In a major step forward for digital rail technology, Govia Thameslink Railway, in partnership with Siemens Mobility, has successfully operated its first Class 717 Great Northern train using the latest version of the European Train Control System (ETCS).
On Monday 8 July, unit 717020 ran from Finsbury Park to Moorgate using ETCS Baseline 3, Release 2 (version 3.6.0), a key milestone in the government-funded East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
The upgraded ETCS software connects trains to trackside systems using GPRS instead of the older GSM-R technology. This allows for greater flexibility and capacity in high-traffic areas like the East Coast Mainline, where frequent services demand more responsive and efficient signalling.
The new system enhances safety, reduces reliance on traditional lineside signals, and supports the long-term goal of a digitally controlled railway.
All 25 Class 717 trains in the Great Northern fleet will be upgraded to the new ETCS baseline in the coming months. The same version will also be adopted by all train operators on the East Coast Mainline, ensuring consistency and interoperability across the network.
This rollout is a critical part of the UK’s broader rail modernisation strategy, aimed at improving reliability, reducing delays, and preparing the network for future growth.
Ben Lane, infrastructure lead and ECDP project director, Siemens Mobility, commented:
“The Northern City Line project continues to show how our digital signalling can transform rail travel and transport. With this updated ETCS software on our Siemens Mobility Class 717 trains, we will see more digital network capacity for train and freight operators over the busiest sections of the East Coast Main Line route.
“In partnership with Network Rail and GTR, we’re already seeing the benefits of ETCS on NCL with fewer disruptions, lower maintenance, and smoother, more reliable journeys for passengers.”
Image credit: Network Rail
