Transport for London (TfL) and Alstom, the train manufacturer, have announced a collaboration to bring a state-of-the-art driver advisory system to the Elizabeth line. This system, called GreenSpeed promises to make train journeys on the Elizabeth line more energy-efficient and smoother.
The Elizabeth line, which opened in 2022 has rapidly become a key artery connecting east and west London, and now serves over 4.3 million passengers weekly. With up to 24 trains per hour during peak times, optimising efficiency has become crucial.
The GreenSpeed technology tackles this challenge by providing real-time advice to train drivers on when to accelerate, cruise, and coast, based on trackside data and the train's position.
By doing this, it not only optimises energy consumption but also reduces wear and tear on the trains and in turn, improved reliability. The technology has been developed by technology company, Cubris which was purchased by Thales in 2018.
"We are pleased to welcome Elizabeth line to the growing GreenSpeed family," said Claus Vendelsø-Nielsen, Managing Director of Cubris. "This collaboration reinforces our commitment to sustainability by promoting energy-efficient driving, ultimately contributing to a better passenger experience."
The system will be installed across the entire fleet of 70 Class 345 Aventra trains built by Alstom in Derby.
Alstom signaling project manager, Ben Scott said: “We look forward to delivering this upgrade to TfL and expect that it will enhance what is already an efficient mode of travel.
“Alongside improved service resilience, GreenSpeed also helps us make energy savings, by advising drivers when best to accelerate, cruise and coast between stations to save on traction power. Every journey matters, and this work is part of our joint commitment to sustainability.”
The implementation of GreenSpeed is expected to begin later in 2024.
Photo Credit: iStock
