Critical Software and Stadler Launch Stadler Digital Labs

Critical Software is proud to announce the formal launch of its joint venture with Stadler, Stadler Digital Labs (STADL). 

STADL is now fully operational, with offices in Lisbon and Coimbra, and will deliver digital engineering, safety‑critical systems, and cybersecurity solutions to support Stadler’s global rail operations. 

Based in Coimbra, with a hub at Critical Software’s offices in Lisbon, the company launches with a team of 100 people and aims to grow to 300 employees over the next three years.

A Partnership Built for the Digital Future of Rail

This joint venture brings together two complementary strengths. Stadler, a global leader in the railway industry, contributes deep domain expertise and a clear vision for the digital future of mobility. Critical Software adds a proven engineering culture, a reliable delivery model, and extensive experience in safety-critical and certifiable systems — capabilities that are essential to the development of modern, digitally enabled rail networks. 

Through STADL, both companies are aligning their capabilities to advance the safety, reliability, and efficiency of rail systems worldwide. 

“Stadler Digital Labs reflects the strategic alignment between two organizations with converging visions when it comes to innovation, safety and the modernization of the railway sector. Railways are not only a highly relevant driver of growth for the Portuguese economy, but also a key enabler of safe and interoperable mobility across Europe. This collaboration will bring together the railway expertise and critical engineering and software know-how of both Critical Software and Stadler,” said Rogério Gomes, CEO of Stadler Digital Labs. 

Engineering with Purpose

At its core, STADL reflects Critical Software’s mission: helping to build a better and safer world. By applying rigorous engineering practices to complex mobility systems, this joint venture will contribute to safer, more reliable, and more sustainable transportation solutions across Stadler’s international footprint. 

“This joint venture stems from two of Critical Software’s most important pillars: trust and innovation. Our experience in critical software engineering, complex systems, and deep-tech development will help bring Stadler’s ambitious vision for the railway and mobility sector to life. The creation of joint ventures like this one, with significant added value and strong growth potential, is a powerful way of fulfilling our purpose and responding to what matters most to us: helping to build a better and safer world,” said Gonçalo Quadros, Chairman of Critical Software.

Driving Long-Term Impact 

STADL represents the next step in the evolution of the Critical Ecosystem, expanding our impact on domains where certification, reliability, and safety are paramount. It reinforces our position in complex, mission-critical environments where engineering excellence and safety are non-negotiable and affirms our strength in environments where rigor and trust are essential.  

For our people, STADL opens new horizons. It creates opportunities to tackle larger and more complex challenges, engage with new technologies and domains, and assume broader responsibilities. 

To learn more about Stadler Digital Labs and its mission, visit the STADL website and follow its LinkedIn page.