Siemens Mobility has been awarded a contract to upgrade Finland’s rail network with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 as part of the Finnish government’s Digirail Project.
This project will involve the installation of ETCS Level 2 and Hybrid Train Detection (HTD) on a 191-kilometre stretch of railway between Lielahti and Rauma-Pori. This initiative aims to increase capacity, improve punctuality and enhance safety on the network.
Siemens Mobility will implement its latest interlocking and radio block centre technology on the DS3 platform, with the upgraded train control system expected to be in commercial service by 2027. This will be Finland’s first implementation of ETCS and HTD.
“We are honoured to be chosen by Fintraffic Railway and the Digirail program as their prime partner for implementing the first ETCS line in Finland. With our DS3 technology, we will be implementing our best-in-technology solutions. Together, we are shaping the future of rail transportation. This upgrade promises increased capacity, improved punctuality, minimised disruptions, enhanced safety, and a greener, more efficient railway network. We are excited about this partnership and the enhanced rail connectivity it will bring to Finland.”
Finland’s Digirail Project aims to transform the country’s train control system by adopting ETCS for enhanced interoperability. It is led by the Ministry of Transport and Communication.
The comprehensive programme includes upgrading existing tracks and developing future sections of the railway in collaboration with suppliers.
“Fintraffic is driving transformation in the railway sector. The Digirail Project represents a crucial investment for maintaining service level, increasing capacity, and improving punctuality and safety. The contract with Siemens Mobility marks a significant step in technological change of Finnish railways. Fintraffic, along with all Digirailians and other partners, is eager to collaborate with the experts at Siemens Mobility to shape the future of railways.”
Siemens Mobility has also partnered with Finnish rolling stock owner company Pääkaupunkiseudun Junakalusto Oy to conduct initial testing of ETCS in Finland.
This collaboration equips two multiple-unit trainsets with Trainguard OBU and Automated Train Operation (ATO) over ETCS.
