Freightliner goes in-house with onboard digital signalling
Freightliner in the UK has launched a partnership with Siemens Mobility to retrofit one of its Class 66 diesel locomotives with state-of-the-art European Train Control System (ETCS) equipment. The in-house fitment is a significant milestone in adopting next-generation digital signalling. ETCS is aimed at radically enhancing network reliability and capacity. This in-house retrofit is a first for the carrier.
In an industry first, Freightliner will complete the ETCS installation independently at its Leeds Midland Road Vehicle Maintenance Facility. Engineers at Freightliner are experienced in the subtle differences between core and variant vehicles. Freightliner aims to use that expertise to streamline the complex retrofitting process. This initiative is part of a larger plan to equip hundreds of freight locomotives with digital signalling technology.
Essential to upgrade train management
UK infrastructure agency Network Rail is already at work on a huge project to upgrade the signalling on the East Coast Main Line. The route, already one of the busiest in the UK, is growing and becoming more important for freight operations. To make the most of available capacity, it’s essential to upgrade train management from the traditional ‘block signalling to the ‘no signals’ operations made possible by adoptingĀ ETCS. The infrastructure side of the operation, underway by Network Rail, is designated the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
“Collaboration is at the heart of the process,” said Euan Rideout, ERTMS Lead Engineer at Freightliner. “We will be keen to share learnings throughout the fitment process with colleagues on the East Coast Digital Programme. This presents a great opportunity for collective learning and enhancing how we fit future locomotive classes.”
Digital signalling will transform rail transport
To ensure the project’s success, the fitment team will receive continuous support from Freightliner’s ERTMS Engineers and the Siemens Mobility team, who have collaborated on the design and installation processes. The chosen locomotive, 66591, has been designated Class 66V for the purpose of the project.
“I’m excited for this continued collaboration on the programme,” said Matt Kent, Director of Operations for Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility. “Our learnings to date, combined with Freightliner’s expertise, will support the smooth fitment of the Class 66V locomotive. Ultimately, this retrofit of digital signalling equipment will transform rail travel and transport, delivering wider societal and community benefits afforded by digital signalling.”
Freightliner is the UK’s largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, transporting containers from all major deep-sea ports to a national network of inland terminals. It is also a leading operator in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market. Siemens Mobility, a separately managed company of Siemens AG, has been involved in intelligent transport solutions for over 175 years.
