Autonomous freight trains are successfully running the first phase of their tests on the critical Betuwe Line between the Port of Rotterdam and the German border. This large-scale initiative aims to test automated remote-controlled systems (ATO) that will modernise freight trains in Europe and create an efficiency revolution in rail transport.
GoA 2 Level Confirmed on Betuwe Line: ProRail and DB Cargo Cooperation
Infrastructure manager ProRail, German freight operator DB Cargo and a number of industrial/research partners are collaborating to conduct the tests. The project utilises a Vectron electric locomotive manufactured by Siemens Mobility.
In the first phase, engineers confirmed that the ATO system based on the ETCS signalling solution operates at GoA 2 automation level. This level allows automatic train operation under the supervision of the train operator. The next step will be the implementation of the GoA 4 level and the remote train operation (RTO) solution, where the train will be operated automatically without a driver by the train operating company.
0 Capacity Increase Target: Autonomous Systems Preparing for Certification
The adoption of the ATO system is expected to bring significant benefits to the railway network:
- Capacity Increase: Up to -30 increase in line capacity.
- Energy Saving: Up to -15 reduction in traction energy.
- Cost Reduction: Reduction in operating costs up to .
The Betuwe Line was chosen because it is not used by passenger trains, has no level crossings and is already equipped with ETCS, providing a safe test environment. The results from these tests will help to develop European standards and certification schemes for ATO systems. This will guide the use of autonomous train technology on other important future routes, such as the Rhine-Alpine corridor, which is part of the TEN-T network.
