Alcatel-Lucent and Groupe Eurotunnel S.A pave the way for 3G mobile data services in the Eurotunnel

Alcatel-Lucent and Groupe Eurotunnel S.A. pave the way for 3G mobile data services, onboard information and uninterrupted voice calls in the Eurotunnel

Available in time for the 2012 Olympic games in London, passengers will be able to access the Internet and travel and tourist information services

• Alcatel-Lucent to work with Groupe Eurotunnel S.A. to make it possible for travelers to access GSM and 3G mobile broadband services in the Eurotunnel with the deployment of a GSM-Public (GSM-P) telephone system. The system will make the following services possible:
  * Uninterrupted voice calls and access to high-speed data services such as video calls and gaming for travelers within the Eurotunnel using a mobile operator’s network
  * The introduction of onboard internet services using information systems deployed by train operators, to keep passengers informed and entertained and improve the overall journey experience
• Delivery of an innovative GSM-P system protecting against harsh environmental conditions such as salt water and mist together with remote monitoring and diagnosis will ensure smooth service for passengers
• New services to be made available to passengers in time for the 2012 Olympic Games in London

Alcatel-Lucent is working with Groupe Eurotunnel S.A. to make it possible for travelers to make uninterrupted voice calls and access high-speed 3G mobile broadband data services such as video, gaming and the Internet within the Eurotunnel.

Using a GSM-Public (GSM-P) telephone system, business passengers, freight companies and tourists, will be able to use their smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices to access Internet-based services over a mobile operator’s network. The solution also enables train operators to deploy onboard information and entertainment services for passengers while in the undersea tunnel.

Better communications and more information will enhance operations and the journey itself for users of the Eurotunnel. The new GSM-P services will be enabled in time for the 2012 Olympics, paving the way for passenger systems that can provide details about onboard services and train arrival times as well as a reservations system. Customers will also be able to access information about their destination, such as public transport links for onward journeys and points of interest.

The €14 million project includes Alcatel-Lucent’s innovative in-tunnel coverage solution which uses next generation radiating cables which protect against the harsh environmental conditions in the tunnel, including mist and salt water, to ensure no breaks to service. Alcatel-Lucent will provide remote monitoring and diagnosis tools to allow any issues to be fixed quickly and easily to ensure there is minimal disruption to customer services. Alcatel-Lucent will also provide operations and maintenance support under a four-year warranty.

The communications system can be easily upgraded to support 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) services in future, which will allow even faster access to more services.

This announcement follows Alcatel-Lucent’s selection to provide ground-to-train communications in the Eurotunnel using a Global System for Mobile Communications for Railway (GSM-R) radio communications system to improve safety and communications efficiency for workers in the tunnel.

“The new contract clearly demonstrates the close relationship we have with Eurotunnel and that we have truly become their trusted partner! Alcatel-Lucent has deep rooted expertise in providing innovative communications solutions that enhance operations and transform the railway experience for customers and passengers alike,” said Pascal Homsy, Alcatel-Lucent France CEO.

About the Channel Tunnel

The Channel Tunnel (Le tunnel sous la Manche), is the longest (50.5 kilometers/31.4 miles) undersea tunnel in the world. Operated by Eurotunnel, the tunnel is linking Folkestone, Kent in England with Coquelles, near Calais in France. This unique land crossing has become a vital link between the continent and the United Kingdom. In 1996, the American Society of Civil Engineers identified the tunnel as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

About Eurotunnel

Until 2086, Eurotunnel (Euronext Paris: GET and London Stock Exchange: GETS) manages the infrastructure of the Channel Tunnel and operates accompanied truck shuttle and passenger shuttle (car and coach) services between Folkestone, UK and Calais, France. Eurotunnel holds the concession to operate the Channel Tunnel, the fastest, most reliable, easiest and most environmentally friendly way to cross the Channel. In nearly 18 years, Eurotunnel has carried 284 million people and 57 million vehicles through the Tunnel, the fastest, most frequent and most environmentally-friendly transport system across the Channel.

Eurotunnel runs a rail freight business through its subsidiary Europorte, which offers a wide range of integrated rail freight services.

For more information, visit Eurotunnel on the internet: http://eurotunnel.com