Eurotunnel has taken a significant step toward the next generation of cross‑Channel rail operations with the launch of the first phase of its new railway signalling system rollout. As concessionaire of the Channel Tunnel and operator of LeShuttle services for both passenger and freight traffic between Folkestone and Coquelles, the company is moving forward with a modernisation programme designed to future‑proof the infrastructure and enhance interoperability with new rolling stock.
A central part of this strategy is the adoption of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), which will underpin future performance improvements and reinforce safety across operations. By integrating ERTMS, Eurotunnel aims to ensure long‑term compatibility with the latest train technologies while streamlining the exchange of real‑time data between train and track.
Upgrading the LeShuttle Locomotive Fleet
The project’s initial phase focuses on the 57 Brush locomotives used on LeShuttle services. These locomotives will be fitted with an on‑board ERTMS‑compliant signalling and control system, incorporating the European Train Control System (ETCS). This replaces the legacy TVM system and allows for continuous communication between the train and the fixed infrastructure.
Compagnie des Signaux – CSEE, part of the MERMEC Group, has been selected as the supplier of the new technology, providing a standardised dual‑system solution to support a seamless transition.
"With this partnership, we are taking an essential step in the modernisation of our infrastructure and reinforcing our commitment to ever safer, more efficient and interoperable rail operations. This project forms part of Eurotunnel's mission to connect Europe by harnessing the best technologies to optimise the accessibility of our infrastructure," said Didier Cazelles, Chief Executive Officer of Eurotunnel
A Dual‑Standard Solution for a Smooth Migration
The selected system is designed to operate both ERTMS and TVM in parallel, offering a phased migration approach that limits disruption to operations and reduces locomotive downtime. Eurotunnel and CSEE say the technology has been proven in other international applications and has been engineered specifically to maintain reliability throughout the transition period.
“We are proud to continue more than 30 years of successful collaboration with Eurotunnel”.
“This new signalling modernisation project illustrates renewed confidence in our expertise and our ability to support Eurotunnel in its technical and operational challenges.”
“Our dual-standard ERTMS/TVM solution has been designed to guarantee safety, performance, and availability, while facilitating the transition to European standards. Compagnie des Signaux also relies on the recognised expertise of the MERMEC group in integrating signalling systems on fleets of locomotives in operation.”
— Gilles Pascault, President of Compagnie des Signaux
Safety, Quality and Long‑Term Sustainability
The dual‑standard system has already been adopted by operators worldwide and is recognised for its robustness and long‑term viability. Built on a hardware and software platform engineered to ensure high availability and the strongest safety integrity levels, the technology aligns with Eurotunnel’s broader goals on sustainability and operational resilience.
This first stage focuses exclusively on the locomotive fleet. A second phase will follow, covering the necessary upgrades to the trackside infrastructure to enable full interoperability between both signalling systems.
Image credit: iStock
