Siemens to acquire industry-specific software for mobility sector

Siemens on Monday announced its plans to acquire HaCon, a Germany-based company providing planning, scheduling and information systems for public transportation, mobility and logistics.

The company has been a successful player in the mobility business for 30 years. Trip planning software from HaCon is used in more than 25 countries and comprises the center piece of the travel information systems in operation at more than 100 transport companies and associations.

"The acquisition of HaCon will enable us to enter a completely new business area that complements our current portfolio, expanding it to include timetable scheduling as well as trip planning by passengers. With this move, we're rigorously implementing our digitalisation strategy and opening up new growth opportunities for our company along our customers' value chain," said Jochen Eickholt, CEO of Siemens' Mobility Division.

Siemens is already a leading rail automation provider, offering systems up to and including complete driverless operation. A leader in road mobility solutions as well, Siemens plans to expand its intermodal digital offerings with the acquisition of HaCon.

Together with HaCon, Siemens will be able to serve rail infrastructure operators and public transportation companies as a single-source supplier of innovative software solutions for train and route planning, timetable information systems, cutting-edge payment systems and intermodal mobility platforms.

In addition, apps for use on passengers' mobile devices will enhance trip planning, transparency and thus acceptance.

"Together with a strong partner like Siemens AG, we'll be even better equipped to drive the mobility software business, particularly in the global market," said Michael Frankenberg, CEO of HaCon.