What Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG does

Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG is a German precision engineering company founded in 1964 in Breisach am Rhein, Baden-Württemberg, that specializes in two complementary product lines. The first is rail track measurement technology, offering over 20 specialized instruments ranging from analog mechanical devices (R-Series, GG 718, VIG 1300) to advanced digital systems (MessReg CDM, MessReg CTS II, MessReg PTP II, RSCM, ROSPECT) for track geometry, switch inspection, rail profile, and rail defect detection. The second is drive technology, producing axial flux disc rotor motors (TDS series), hub motor systems with planetary gearboxes (TDSG series), motor controllers (ACS series), and AP-X stamping/winding machines for stator and rotor production, introduced in 2013.

The company maintains full vertical integration in-house, including development, construction, production, assembly, electronics design (since 2003), and software development (since 2000), supported by proprietary measurement principles such as the RMF longitudinal profile measurement principle and RSCM magnetic flux-based rail defect detection. Products hold Deutsche Bahn approvals and comply with DIN EN standards, with ISO 9001:2015 certification from TÜV SÜD. The customer base spans national railway operators, transit systems, and rail construction companies across approximately 25 countries.

Vogel & Plötscher generates revenue through direct hardware sales of measurement instruments and electric drive systems, supplemented by maintenance, calibration, and technical support services. Distribution combines direct enterprise field sales in DACH markets with an international network of approximately 25 distribution partners, including ROBEL Group entities, Plasser & Theurer subsidiaries, and independent specialists. Since 2019, the company has been majority-owned by the ROBEL Group while continuing to operate as an independent entity under the leadership of Managing Directors Elvis Beric and Wolfgang Rupert Fally.

Name

Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG

Legal name

Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG

Website

https://vogelundploetscher.de

Company type

Private

Founded year

1964

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG is a German precision engineering company that develops and manufactures specialized rail track measurement instruments and electric axial flux disc rotor motors. The company serves national railway operators, transit systems, and rail construction firms globally across approximately 25 countries.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Rail Measurement Equipment

NAICS

Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing (334519), Speed Changer, Industrial High-Speed Drive, and Gear Manufacturing (333612), Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (334515)

SIC

Industrial Instruments For Measurement, Display, And Control (3823), Motors & Generators (3621)

akta.pro primary industry

Spindles & High-Speed Drives (Machine Tool Spindles, High-speed Motors) (IMAGACAL)

akta.pro secondary industry

Linear Motion & Mechanical Power Transmission (Ball/roller screws, linear guides, bearings, couplings) (IMAHAGAM)

Keywords

• Track measurement systems
• Switch inspection devices
• Rail flaw detection
• Axial flux motors
• Traction drive technology

Headquarters

HQ city

Breisach

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Track Measurement Instruments and Systems: Sale of hand-guided and vehicle-mounted track and switch measuring devices for new construction and maintenance of railways and switches. Products include both analog and digital systems for measuring track geometry, switch inspection, rail profile, rail condition, and rail defect detection. Revenue is generated through direct sales and distributor channels globally.
2. Axial Flux Electric Motors and Drive Systems: Sale of electric disc rotor motors (TDS series), wheel hub gear units (TDSG series), motor controllers (ACS series), and AP-X punching and winding machines for stator and rotor production. Also includes custom stator manufacturing services for small series and prototypes. Revenue is generated through direct sales and distributor channels globally, primarily for off-highway applications.
3. Maintenance and Calibration Services: Annual inspection and calibration services for measurement equipment. Customers can book maintenance appointments online for up to four measurement devices. Includes repair services, support, and technical assistance as part of the comprehensive service offering.

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Vogel & Plötscher develops, manufactures, and sells hand-guided track and switch measurement devices (Gleismesstechnik) and electric axial flux disc rotor motors with motor controllers and hub gear units (Antriebstechnik). The company operates as a complete provider with in-house development, construction, production, assembly, electronics, and software from a single source. Its measurement instruments cover track geometry, switch inspection, rail profile, rail condition, and rail defect detection for railway operators and construction companies worldwide.

Product overview

Vogel & Plötscher offers two main product lines: Gleismesstechnik (track measurement technology) and Antriebstechnik (drive technology). The measurement portfolio includes over 20 specialized instruments for track and switch inspection, rail geometry measurement, and rail flaw detection - from analog mechanical devices (R-Series, GG 718, VIG 1300) to advanced digital systems (MessReg CDM, MessReg CTS II, MessReg PTP II, RSCM, ROSPECT). The drive technology line features axial flux motors (TDS series: 130FA, 150FA, 172FA, 192FA, 192W) and hub motors (TDSG series with planetary gearboxes), motor controllers (ACS series), and stator manufacturing equipment (AP-X). The company provides complete solutions with associated software, accessories, and maintenance services, serving rail infrastructure operators and construction companies worldwide.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• MessReg CDM Automatically continuously measuring switch inspection system with Deutsche Bahn approval, compliant with DB guideline 821.2005 and compatible with IIS system. Measures all common track and switch parameters with automatic data collection every 5 mm at 0.1 mm resolution. Designed for railway operators and track construction companies.
• MessReg CTS II Mobile continuous measuring track system for efficient and precise recording of track sections. Captures all relevant track parameters (distance, gauge, cross level and twist) in 100 mm intervals in real time.
• MessReg PTP II Digital switch inspection system - established standard for digital switch inspection. Point-by-point data capture with direct color highlighting of tolerance violations.
• ROSPECT Modular Inspection Platform Flexible modular inspection platform for all rail types, equipped with various measurement technologies including track geometry (IMU), rail profile, georadar, 3D scan, rail measurement, ultrasound and eddy current testing. Fully electric with up to 30 km/h measurement speed and configurable gauge 700-1,600 mm.
• RSCM Rail Flaw Inspection System Approved inspection system for detecting rail surface flaws. Detects roll contact fatigue (head checks, squats), material breakouts up to 7 mm depth using magnetic flux technology with 19 highly sensitive sensors.
• PML Laser Cross Profile Measurement System Laser-based cross profile measuring system. Determines rail cross profile and material removal according to valid regulations. Compact design with low weight for ergonomic handling.
• RM 150HR Rail Surface Quality Measurement System Determines surface quality [QKw] - the internationally valid assessment standard for objective classification of rail running surface quality. Compliant with DIN EN 13231-2:2020.
• RMF 1100 Longitudinal Profile Measurement System Approved longitudinal profile measuring system for proper verification and acceptance of reprofiling work such as milling or grinding of rails. Continuous measurement on left and right rails.
• RM 1200 D Portable Rail Roughness Measurement System Portable rail roughness measuring system for checking rail longitudinal profile and welded joints according to valid regulations. Compliant with DB Ril 824.8310:2017 and DIN EN 13231-2:2020.
• RCAD / RCAD-BT5 Digital Switch Gauge and Cross Level Measurement Device Digital switch gauge and cross level measuring device with highest accuracy and safety. Bluetooth-enabled model (RCAD-BT5) allows data storage and direct transmission to devices via optional MessApp.
• R-Series Analog Track and Switch Measurement Devices (RCA, RCS, RCFF) Analog track and switch measuring devices for new construction and maintenance of tracks and switches. Includes RCA, RCS, and RCFF models with various measurement parameters.
• HMG Digital Frog Measurement System Digital frog measurement system for determining complete overrun geometry of switch frogs in relation to a specified target profile and the runoff geometry of the frog point.
• PFIA 1 Sag Measuring Device Multi-purpose sag measuring device for determining sag heights using a string as a standing chord. Suitable for measuring during tamping operations.
• AP-X Automatic Punching and Winding Machine Automatic punching and winding machine for production of stator cores and rotors in axial flux design. Available in three sizes (AP-2, AP-4, AP-5) for various inner and outer diameters. Designed for motor manufacturers.
• TDS 130FA Compact Traction Drive Compact traction drive for low voltage applications from 24V. Popular motor with one stator and one rotor. Suitable as hub drive for mobile work machines, small construction machines, and robotic systems.
• TDS 150FA Traction Drive Traction drive for low voltage applications delivering approximately 25% more power than TDS 130FA. Used as wheel drive or efficient replacement for conventional motors.
• TDS 172FA High-Performance Traction Drive High-performance traction drive with notable power increase while maintaining compact form. Features two stators and low mass moment of inertia. Used as generator for hybrid applications, oil pump drives, and rail construction screw machines.
• TDS 192FA High-Power Traction Drive High-power traction drive available in air or water-cooled versions. Popular drive for tracked vehicles, heavy transport equipment, and rail applications. Also used as wheel hub drive.
• TDS 192W Water-Cooled Traction Drive Water-cooled version of TDS 192 for enhanced performance and extended duty cycle. Maintenance-free motor ideal for low voltage applications, also performs at higher voltages.
• TDSG 1xx-500 Hub Motor System Hub motor system combining TDS motor with directly flanged PGR 500 planetary gearbox. Compact design for direct wheel mounting without wheel bearing. Peak torque up to 500 Nm and wheel loads up to 700 kg.
• TDSG 1xx-1500 Hub Motor System Hub motor system combining TDS motor with directly flanged PGR 1500 planetary gearbox. Compact integrated gearbox with high overload capacity and peak torques up to 2000 Nm. Wheel loads up to 2100 kg.
• ACS Motor Controller Inverter controllers designed for mobile applications with firmware optimized for V&P motors from 24 to 80 VDC. Features robust design, dust and water protection, CAN bus communication, and IP 65 protection class.
• Custom Stator Manufacturing Service Stator manufacturing for small series and prototypes. Custom tool manufacturing for specific customer requirements using HSS punching tools for cost-effective prototypes or HM tools for series production.
• Annual Inspection, Calibration and Maintenance Service Annual inspection and calibration services for measurement equipment. Customers can book maintenance appointments online for up to four measurement devices. Includes repair services, support, and technical assistance as part of the comprehensive service offering.

Quantifiable outcome

• RSCM detects rail defects such as Head Checks and Squats up to 7 mm depth with 19 sensors at 5 mm intervals
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers30 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature6 records

Partnerships

21 partnerships are on record, tiered core, minor and standard.

• ROBEL Rail Automation / Track Machines ConnectedcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2024Joint development of the ROSPECT modular measurement vehicle. V&P provides measurement technology integration into the ROSPECT platform, which features V&P axial flux motors and ROBEL batteries for fully electric operation. ROSPECT is presented as a joint product at trade shows.
• R. BourgeoisminorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2021Collaboration on industrial innovation in electric motor component manufacturing. V&P and R. Bourgeois are jointly developing a novel approach in stator core production that could eliminate costly materials and complex processes such as annealing. Announced at Coiltech Augsburg March 2025.
• KH1 Pty Ltd (Australia)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P measurement technology products in Australia. Located at 114 National Blvd, Campbellfield, VIC 3061. Contact: Andrew Megna.
• ROBEL France SAS (France)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in France. Located at 52 rue de la Gare, 68520 Burnhaupt le Haut. Contact: Laurence Bauer.
• ROBEL Railway Engineering Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd (China)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in China. Located at Unit 1806, No. 158 Han Zhong Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai. Contact: William Lin.
• ROBEL North America Corporation (USA)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in the USA. Located at 254 Fernwood Ave, Edison, NJ 08837. Contact: Chris Drew. Also presents V&P products (PML) at AREMA conference.
• Plasser Scandinavia A/S (Denmark/Norway)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Denmark and Norway. Located at Lyngbyvej 421, St., DK-2820 Gentofte, Denmark. Contact: Mikael Gustafsson.
• Plasser UK Ltd (UK)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in the UK. Located at Manor Road, West Ealing, London W13 0PP. Contact: Stafford.
• Plasser Polska SP. Z o.o. (Poland)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Poland. Located at ul. Grabiszyńska 251a, 53-234 Wrocław. Contact: Tomasz Lewandowski.
• Nippon Plasser K.K. (Japan)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Japan. Located at 1-33-1 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0003. Contact: Alexander Tomsu.
• Plasser Robel Services (Switzerland)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Switzerland. Located at Badenerstrasse 13, CH-5200 Brugg. Contact: Vinzenz Bindschädler. Also co-exhibits with V&P at Punktforum Zürich.
• Rail & Road Service (Belgium)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Belgium. Located at Avenue des Cottages 19, B-4900 Spa. Contact: Olivier Saucez.
• PT. Multi Graha Teknika (Indonesia)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Indonesia. Located at Menara Global 26th floor, Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto Kav. 27, Jakarta 12950. Contact: Moeljono.
• Commel (Italy)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Italy. Located at Via Nomentana 13, 00161 Rome. Contact: Fausto Enna.
• Spiba Spoorweggereedschap BV (Netherlands)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in the Netherlands. Located at Wolfenstraat 6, 2046 XL Spaarndam. Contact: Bakker.
• Exco Transport Systems SRL (Romania)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Romania. Located at Bd Dinicu Golescu 36, Cladirea IPTANA, sector 1, 010873 Bucharest. Contact: Liviu Bart.
• Quingson Railteck Corp. (Taiwan)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Taiwan. Located at 5F-1, No. 6, Alley 6, Lane 13, Sec. 1, Nanking East Road, Taipei 10450. Contact: Chang.
• ULUTEPE DEMİRYOLU MAKİNALARI (Turkey)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Turkey. Located at İkitelli OSB Sefakoy san Sit 3. Blok No:18, Basaksehir/Istanbul. Contact: Gokhan Celik.
• VHC Trade, s.r.o. (Czech Republic/Slovakia)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Czech Republic and Slovakia. Located at Zelený pruh 99, 140 00 Praha 4. Contact: Lukáš Kaiser.
• Ratanaula Oy (Finland)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Finland. Located at 11910 Riihimäki. Contact: Mika Mankinen.
• Data Rail (Greece)standardChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorDistribution partner for V&P products in Greece. Located at Akarnansias Str. 10, 115 26 Athens. Contact: Steinhauer.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves9 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Emrax: Slovenian axial flux permanent magnet motor manufacturer serving EV, aerospace, marine and industrial traction applications. Closest direct competitor to V&P's TDS/TDSG axial flux disc rotor motors and hub motor systems.
• MERMEC: Italian-headquartered specialist in railway measurement, diagnostics and signalling equipment. MERMEC is the most direct competitor to V&P in track geometry, rail profile and switch inspection systems globally.
• Schweerbau GmbH: German railway construction and maintenance contractor using V&P measurement equipment. Operates in the same rail track-construction value chain and purchases V&P systems, making it both a customer and a structural peer in track construction.
• ROBEL Group: German manufacturer of rail construction machinery and V&P's majority parent since 2019. ROBEL produces track maintenance equipment and distributes V&P measurement products through its international subsidiaries in France, China, North America and Switzerland.
• Linsinger Maschinenbau: Austrian railway machinery manufacturer producing rail milling and grinding trains as well as track maintenance equipment. Comparable in the rail machinery and measurement ecosystem; listed as a V&P reference customer.
• Amberg Technologies: Swiss provider of rail and tunnel measurement systems, including track geometry and profile inspection. Directly comparable in the rail measurement niche, with overlap in surveying, track geometry and infrastructure inspection offerings.
• Yasa Limited: UK-based axial flux electric motor manufacturer (now part of Mercedes-Benz). Direct competitor to V&P's TDS series in the axial flux traction motor segment serving automotive-adjacent and high-performance electric drive applications.

Broad incumbents

• voestalpine AG: Austrian steel and railway technology group producing rails, turnout systems and signalling components. A V&P reference customer; operates at vastly greater scale and represents a potential integrator competitor in rail measurement.
• Plasser & Theurer: Austrian global leader in track maintenance and construction machinery (tampers, stabilizers, ballast management). Plasser entities serve as V&P distribution partners in Scandinavia, UK, Poland and Japan; a flagship V&P customer and potential bundling competitor.
• Vossloh AG: German rail infrastructure group offering rail fastening systems, switches, concrete ties and rail services. Vossloh is a V&P reference customer and a broad incumbent that could integrate measurement into turnkey rail infrastructure offerings.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/@VogelPlotscherGmbHCoKG/videos
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• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/vogel-&-pl%C3%B6tscher-gmbh-&-co.-kg

Compliance3 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles5 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Vogel & Plötscher GmbH & Co. KG