EUROTUNNEL has announced the launch of the first phase of a programme to install ERTMS in the Channel Tunnel, with Mermec subsidiary Compagnie des Signaux (CSEE) to supply onboard equipment for the 57 Brush electric locomotives that haul shuttle trains carrying cars, coaches and lorries between Folkestone in Britain and Coquelles in France.
By equipping the Channel Tunnel with ERTMS, Eurotunnel says it is preparing for the future of its operations by improving infrastructure performance and enhancing safety. Installing the European standard system and its signalling component ETCS will also improve interoperability and improve accessibility for the latest generation of trains, according to Eurotunnel.
CSEE will supply dual-standard onboard equipment compatible with ETCS as well as the legacy French TVM 430 cab signalling system, in service in the Channel Tunnel since it opened to traffic in 1994. The company says that its proven dual-standard solution is specifically designed to facilitate a smooth transition in line with the overall system migration schedule, helping to minimise locomotive downtime.
Installing onboard equipment will be followed by work to adapt lineside equipment, enabling communication between the two signalling systems.
"We are taking an essential step in the modernisation of our infrastructure and reinforcing our commitment to ever safer, more efficient and interoperable rail operations,” says Eurotunnel CEO, Didier Cazelles.
