Category: Technology

‘World first’ digitally signalled steam loco begins testing

This week has seen the start of testing at speed for the world’s first operational steam locomotive to be fitted with ETCS (European Train Control System) technology. Tornado – a modern steam locomotive built in 2008 – is the first loco in the charter and heritage pathfinder project for the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP). […]

Telent Secures First CP7 Telecoms-Only Framework to Enhance Rail Reliability in Western and Wales

As part of Network Rail’s five-year planning and funding cycle, Control Period 7 (CP7), Telent has been appointed to deliver a telecoms renewal programme throughout the Wales and Western Region, which spans London to Penzance, Bristol, the Cotswolds and the whole of Wales. This first telecoms-only framework to be awarded in CP7, will see Telent, […]

Groundbreaking thermal modelling slashes railway heating costs

Significant cost and carbon reductions will be delivered through an industry-leading initiative joint developed by Network Rail, AtkinsRéalis, Balfour Beatty and TSO, as the Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA). Planned track renewals will expand the number of “points heating systems” at many critical UK rail routes to prevent the build-up of snow and ice – […]

Special test event provides valuable insight for Great Western Railway’s fast-charge battery trial

A special test event saw 250 volunteers board Great Western Railway’s battery train to help provide valuable insight for its industry-leading trial. The ‘High Passenger Load’ operation tested energy consumption and will form part of findings to be fed back to the Department for Transport (DfT). GWR launched its innovative fast-charge battery trial in March […]