Merklingen train station: World’s largest electric vehicle charging park

July 9, 2024

Merklingen train station, located between Stuttgart and Ulm, boasts the world’s largest electric vehicle charging park with 259 charging points and locally generated solar power. Since its inauguration in December 2022, the station has served 1,000 to 1,300 passengers daily, contributing significantly to the local economy. The state Ministry of Transport estimates an annual economic benefit of 4.8 million euros for the region, spurred by growth in hospitality, retail, and tourism.

Ensuring safety and efficient operations at this key transport hub, the Zweckverband Schwäbische Alb management team enlisted Reif GmbH to install an advanced video management system (VMS). The station required a future-proof, intuitive system compliant with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Advanced Video Management System
Hanwha Vision’s WAVE VMS was selected for its user-friendly interface, NDAA compliance, and robust camera features. Reif GmbH, a Diamond Partner of Hanwha Vision, provided a 5-year warranty on the cameras.

A total of 37 cameras, including the QNO-8080R (5MP Network IR Bullet Camera), TID-600R (Intercom), and XNO-9082R (4K IR Bullet Camera with Wisenet7 chipset), were installed around the station’s car park. These cameras offer powerful video analytics such as directional detection, audio detection, shock detection, and face/upper body detection, ensuring continuous monitoring and safety.

Benefits of an Open System
Hanwha Vision’s open platform offered the flexibility needed for future integrations, including a custom AI parking control system developed with a regional software company. This system automates parking management, eliminating the need for personnel to manage access and fees.

The open platform also supports future expansions of the video surveillance system, providing scalability as the station’s needs evolve.

Enhanced Security and Compliance
The integrated cameras prevent unauthorised vehicle entry and capture crucial footage for investigating property damage. The XNO-9082R camera, with its Wisenet7 chipset, excels in various lighting conditions, providing clear images for situational awareness. Its IK10 water and vandal protection ensures durability in outdoor settings.

Compliance with GDPR is a priority, and Hanwha Vision cameras meet these requirements by ensuring no productive data is passed to external parties. The system operates entirely on-premise, with data accessible only to authorised personnel.

Maintenance staff can access the on-premise server remotely in emergencies via WAVE Mobile, ensuring continuous operation and swift issue resolution.

“The performance and quality of Hanwha Vision cameras along with the open WAVE VMS that could work with the in-house AI parking management system made it the logical choice for the Merklingen station project,” said Andreas Baumann, Managing Director at Reif GmbH.

Merklingen train station continues to set a benchmark in integrating sustainable transport solutions with advanced security and management systems, contributing to a safer and more efficient travel experience for all visitors.

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