Bombardier boosts signalling operations in The Netherlands

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation is set to enable the first mixed European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2 and conventional signalling operation, on one of the busiest lines in Europe. The line between Amsterdam and Utrecht in The Netherlands is equipped with the BOMBARDIER INTERFLO 450 mixed signalling solution and has had permission for commercial operation since September.

The project is an important first implementation in mixed operation globally and for Bombardier. The 30.5 km, four-track line serves more than 500 international, intercity, local and freight trains each day. Under ERTMS, these trains will be able to run at increased speeds of up to 160km/h. The line will provide a freight route from the Amsterdam harbour to the Betuwe Line, which links Rotterdam and Germany. It has been prepared for the future increase of ERTMS traffic, while allowing for both Level 2 and conventionally equipped trains to use the same line in the interim.

Bombardier’s delivery of its proven INTERFLO 450 system follows the company’s successful implementation of conventional signalling as part of the same line being upgraded to a four-track line in 2007. Permission for commercial operation in mixed signalling was granted after successfully completed Safety Qualification Tests, during which an ERTMS test-train covered a distance of 16,000km.

Peter Cedervall, President, Rail Control Solutions, Bombardier Transportation said: “This upgrade demonstrates Bombardier’s technical leadership in implementing a mixed signalling ERTMS application. It is also an important improvement for this busy line, which will enhance travel and transport links in The Netherlands.”

Johan van den Bussche, Bombardier Transportation’s Chief Country Representative in Benelux said: “Bombardier has a strong presence in The Netherlands and this latest milestone adds to the reputation of our technology. We look forward to continuing to work with our customers on the planned upgrades of their rail networks and systems.”

With a strong presence in the development of ERTMS/ETCS technology, Bombardier’s INTERFLO ERTMS Level 1 and Level 2 solutions are in operation or being delivered across Europe and Asia on more than 2,500 vehicles, 15,000 km of track and in 16 countries. Implementation on the highest speed ERTMS Level 2-equipped lines in China was followed by delivery for the first Level 2-equipped train and the first regional implementation delivered in Sweden. The latter are a part of extensive framework agreements for ERTMS roll-out in Sweden and Norway. Bombardier ERTMS technology is also operating in Korea, Taiwan and Spain. As well as delivering the first ERTMS technology in Algeria and Poland, Bombardier recently started projects in Croatia and Hungary.