Automated trains
London might still be wrestling with the idea of driver-free Tube operation, but in Vienna it is becoming reality.
Siemens displayed the X-Wagen, which will run on the Austrian capital’s fully automated (GOA4) line U5, although the trains do have a cab, meaning they can also operate in what the manufacturer describes as “semi-automated or manual mode” on other routes.
This year will bring the entry into service of the first of 34 six-car trains, with the remainder all being delivered by 2030.
As well as being fully automated, the X-Wagen design incorporates low-energy heating and air-conditioning, LED lighting, and a lightweight design focused on recycling. The Viennese trains will also use the new Passenger Information Plus (PI+) system displays, offering location-dependent passenger guidance - as well as air-free brakes (see separate entry).
Also on display was a vehicle for Hamburg’s ‘digital S-Bahn’ project, which had its premier run last autumn and is part of a project to roll out digitisation across Germany’s railways. While keeping an operator on board, the pilot scheme brings automated operation. Benefits include improved punctuality and energy savings of more than 30%.
The technology, Siemens CEO Roland Busch has previously said, “features open interfaces, [so] can immediately be used by operators worldwide for all types of trains”.