Alstom obtained ETCS Baseline 3 Release 2 certification ahead of the large-scale rollout of the solution in Norway. Alstom will implement its data fusion algorithms using both satellite navigation and inertial movement to accurately and safely measure the location and speed of trains.
The new odometry system based on data fusion, which Alstom is currently implementing in Norway, is applicable to all types of trains and all environments, including the harshest weather conditions.
ETCS includes continuous radio-based automatic train protection, thus optimising higher-speed operation and supporting network interoperability, while reducing maintenance costs for the operator. The latest standard includes higher radio capacity and other evolutions to better address railways needs.
Alstom’s data fusion innovation obviates the need for the external radar components for localisation and speed measurement that are used today. Data fusion is the process of aggregating multiple data sources to produce more consistent, accurate, and useful information than that provided by any individual data source. In this case being built as a hybrid, with both inertial and satellite sensors for the first time, its equipment is installed within the train, and thus remains unaffected by weather conditions. The algorithms used manage to maintain precision in covered areas such as tunnels.
By 2026, Alstom will equip 450 trains of 55 different types with the new standard and in commercial service across Norway. Tests for the first locomotive equipped with the new solution will begin in June this year. The on-board train control system contract was awarded by Bane Nor in 2018. The fleet is owned by 14 different railway vehicle owners.
The tests for the first locomotive equipped with the new solution will begin in June this year and serial train fittings are expected to start in 2021. The first trains are planned to start operation on Norwegian lines in 2022, according to the contract.
The ETCS Baseline 3 Release 2 certification was awarded by Belgorail, a railway certification and testing organisation.
Norway is implementing a national ERTMS programme to install a new signalling system and to equip a fleet of 550 vehicles.
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