Scotland: ScotRail has successfully trialled using GSM-R, the international wireless communications standard for railways, as a tool to give passengers more detailed information.
Up until now ScotRail had used the digital communications system to allow train drivers and signallers to communicate with each other. Now, however, ScotRail is using GSM-R on its electric trains in Strathclyde to provide passenger information, giving customers more information during disruptions, for example.
ScotRail’s signalling control centre can use the technology to make announcements through the trains’ on-board PA system. Following a successful trial on the Glasgow North Electric Line, which lasted six months, ScotRail is now deploying this solution more broadly.
Anne Gray, ScotRail Customer Information Strategy Manager, said:Enhancing the experience of customers is vital, and the provision of accurate, real time information plays a huge part in that - the more that’s available, the better.
The rollout of GSM-R to our electric trains means customers can now get up to the second information directly from the people who’re working hard to get services back to normal when things go wrong.
GSM-R on ScotRail Trains
Specifically, ScotRail is now using GSM-R on its Class 334, Class 380, Class 318 and Class 385 (Lanark / Neilston / Cathcart services only) trains.
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