Siemens Mobility has conducted the Nordic’s first-ever automated train operation on an ETCS-equipped mainline.

A demonstration was recently held on the 19-kilometre-long route between Juurikorpi and Hamina in Finland, showcasing the integration of Automatic Train Operation with the European Train Control System Level 2.

The test saw the first use of an automated train in the Nordic region

© Siemens Mobility

Utilising a modernised unit owned by Pääkaupunkiseudun Junakalusto Oy (JKOY) and operated by VR-Yhtymä Oyj (VR); Siemens Mobility ran a series of semi-automatic GoA2 test runs that aims to underscore the stability, repeatability and potential innovation of the system when used in real-world, mainline conditions.

Marc Ludwig, CEO Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, said:

Introducing ATO over ETCS to Finland – and for the first time to the Nordic countries – is a major milestone in modernising the railway system.

This demonstration marks a significant step toward more efficient and sustainable rail transport in Finland. We are proud to drive this transformation alongside the Digirail programme. With our technology, our customers can increase capacity by 30%, significantly improve punctuality, and save over 30% energy.

These test runs saw Siemens Mobility showcase train performance of an automated stop from 100 km/h with a precision of between 30cm and 80cm, whilst also demonstrating smooth acceleration and controlled breaking under ATO supervision. The test also aimed to highlight the interaction between the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 and onboard automation.

In 2024, Siemens Mobility acquired a set of two contracts to support Finland’s Digirail initiative, which seeks to modernise the country’s railway infrastructure as a while. As part of ongoing efforts; Siemens is equipping two trains with onboard unit technology, enabling potential communication between both trains and rail infrastructure. This train control system will seek to increase network capacity, enhance safety and reduce potential operational disruption.

Siemens Mobility has also been tasked with the modernisation of the first commercial section (EKA) of the Tampere–Pori/Rauma line using Signaling X, a cloud-ready, virtualized platform that leverages commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware, which is expected to be completed by 2029.

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