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  • European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS)

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    In-cab signalling system. How it works - computer generated flythrough

  • On Schedule

    This tried and tested system will replace traditional railway signals with a computer display inside every train cab, reducing the costs of maintaining the railway, improving performance and enhancing safety.

    It will offer a host of benefits to the railway and the application of its cab signalling component, the European Train Control System, ETCS, will spell the end for traditional signalling.

  • How does it work?

    Instead of lineside signals, a computer in the driver's cab controls the speed and movement of the train, whilst taking account of other trains on the railway.

    Taking control

    By bringing the control system inside each individual train, ERTMS allows specific customised control. This allows the drivers to always run at the optimum safe speed helping more trains run faster and recover from delays quicker.
     

    More trains, better services

    Installing ERTMS across the country as signalling becomes life-expired will save an estimated 40 per cent over conventional systems. Each train will run at an appropriate safe speed, allowing more trains onto the tracks. ERTMS will improve train performance and reduce energy consumption.

    Testing

    We're carrying out testing on part of the Hertford Loop, north of London, using a converted former passenger train. This will trial four suppliers’ technology and will help us decide which contractor is best suited to work with us installing ERTMS on the Great Western and East Coast Main Lines in Control Period 5 (2014-19).
     

    Bespoke system

    Although still operating under the umbrella term of ERTMS, we're creating our own traffic management system to optimise performance.
     

  • Timeline

    ERTMS - Timeline 

    1. 2013 - Testing begins at Hertford National Integration Facility test track
    2. 2015 - Operational ETCS begins on Hertford Loop
    3. 2016-2019 - Roll-out on Great Western main line from Paddington to Taunton
    4. 2019-2020 - Roll-out on East Coast main line from King’s Cross to Doncaster
    5. 2021-2022 - Roll-out on Midland Main Line from London St Pancras to Leicester
    6. 2021-2024 - Roll-out reaches Scotland

  • Image gallery

    Diagram of how the onboard computer communicates wirelessly with control centres
     

    How the onboard computer communicates wirelessly with control centres

    Diagram of a train passing a railway communications system mast
     

    A train passing a railway communications system mast

    A driving cab fitted with ERTMS - the screen of which is fitted in the centre
     

    A driving cab fitted with ERTMS - the screen of which is fitted in the centre

    A signaller training on the new controls for the Hertford National Integration Facility at Kings Cross signalbox
     

    A signaller training on the new controls for the Hertford National Integration Facility at King's Cross signalbox

     
    The driver of a Class 158 on the Cambrian with the ERTMS screen - also called a Driver Machine Interface - showing target speed
     

    The driver of a Class 158 on the Cambrian with the ERTMS screen - also called a Driver Machine Interface - showing target speed

    The ERTMS test train under development at Asltom's Wembley facility
     

    The ERTMS test train under development at Asltom's Wembley facility