Internet Explorer, Chrome Browser, Firefox Browser, Safari Browser
Press Release20 December 2021Siemens Mobility GmbHMunich
Siemens Mobility to retrofit the Belgian Railways train fleet with ETCS Level 2 technology
“We are excited to once again partner with the Belgian Railways to help modernize their rail operations. Our sophisticated and field proven ETCS products and applications will improve safety and increase capacity,” said Andre Rodenbeck, CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility. “Furthermore, this project is another important step in transforming the European railway towards a harmonized and interoperable system that safely paves the way for cross border rail transportation.”
The retrofitting of the fleet will be carried out through a comprehensive approach that includes the design of a vehicle-specific system integration concept. Where feasible, essential parts of the existing ETCS onboard unit equipment will be maintained. Siemens Mobility has already equipped the Desiro trains in the fleet with a previous version of the Trainguard ETCS Level 1 solution. This approach will also enable the upgrade of the Alstom based ETCS on-board solutions that were equipped on the I11 and M6-style steering cars supplied by Bombardier. Siemens Mobility will initially retrofit and re-authorize a prototype of each vehicle type.
By investing in the ETCS Level 2 upgrade, the Belgian Railways will meet the latest European standards baseline V3.6.0 for rail safety. The new system will also simplify future upgrades to the next ETCS versions according to TSI standards (Technical Specifications for Interoperability), which provides the basis for additional functionalities like Automatic Train Operation (ATO).
With its decision to opt for ETCS, Europe has paved the way for futureproof, cross-border rail traffic. Promoted by political leaders and driven by railway operators and leading providers such as Siemens, a network of ETCS-equipped lines is being created within Europe and beyond. In parallel to new construction projects, many railway companies are refitting their railway vehicles and fleets with ETCS onboard solutions. As one of the ETCS pioneers, Siemens Mobility has already implemented retrofit projects in several countries, including Switzerland, Great Britain, and Spain.
Siemens Mobility has been a leading rail technology provider in Belgium for many years. This includes several rail infrastructure projects in signalling, electrification, and solutions to digitalize rail. Siemens Mobility has also previously partnered with the Belgian Railways to deliver new trains and locomotives, provide route guidance and signalling for workshops as well as solutions to facilitate the passenger journey.
Siemens Mobility is a separately managed company of Siemens AG. As a leader in transport solutions for more than 160 years, Siemens Mobility is constantly innovating its portfolio in its core areas of rolling stock, rail automation and electrification, turnkey systems as well as related services. With digitalization, Siemens Mobility is enabling mobility operators worldwide to make infrastructure intelligent, increase value sustainably over the entire lifecycle, enhance passenger experience and guarantee availability. In fiscal year 2021, which ended on September 30, 2021, Siemens Mobility posted revenue of €9.2 billion and had around 39,500 employees worldwide. Further information is available at:
www.siemens.com/mobility.