Hitachi Rail has reached two major milestones in the modernisation of Romania’s railway network, successfully commissioning advanced electronic signalling systems at Ciulnița and Fetești stations as part of a strategic upgrade programme for the National Railway Company CFR SA.
Located on the European TEN-T Corridor 22, also known as Pan-European Corridor IV, the two stations form a vital link on the route connecting Nürnberg, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest and Constanța. The corridor plays a crucial role in facilitating passenger and freight movements between Central and Eastern Europe.
The infrastructure modernisation programme has delivered significant enhancements across both stations, including rail infrastructure and superstructure rehabilitation, civil engineering works, power supply upgrades, overhead contact line improvements and the deployment of advanced telecommunications systems. These include video surveillance, passenger information displays and public announcement technology aimed at improving operational efficiency and the customer experience.
A key project milestone was achieved at Ciulnița in December 2025, followed by Fetești in June 2026, with the successful commissioning of the new ESTW/IXL L90 RO electronic interlocking system. Built on the Technology and Application System (TAS) platform and powered by the IPR7.0 software suite, the installation marks the first deployment of this next-generation signalling technology anywhere on Romania’s railway network.
The new platform introduces a range of digital capabilities designed to improve performance, reliability and maintainability. Advanced tools such as the Data Logger provide enhanced diagnostic and maintenance functionality, while the Cyber Security Observer strengthens the resilience of railway operations against evolving cyber threats.
In addition to improving system connectivity, the ESTW/IXL L90 RO platform enables faster deployment times and reduced energy consumption, helping infrastructure managers lower lifecycle costs while supporting sustainability objectives. Passengers are also expected to benefit from more accurate and timely travel information as a result of the upgraded technology.
The successful commissioning of the new signalling system represents a significant step forward for Romania’s railway sector. It marks the transition away from the long-serving SELMIS platform, which has underpinned rail operations across the country for more than two decades, to a more advanced digital architecture designed to support future operational requirements.
The project was delivered in accordance with European CENELEC standards, ensuring compliance with the highest levels of railway safety, availability and reliability.
The accomplishment further strengthens the long-standing partnership between Hitachi Rail and CFR SA as both organisations continue their efforts to create a more efficient, sustainable and interoperable railway network aligned with European transport objectives.
Claudiu Seicean, CEO of Hitachi Rail in Romania, said:
"At Hitachi Rail, we believe the future of rail transport relies on smart technologies and strong partnerships. We are proud to support the digital transformation of Romania’s railway infrastructure. This project reaffirms our commitment to a high-performing, digital, and interoperable railway system aligned with European standards.’’
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