Railway Traction Motors Market
By Motor Type;
DC Traction Motor, AC Traction Motor and Synchronous AC Traction MotorBy Application;
Diesel Locomotives, Electric Locomotives and Diesel-Electric LocomotivesBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Railway Traction Motor Market Overview
Railway Traction Motor Market (USD Million)
Railway Traction Motor Market was valued at USD 37,349.48 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 50,487.98 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.4%.
Railway Traction Motors Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 4.4 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 | 
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 | 
| CAGR (%) | 4.4 % | 
| Market Size (2024) | USD 37,349.48 Million | 
| Market Size (2031) | USD 50,487.98 Million | 
| Market Concentration | High | 
| Report Pages | 304 | 
Major Players
- ABB Group
 - ALSTOM
 - BHEL
 - Bombardier
 - Hyundai Rotem Company
 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
 - Saini Group
 - Siemens
 - Sulzer Ltd.
 - VEM Group
 
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Railway Traction Motors Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Railway Traction Motors Market plays a crucial role in powering locomotives, metros, and high-speed trains, enabling efficient movement of heavy loads and passengers. With rising adoption of electrified railway systems, traction motors are increasingly being recognized for their ability to provide high torque, energy efficiency, and improved operational reliability. More than 55% of newly deployed locomotives now integrate advanced traction motors to reduce emissions and enhance performance.
Key Drivers Accelerating Growth
A strong push toward electrification of rail networks and demand for sustainable mobility are major growth enablers. Nearly 40% of global railway projects have adopted energy-efficient traction motors to lower operational costs and carbon footprint. Additionally, urbanization and growing reliance on metro rail systems further boost the market’s momentum.
Technological Advancements Enhancing Adoption
The integration of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), advanced cooling systems, and lightweight materials has strengthened motor efficiency and reliability. Around 45% of recent deployments utilize motors with smart monitoring features, reducing downtime and improving operational safety. These innovations are reshaping the landscape by enhancing durability and lowering maintenance costs.
Strategic Developments and Collaborations
The industry is witnessing collaborations, mergers, and partnerships among OEMs and technology providers to expand product offerings. More than 30% of manufacturers are focusing on joint innovation projects to deliver motors tailored for high-speed trains and heavy freight operations. Such alliances ensure rapid adoption of cutting-edge traction systems across multiple regions.
Railway Traction Motors Market Key Takeaways
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The growing shift towards electric and sustainable rail transport is driving the demand for high-performance railway traction motors, which are critical for energy-efficient, low-emission rail systems.
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Technological advancements in motor efficiency, reliability, and compact design are enhancing the performance of traction motors, allowing for faster, quieter, and more energy-efficient trains.
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With increasing investments in rail infrastructure and electrification projects in emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, the demand for advanced traction motors is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
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High adoption of hybrid and battery-powered rail systems is fueling the need for lighter and more powerful traction motors to ensure optimal performance in diverse operating conditions.
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Europe and North America are experiencing steady growth in the market due to stringent environmental regulations and government initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints in public transport systems.
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As electric traction systems become more standardized, manufacturers are focusing on cost-effective solutions that offer long-term durability, reducing maintenance needs while meeting the rising demand for high-efficiency trains.
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Challenges include the high capital investment required for R&D and production of advanced railway traction motors, which may limit market growth for smaller players and increase industry consolidation.
 
Railway Traction Motor Market Recent Developments
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In May 2023, Toshiba unveiled a new high-efficiency railway traction motor engineered to deliver substantial energy savings while maintaining robust performance for modern rail systems. This innovation supports the global shift toward sustainable transportation by enhancing efficiency and reducing operational energy consumption.
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In September 2022, ABB introduced an advanced traction motor designed to meet the rising demand in the electric rail transport sector. The new motor enhances operational efficiency and minimizes maintenance requirements, supporting the transition toward more reliable and sustainable rail mobility solutions.
 
Railway Traction Motors Segment Analysis
In this report, the Railway Traction Motors market has been segmented by Motor Type, Application and Geography.
Railway Traction Motors, Segmentation by Motor Type
The Railway Traction Motors market is categorized by Motor Type into DC Traction Motor, AC Traction Motor, and Synchronous AC Traction Motor. The segmental differentiation highlights advancements in power efficiency, maintenance costs, and performance adaptability across railway systems. Continuous innovations in electric traction technology and infrastructure electrification projects are driving adoption of advanced motor types across regions.
DC Traction Motor
The DC Traction Motor segment continues to play a crucial role in older railway systems and cost-sensitive regions. These motors offer simplicity and ease of maintenance, making them ideal for freight locomotives and short-distance operations. However, their market share is gradually declining as AC technology becomes more prevalent due to improved energy efficiency and lower lifecycle costs.
AC Traction Motor
The AC Traction Motor segment dominates modern rail systems, driven by high power-to-weight ratio, regenerative braking capabilities, and longer operational lifespan. The segment is witnessing robust growth across urban metro networks and high-speed trains, with adoption rates exceeding 60% in newly electrified lines. Strategic collaborations among manufacturers for energy-efficient motor designs are further strengthening market expansion.
Synchronous AC Traction Motor
The Synchronous AC Traction Motor segment represents the most technologically advanced category, offering superior control precision and efficiency optimization in high-performance locomotives. Increasing demand for electric and hybrid locomotives is fueling segment growth. With continuous innovation in magnet-based synchronous systems, this motor type is projected to capture a growing share of the global traction market.
Railway Traction Motors, Segmentation by Application
The market segmentation by Application covers Diesel Locomotives, Electric Locomotives, and Diesel-Electric Locomotives. Each application segment reflects unique operational advantages and market strategies influenced by regional infrastructure and energy policies. The transition toward electrification of railways and green transportation initiatives is reshaping demand across these categories.
Diesel Locomotives
The Diesel Locomotive segment remains significant in regions with limited electrified infrastructure. These locomotives rely on traction motors to convert mechanical energy to propulsion, ensuring reliability across long-haul freight routes. While emissions regulations pose a challenge, ongoing R&D in fuel-efficient diesel technologies continues to support this segment’s relevance in mixed-traction networks.
Electric Locomotives
The Electric Locomotive segment dominates global adoption trends, driven by government electrification projects and renewable energy integration. These locomotives are more sustainable, offering lower maintenance and higher efficiency. Asia Pacific and Europe lead in adoption, accounting for more than 55% of the segment’s global share, with expanding metro and intercity networks boosting demand further.
Diesel-Electric Locomotives
The Diesel-Electric Locomotive segment bridges traditional and modern propulsion systems, combining flexibility with partial electrification benefits. These locomotives are increasingly used in transitional markets and regions with mixed rail infrastructure. Manufacturers are enhancing traction motor power density and energy recovery systems to improve overall operational efficiency.
Railway Traction Motors, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Railway Traction Motors market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
In North America, the railway traction motor market is fueled by modernization of freight and passenger rail systems. The U.S. and Canada are focusing on energy-efficient locomotive technologies and retrofitting programs to reduce emissions. Public investments and partnerships with OEMs are enhancing adoption of AC traction motors in both freight and metro applications.
Europe
Europe leads in the transition toward zero-emission rail transport, supported by stringent environmental policies and the expansion of electrified networks. The region is home to key manufacturers advancing synchronous AC technology. The EU’s ongoing investments in high-speed rail infrastructure continue to drive strong traction motor demand across the continent.
Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific region represents the largest share of the market, driven by the massive electrification programs in India, China, and Japan. The growing emphasis on high-speed and metro rail projects is boosting the need for efficient traction systems. With continuous government support, the region is expected to maintain its dominance with over 40% global share.
Middle East & Africa
In the Middle East & Africa, expanding transportation networks and investments in urban connectivity are creating opportunities for traction motor suppliers. The focus is shifting toward hybrid locomotives and electrified corridors in Gulf countries and South Africa. Market growth is supported by infrastructure diversification and increasing industrial transport demand.
Latin America
Latin America is witnessing gradual adoption of modern rail technologies as countries like Brazil and Mexico invest in rail modernization and metro expansion. The region’s market is characterized by the refurbishment of existing locomotives and the integration of energy-efficient traction systems to meet rising freight and urban mobility needs.
Railway Traction Motor Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Railway Traction Motor Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential | 
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development | 
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance | 
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances | 
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Passenger Comfort
 - Regulatory Compliance
 - Environmental Sustainability
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High-Speed Rail Expansion -High-speed rail systems demand specialized traction motors capable of delivering high power output, efficiency, and reliability to support the stringent performance requirements of high-speed operations. These traction motors must be designed to withstand the high rotational speeds and dynamic loads encountered at high speeds while ensuring precise control of traction and braking forces. With the increasing adoption of high-speed rail as a sustainable mode of transportation, driven by factors such as urbanization, population growth, and the need for efficient intercity travel, the expansion of high-speed rail networks presents significant opportunities for traction motor manufacturers. The growing demand for high-performance traction motors to power high-speed trains offers a lucrative market for innovative technologies and solutions tailored to the specific needs of high-speed rail applications, including energy efficiency, power density, and onboard comfort.
The expansion of high-speed rail also poses challenges for traction motor manufacturers, particularly in terms of meeting the stringent performance and reliability requirements of high-speed operations. High-speed trains operate at velocities exceeding conventional rail services, placing greater stress on traction motors and associated components. Traction motors for high-speed rail applications must be robust, durable, and capable of withstanding the extreme operating conditions encountered at high speeds while ensuring smooth and reliable propulsion. Additionally, high-speed rail projects often involve long lead times, complex procurement processes, and stringent regulatory requirements, which can pose challenges for traction motor manufacturers in terms of project planning, execution, and compliance. Moreover, the competitive landscape of the high-speed rail market, characterized by established players and stringent technical specifications, requires traction motor manufacturers to demonstrate technological expertise, reliability, and performance to secure contracts and maintain market share.
The expansion of high-speed rail networks presents logistical and operational challenges for traction motor manufacturers, particularly in terms of supply chain management, production capacity, and aftermarket support. High-speed rail projects typically involve large-scale deployments of traction motors across multiple trainsets and operating environments, requiring efficient production processes, inventory management, and logistics coordination to meet project timelines and delivery schedules. Additionally, the long service life and stringent maintenance requirements of high-speed rail systems necessitate robust aftermarket support and service capabilities to ensure the reliability, availability, and performance of traction motors throughout their lifecycle. Traction motor manufacturers must invest in infrastructure, resources, and capabilities to support high-speed rail projects effectively and provide responsive customer support and maintenance services to rail operators and rolling stock manufacturers.
In summary, the expansion of high-speed rail presents both opportunities and challenges for the Global Railway Traction Motor Market. While the growing demand for high-performance traction motors to power high-speed trains offers significant growth potential for manufacturers, the stringent performance requirements, competitive landscape, and logistical complexities associated with high-speed rail projects pose challenges that must be addressed to capitalize on emerging opportunities effectively. By leveraging technological innovation, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships, traction motor manufacturers can navigate the complexities of the high-speed rail market and position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive and dynamic rail transportation landscape.
 
Restraints:
- Space Limitations
 - Weight Restrictions
 - Cost Considerations
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Retrofitting Challenges - Railway Traction Motor Market, retrofitting poses significant challenges due to the complexities involved in integrating new traction motor systems into existing rolling stock and infrastructure. Retrofitting refers to the process of upgrading or replacing outdated traction motors with modern, more efficient, or environmentally friendly alternatives. While retrofitting offers benefits such as improved performance, energy savings, and reduced emissions, it also presents technical, logistical, and cost-related challenges for railway operators and rolling stock manufacturers.
One major challenge in retrofitting traction motors is compatibility with existing infrastructure and control systems. Railway networks often consist of diverse fleets of rolling stock with varying configurations, ages, and technical specifications. Retrofitting new traction motors requires careful consideration of factors such as motor size, mounting arrangements, electrical interfaces, and communication protocols to ensure seamless integration with existing platforms and systems. Compatibility issues can arise when retrofitting older trains or mixed fleets, requiring customized solutions and additional engineering efforts to overcome technical barriers.
Retrofitting traction motors entails significant costs, which may pose financial challenges for railway operators and asset owners. Retrofit projects involve expenses related to motor procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning, as well as potential downtime and service disruptions during implementation. Cost considerations may vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the retrofit, the scale of the fleet, and the availability of funding or incentives for electrification and modernization projects. Balancing the upfront investment with long-term benefits and return on investment (ROI) is crucial for assessing the feasibility and viability of retrofitting initiatives.
Retrofitting traction motors requires careful planning and coordination to minimize operational impacts and ensure regulatory compliance. Retrofit projects may involve modifications to mechanical, electrical, and control systems, as well as compliance with safety standards, emissions regulations, and interoperability requirements. Coordinating retrofit activities with scheduled maintenance intervals or planned service disruptions can help mitigate operational risks and optimize project timelines, but it requires effective communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement among railway operators, manufacturers, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Overall, retrofitting traction motors in the Global Railway Traction Motor Market presents multifaceted challenges that require careful consideration of technical, logistical, financial, and regulatory factors. While retrofitting offers opportunities to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability in rail transportation, addressing challenges related to compatibility, cost, and implementation complexity is essential for successful project execution. By leveraging innovative technologies, best practices, and collaborative approaches, stakeholders can overcome retrofitting challenges and unlock the potential for modernization and electrification in the railway industry.
 
Opportunities:
- Retrofitting solutions
 - Environmental sustainability
 - Market regulations
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Intermodal connectivity-Railway Trac-tion Motor Market is intricately linked to the concept of intermodal connectivity, which emphasizes seamless transportation integration across different modes such as rail, road, air, and sea. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, efficient transportation systems play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and people across various regions. Railways, with their ability to transport large volumes of freight and passengers over long distances, serve as a backbone for intermodal connectivity initiatives.
Railway traction motors play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and performance of railway propulsion systems, thereby contributing to the seamless operation of intermodal transportation networks. These motors convert electrical energy into mechanical power, propelling trains forward and enabling them to traverse diverse terrain and weather conditions. By powering locomotives and rolling stock, traction motors enable the movement of goods from manufacturing centers to distribution hubs and ultimately to consumers, fostering global trade and economic growth.
The adoption of advanced traction motor technologies, such as AC and synchronous motors, enhances the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of rail transport systems. By reducing energy consumption and emissions, these motors contribute to the development of greener transportation solutions that align with global sustainability goals. Additionally, innovations in traction motor design and manufacturing enable railway operators to improve reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall system performance, further facilitating the seamless integration of rail transport within intermodal networks.
The Global Railway Traction Motor Market plays a pivotal role in promoting intermodal connectivity by providing efficient, reliable, and environmentally sustainable propulsion solutions for rail transport systems. As governments and industry stakeholders continue to prioritize multimodal transportation initiatives, the demand for advanced traction motors is expected to grow, driving innovation and investment in the global rail industry. By embracing intermodal connectivity and leveraging cutting-edge traction motor technologies, railway operators can optimize their operations and contribute to the development of interconnected transportation networks that benefit society as a whole.
 
Railway Traction Motors Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Railway Traction Motors Market is expanding as the demand for efficient, reliable, and energy-efficient motors in railway systems rises, driven by the need for high-speed trains and the electrification of railways. Companies are focusing on innovation and strategic collaborations to develop advanced traction motor technologies that enhance performance, reduce energy consumption, and ensure safety. This growing demand is expected to drive market growth by 28% in the coming years.
Market Structure and Concentration
The railway traction motors market is characterized by a combination of established manufacturers of railway equipment and specialized suppliers of traction motors. Market concentration is increasing due to mergers and acquisitions, enabling companies to expand their technological capabilities and strengthen their product offerings. This trend is projected to result in a 30% rise in market concentration over the next few years.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Leading players in the railway traction motors market are adopting branding and distribution strategies to increase their market presence in the transportation and infrastructure sectors. Many companies are forming strategic partnerships with rail operators, locomotive manufacturers, and government agencies to enhance market reach and improve adoption rates. These brand strategies are expected to drive growth by 32% in market share over the next few years.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Technological advancements in motor efficiency, lightweight materials, and regenerative braking systems are key drivers of innovation in the railway traction motors market. Companies are investing in R&D to develop motors with higher power output, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced reliability. These technological advancements are expected to lead to a 35% growth in market size over the next few years.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional expansion plays a critical role in the growth of the railway traction motors market, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, where the electrification of rail systems and high-speed rail projects are advancing rapidly. Companies are focusing on expansion into emerging markets with growing railway infrastructure. This regional momentum is expected to drive a 38% increase in market adoption in these regions.
Future Outlook
The future outlook for the railway traction motors market is positive, driven by continuous innovation and the increasing demand for high-performance, energy-efficient rail transportation solutions. As global investments in rail infrastructure rise, the market is projected to grow by 40% in the coming years.
Key players in Railway Traction Motor Market include:
- ABB Group
 - ALSTOM
 - BHEL
 - Bombardier
 - Hyundai Rotem Company
 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
 - Saini Group
 - Siemens
 - Sulzer Ltd.
 - VEM Group
 
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
 - Company Overview and Product Portfolio
 - Key Developments
 - Financial Overview
 - Strategies
 - Company SWOT Analysis
 
- Introduction 
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
 - Research Methodology
 - Abbreviations
 
 - Market Definition & Study Scope
 - Executive Summary 
- Market Snapshot, By Motor Type
 - Market Snapshot, By Application
 - Market Snapshot, By Region
 
 - Railway Traction Motor Market Dynamics 
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
- Drivers 
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Passenger Comfort
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Regulatory Compliance
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Environmental Sustainability
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High-Speed Rail Expansion
 
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 - Restraints 
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Space Limitations
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Weight Restrictions
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Cost Considerations
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Retrofitting Challenges
 
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 - Opportunities 
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Retrofitting solutions
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Environmental sustainability
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Market regulations
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Intermodal connectivity
 
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 - Drivers 
 - PEST Analysis 
- Political Analysis
 - Economic Analysis
 - Social Analysis
 - Technological Analysis
 
 - Porter's Analysis 
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
 - Bargaining Power of Buyers
 - Threat of Substitutes
 - Threat of New Entrants
 - Competitive Rivalry
 
 
 - Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities 
 - Market Segmentation 
- Railway Traction Motors Market, By Motor Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- DC Traction Motor
 - AC Traction Motor
 - Synchronous AC Traction Motor
 
 - Railway Traction Motors Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
- Diesel Locomotives
 - Electric Locomotives
 - Diesel-Electric Locomotives
 
 - Railway Traction Motor Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
-  North America 
- United States
 - Canada
 
 - Europe 
- Germany
 - United Kingdom
 - France
 - Italy
 - Spain
 - Nordic
 - Benelux
 - Rest of Europe
 
 - Asia Pacific 
- Japan
 - China
 - India
 - Australia & New Zealand
 - South Korea
 - ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
 - Rest of Asia Pacific
 
 - Middle East & Africa 
- GCC
 - Israel
 - South Africa
 - Rest of Middle East & Africa
 
 - Latin America 
- Brazil
 - Mexico
 - Argentina
 - Rest of Latin America
 
 
 -  North America 
 
 - Railway Traction Motors Market, By Motor Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million) 
 - Competitive Landscape 
- Company Profiles 
- ABB Group
 - ALSTOM
 - BHEL
 - Bombardier
 - Hyundai Rotem Company
 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
 - Saini Group
 - Siemens
 - Sulzer Ltd.
 - VEM Group
 
 
 - Company Profiles 
 - Analyst Views
 - Future Outlook of the Market
 

