Rail Power Systems GmbH acquires HST Hilser Straßen und Tiefbau GmbH as a wholly owned subsidiary
Rail Power Systems GmbH (RPS), one of the leading providers of railway infrastructure in the field of railway electrification/railway power supply, acquired all shares in HST Hilser Straßen- und Tiefbau GmbH (HST Hilser) on 7 July 2025. The purchase agreement was signed in Berlin by the previous owner of HST Hilser, Detlef Hilser, and RPS Managing Director Dr Michael Bernhardt in the presence of a notary.
Sustainable partnership and strategic development
With this transaction, RPS secures the long-standing expertise and capacities of the renowned HST Hilser, which has earned an excellent reputation as a subcontractor to RPS in the field of electrical equipment (50 Hz/telecommunications technology) and railway power supply. HST Hilser will continue to operate as an independent company under the leadership of Managing Director Uwe Niebuhr, maintaining its proven market presence.
The business processes and structures at Rail Power Systems and HST Hilser will not change as a result of the takeover. Everything will remain the same for existing HST Hilser customers – the familiar contact persons, high service quality and proven services will continue to be available in full.
Dr Michael Bernhardt, Managing Director of Rail Power Systems GmbH, emphasises:
‘With HST Hilser, we are securing a trusting partnership and setting the course for sustainable joint growth in the future market of railway infrastructure. At the same time, HST Hilser will remain an independent company within the RPS Group. Our common goal is sustainable, continuous growth and the continuation of the success story of both companies.’
The change is taking place as part of an age-related succession plan: Detlef Hilser, long-time owner of HST Hilser GmbH, is retiring from active business life as part of the change of ownership.
Growth through consistency
This acquisition is a prime example of Rail Power Systems GmbH's growth strategy. As a member of the RPS Group, HST Hilser has the opportunity to grow further, while at the same time strengthening the electrical equipment and railway energy supply division within RPS.
Company profiles
Rail Power Systems GmbH
Rail Power Systems is an engineering-driven technology company and general contractor for railway infrastructure. The company is one of the leading system providers for catenary systems, railway power supply and electrical equipment. With extensive experience in the field of railway electrification, Rail Power Systems sets standards in the development and implementation of modern railway infrastructure – both in Germany and internationally.
HST Hilser Straßen- und Tiefbau GmbH
HST Hilser Straßen- und Tiefbau GmbH, based in Berlin, was founded in 2001 and specialises in road construction, civil engineering and pipeline construction. Among other things, the company carries out cable laying and installation and dismantling work, often for Deutsche Bahn.
