ECTS digital signalling trial successful
Class 717 Thameslink tests are positive step for East Coast programme.
A CLASS 717 electric multiple unit has completed faultless running trials between St Pancras and Blackfriars on the Thameslink route, using the digital in-cab Level 2 European Train Control System (ETCS).
Details of the tests, which took place on August 31 with Govia Thameslink Railway unit No. 717002, were announced in late September.
Rather than relying on lineside signals, ETCS uses radiobased technology to display signalling and movement authorities to the driver in the train cab. It facilitates continuous communication between track and train, giving instructions and responses in real-time.
Although the Class 717 fleet – which usually operates Great Northern services to and from Moorgate, and the core Thameslink route – are already fitted with ETCS, this was the first time these particular train and infrastructure specifications had been tested together on the rail network.
The train used an upgraded baseline (specifically 3.4.0 on board over 2.3.0d trackside) of the current Class 700 Thameslink unit ETCS.
The Northern City Line to Moorgate will begin transition to ETCS next year, with a
2023 target for the switch-off of conventional signalling on the route. The tests are an important phase in the proving of the track-to-train specification which will be used.
Migration of the route to
ETCS will also mark the first stage of the East Coast Digital Programme, which will see the system introduced on the East Coast Main Line between the capital and Stoke Tunnel, south of Grantham.
Last year, the Government announced £350 million of funding for the project, which should improve safety, resilience and flexibility on the ECML, as well as laying the foundations for the application of the ETCS across other parts of the network.