Alstom to supply trackside signalling technology for Sydney’s suburban rail network

Sydney, Australia (Urban Transport News): Alstom has been awarded two contracts by Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) & Sydney Trains to design, deliver and provide long-term service support for European Train Control System Level 2 (ETCS) trackside signalling technology as part of the State’s More Trains, More Services - Digital Systems Program.

With more than 18,000 km’s of trackside technologies installed globally, Alstom’s AtlasTM and SmartlockTMtrackside signalling technologies will be delivered between Bondi Junction and Erskineville on the Sydney Trains network under a 20-year framework agreement starting in 2021, enabling the seamless future implementation of the technology throughout the broader network.

The Digital Systems Program will replace the existing signalling and train control technology on the Sydney Trains network with state-of-the-art, internationally proven, intelligent rail systems. Initially created to enable standardised cross-border rail traffic, the use of ETCS Level 2 is set to safely increase speed, reliability, and capacity.

The new digital technology will provide a complete system for optimal efficiency and safety while delivering several benefits. For example, the technology will enable Sydney Trains to meet future capacity demand and improve the passenger experience by delivering more reliable services, reduced journey times and enhanced real-time information.

“Alstom is delighted to continue to support TfNSW to deliver their vision of transforming the Sydney rail network. The Digital Systems Program will provide a step-change in operations for Sydney Trains and NSW Trains, and Alstom is committed to partnering with TfNSW to deliver a sustainable, innovative and value for money solution for the State” said Mark Coxon, Managing Director for Alstom in Australia and New Zealand.

The award of these contracts confirms Alstom’s leading positioning in the rail signalling market in Australia. Alstom is the only supplier to have delivered passenger CBTC (Communication Based Train Control) signalling technologies for metros in both Sydney and Melbourne, our ETCS level 1 technology currently operate on the NSW and QLD suburban rail networks, Freight & Mining signalling technologies have been deployed for FMG and BHP in Western Australia and our interlocking technologies have been successfully delivered in most Australian states.

It is expected that the project will be fully operational in 2024.