Alstom has just completed installing the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) into the 100th train as part of Norway’s digital rail transformation to move it closer to a fully digital and higher-capacity railway, which will enable its trains to operate across the European rail network.
The programme will eventually see more than 350 trains upgraded for ERTMS operation in one of the most ambitious signalling programmes carried out in Europe, with Alstom ultimately installing ERTMS on Norway’s entire railway fleet.
Through ERTMS, the Norwegian railway network will be able to operate at a higher capacity and with improved punctuality, reliability, and long-term interoperability.
Cutting a ribbon to mark the completion of the 100th train. // Credit: AlstomThe ERTMS upgrades are being carried out in collaboration with Norwegian train operators Bane NOR, Norske Tog, Vy Group, SJ Norge, as well as freight operators.
The necessary software and hardware modifications are being carried out at Alstom’s Norwegian depots at Grorud near Oslo and Marienborg near Trondheim, and the 100th installation was celebrated with key stakeholders at a special ceremony at the Grorud depot.
ERTMS is being installed in all of Norway’s passenger trains, locomotives, and track maintenance machines.
A next-generation odometry system will use satellite positioning, specially engineered for reliable operation in Norway’s challenging climatic conditions.
As well as installing ERTMS on Norway’s trains, Alstom is in the process of delivering up to 200 Coradia Nordic regional trains to Norwegian operator Norske Tog.
The system has already been installed in two fleets of heavy-duty maintenance machine vehicles and rescue locomotives owned and operated by the Norwegian operator Bane NOR. Currently, up to four passenger trains are being upgraded each month, using Alstom’s Onvia Cab system, which is designed be installed seamlessly into both new and existing trains.
Alstom’s previous experience with digital signalling includes more than 300 projects in over 40 countries.
Last September, Alstom completed the installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 on the first train in Ireland.
“Passing the 100-train mark shows how far we have come on this journey. ERTMS will help boost track capacity, raise punctuality and save money by reducing wayside equipment. None of this would be possible without the outstanding commitment of our teams, who are driving this transformation every day.”
Jörg Nikutta, MD, Alstom Denmark & Norway