Alstom introduces Atlas ERTMS Level 2 signalling system in Spain
The Atlas European Railways Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2 train control system from French rail transport company Alstom has begun commercial service on the Valladolid-León high-speed line in the north of Spain.
The scalable solution can be used for all types of traffic and operational needs, including passengers and freight, high-speed or suburban.
Atlas ERTMS Level 2 has been brought into service on the Valladolid-León line following reliability proving tests by Spanish state-owned railway infrastructure manager ADIF and approval by the Spanish Railway Safety Agency (AESF).
In 2014, a consortium comprising Alstom, Bombardier and Indra secured a contract from ADIF to upgrade the Valladolid-León section with ERTMS Level 2 technology. The contract also includes maintenance of the system for 20 years.
Atlas ERTMS Level 2, a digital signalling solution, allows trains to run at higher speeds without physical lineside signals.
The introduction of the new technology is expected to increase safety and availability on the Valladolid-León line.
The system will increase train speed, with maximum speed increasing from 200km/h to 300km/h, resulting in shorter journey times for passengers.
Alstom managing director in Spain Antonio Moreno said: “We are immensely proud of this entry into service. This is the second ERTMS Level 2 signalling system commissioned in Spain after the one also installed by Alstom on the new Albacete-Alicante high-speed line, where Alstom was also the consortium leader.
“This demonstrates Alstom’s technical expertise and leadership in the field.”
The ADIF contract includes design, procurement, installation and commissioning, as well as 20 years of maintenance of the signalling, fixed telecommunication and Automatic Train Protection systems, centralised traffic control, security equipment, mobile GSM-R communications equipment and infrastructure for trains and mobile phone operators.
Alstom has been implementing ERTMS Level 2 digital signalling solutions globally for the past 15 years.
railway-technology.com
