TransPennine Express (TPE) is upgrading its fleet of Class 185 trains with the European Train Control System (ETCS).

The system is a digital signalling technology that aims to improve reliability and safety.

Equipment will need to be installed and is being planned in advance. Once completed, the use of ETCS will be confirmed.

Current outdated signalling systems cause congestion and have capacity constraints. Introducing ETCS will help to improve these issues, with trains running closer together, without impacting safety, meaning that more trains can run at one time.

The system will replace the current system, providing live updates on braking distances and speeds directly to the train driver.

ETCS will replace traditional railway signals with real-time updates on train speeds and braking distances, delivered directly to the driver’s cab.

The resilient system should reduce maintenance issues and engineering work in the long run.

This system upgrade is part of TransPennine’s Route Upgrade (TRU), which is a multi-billion-pound, large-scale project to improve rail connections.

Earlier this year, the government provided an additional £415 million to help with the upgrades.

The funding will also support the ETCS installation, which will be carried out in collaboration with Eversholt, who own the Class 185s. The work will be carried out at Siemens Mobility’s Ardwick depot.

“The introduction of ETCS on our Class 185 fleet will represent a major step forward for rail travel.

“This technology will not only enhance safety and reliability but also support the broader Transpennine Route Upgrade.

“We’re proud to work alongside Eversholt Rail and Siemens Mobility to deliver a more modern, high-performing railway for our customers.”

Chris Nutton, TRU & Major Projects Director at TransPennine Express