06.08.14
Network Rail awards on-board ETCS contract to Hitachi
Hitachi Rail Europe has signed a contract with Network Rail for the implementation of its European Train Control System (ETCS) technology on two Class 37 locomotives.
The project work will include the design, vehicle modification, ETCS installation, testing and commissioning of Hitachi’s ETCS for West Coast Railways, for operational use on the Cambrian Line European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) in Wales. The scheduled date for completion is August 2015.
This latest contract follows the successful ‘proof of concept’ of Hitachi ETCS on a Class 97 Locomotive, known as the Verification-Train 3 trial, which tested interoperability with a separate supplier’s groundside system currently in use on the line.
This is Hitachi’s first formal order received for ETCS, which recognises the development, testing and certification of the system over the last seven years to the European TSI and associated subsets.
The in-cab radio based signalling system will also be implemented on the concurrent Intercity Express Programme Class 800/801 rolling stock for Great Western and East Coast Main Lines.
A Network Rail spokesperson told RTM: “The contract was awarded to Hitachi following a competitive tendering process; this tender offered best overall value for money for the industry.
“The aim is to provide 2 X cl 37 locos fitted with a compliant ETCS on-board assembly with capability of operating on the Cambrian Lines unassisted.
“This is not a development project and we are not aiming for it to achieve anything other than the ability for West Coast Railway to continue operating on Cambrian independently of the piloting service.”
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