and proactive organization, where previously fragmented information has become a powerful tool for advancing the business.
“We connect advanced technology with operational realities – and create true business value”
Anders Bergkvist
Solution Architect, HiQ
