ETCS retrofit for Classes 43 and 180
EUROPEAN Train Control System (ETCS), compliant to the latest UNISIG baseline (B3R2), has been retrofitted to three of Porterbrook’s Class 43 power cars, marking a major step forward for the UK Digital Railway Programme.
The three vehicles are those used in Network Rail’s New Measurement Train, Nos. 43013, 43014 and 43062. Fitment of ETCS is a priority to enable continued data recording on the East Coast Main Line as digital signalling is rolled out. Following successful Level 2 testing at Network Rail’s Melton Rail Innovation & Development Centre (RIDC), the units will undergo full testing to allow them to reach Approval to Place Into Service by the end of the year.
Also recently tested at the RIDC was an Angel Trains-owned Class 180 Adelante multiple unit that has also been retrofitted with ETCS equipment
that is B3R2 compliant. The team believes the onboard system is the first to support Packet 44, which enables operation with GB specifics, such as miles per hour. The Adelante is expected to be commissioned into ETCS Level-NTC (National Train Control) later this year.