Digital in-cab signalling has been successfully tested at speed on a train from London North Eastern Railway’s Azuma fleet of trains.

The testing was carried out on a test track in Leicestershire and marked a step forward towards full implementation of the European Train Control System (ETCS), being delivered by the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).

In-cab signalling equipment in the train has had its software upgraded in preparation for introducing the technology on passenger services from next year.

The testing at Melton used the site’s ETCS capability to prove the upgraded equipment functioned correctly in operating conditions, including its integration with lineside and signalling centre components of ETCS.

Hitachi Rail, which built the Azuma train, collaborated with London North Eastern Railway, Network Rail, and Agility Trains to demonstrate that this ‘First in Class’ train paved the way for all Hitachi Rail’s intercity trains operating on the East Coast Main Line to use ETCS in operational service.

Although the successful demonstration marks a milestone for the East Coast Main Line, it is also significant for the wider network digital masterplan.

Further software development will now take place on the Azuma train before it is taken through the assurance process to gain regulatory approval.

During the next few months, it is expected to take part in ‘system of system’ testing on the East Coast Main Line, at the same time as the system is being installed across the Class 80x Hitachi fleets.

Ed Akers, Network Rail’s industry partnership director, ECDP, commented that the Azuma fleet is pivotal to the upcoming change in how the East Coast Main Line operates, and this marks significant progress for Network Rail’s transformational programme. It is also helping the wider digital mission by preparing for ETCS operation, a train type that operates as far and wide as Inverness and Penzance.

Away from the East Coast Main Line, DB Cargo is fitting its Class 66s with ETCS and preparing its depot at Toton in Nottinghamshire for ETCS installations.

“ETCS represents a radical step forward in digital in-cab signalling, which will unlock new levels of capacity and reliability. This successful upgrade and testing of the latest ETCS software and hardware is an important technical milestone as we progress towards digital signalling on intercity routes. Pioneering ETCS on intercity routes is only possible due to the incredible collaboration between Hitachi Rail, LNER, Network Rail and Agility Trains. It’s taken a few years to get to this important stage, which is testament to the strength of our partnerships and shared commitment to innovation.”

Angus Thom, senior director OS&M operations, Hitachi Rail