French railway giant SNCF Réseau is preparing to launch a new era in the inspection of high-speed rail lines. The company has unveiled its MARS LGV project, an unmanned train designed to increase efficiency, reduce maintenance costs and maximize safety. This innovative project aims to offer significant advantages over current methods used in the inspection of railway lines.
Risks in Current Audit Methods and Solution of MARS LGV
Currently, rail diagnostics on high-speed rail lines in France are carried out by commercial TGV passenger trains. However, this approach is both financially costly and has the potential to cause operational disruptions. SNCF Réseau is developing a state-of-the-art solution to overcome these problems: MARS LGV. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, advanced radar sensors and precise LIDAR technology, this autonomous train can detect potential faults and obstacles on the rails in real time. The valuable data collected is immediately transmitted to the control centre, enabling fast and effective interventions.
MARS LGV's Development Schedule and Partners
The development process of the MARS LGV project has been meticulously planned. The first prototype is expected to be completed in 2026 and delivered in 2027. Full-scale field tests are expected to be carried out between 2028 and 2029. Following all these successful stages, the operational rollout of MARS LGV is set for 2030. This ambitious project is being implemented in collaboration with a strong consortium led by SNCF’s DTIPG division. The joint effort of leading companies in the sector, including Forsee Power, Compagnie des Signaux, IRT Railenium, Socofer France and Spirops, is focused on delivering groundbreaking technology for the European rail network.
Global Trend: Integration of Diagnostic Technologies into Operational Trains
The MARS LGV project is also a reflection of a broader global trend in the railway sector. In Japan, railway operator JR Central’s plan to retire its traditional Dr Yellow diagnostic train thanks to the integrated on-board monitoring systems in its N700S passenger fleet is a concrete example of this transformation. Integrating diagnostic technologies directly into operational trains both provides cost-effectiveness and makes inspection processes more efficient. In this context, the implementation of the MARS LGV is an important part of the global movement towards digitalization and automation in the railway sector. This innovative approach represents a significant investment in the future, supporting the safety and sustainable development of transport infrastructure.
