Siemens Mobility has signed a major contract with Trivia Trens S.A. to modernise three of São Paulo’s commuter rail lines using Automatic Train Operation (ATO) over ETCS Level 2 – the most extensive deployment of this technology in Latin America.
The project, covering 140 kilometres of track and 46 stations across lines 11-Coral, 12-Sapphire, and 13-Jade, will deliver a fully digital signalling and control system designed to increase capacity, safety, and efficiency across one of the busiest rail networks in the region. It also represents the largest ETCS Level 2 installation in South America.
Comprehensive digital signalling solution
Under the contract, Siemens Mobility will design, supply, install, and commission a complete signalling system, including an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATS), modern interlocking systems, Radio Block Centre (RBC), and all associated trackside equipment.
More than 130 vehicles will be equipped with Siemens’ Trainguard ETCS on-board units — including 107 trains, six MRS locomotives, three TRIVIA locomotives, and 17 auxiliary vehicles. The agreement also covers a two-year warranty and the provision of spare parts.
“This landmark project demonstrates our commitment to bringing cutting-edge rail technology to Latin America,” said Marc Ludwig, CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility. “By implementing ATO over ETCS Level 2 in São Paulo’s busy metropolitan transportation network, we’re setting new standards for automated urban rail transportation in the region and up to 30% increased network capacity. Together with our client, we implement the largest ETCS Level 2 project in South America.”
Advancing automation and efficiency
ATO over ETCS combines two of the most advanced signalling technologies to maximise operational efficiency and safety. While ETCS Level 2 ensures continuous supervision and control of train movements via digital radio communication, the ATO system automates key driving functions, such as acceleration, braking, and precise station stops, achieving Grade of Automation (GoA) Level 2.
This integration allows São Paulo’s commuter lines to operate with optimised headways, smoother journeys, and increased service frequency, while maintaining strict safety standards.
Future-proof mobility
The new system’s energy-efficient driving algorithms are expected to cut both energy consumption and peak power demand, while its reduced reliance on trackside equipment will simplify maintenance and lower lifecycle costs. The modular architecture also enables future system upgrades as São Paulo continues to expand its urban transport infrastructure.
By introducing ATO over ETCS Level 2, Siemens Mobility and Trivia Trens are laying the foundation for a more reliable, sustainable, and digitally integrated rail network in Brazil’s largest city — one capable of supporting growing passenger demand across Latin America’s most dynamic metropolitan area.
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