Alstom has reached a major milestone in Norway’s digital railway modernization program with the delivery of its 100th ERTMS-equipped train. The project is part of one of the most ambitious railway signaling programs in Europe, which ultimately aims to equip more than 350 rail vehicles.
The event marking this milestone took place at Alstom’s depot in Grorud, in the Oslo metropolitan area, in the presence of the main players involved in the implementation of the national ERTMS program.
A key step in the digitization of the rail network
The ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System) is the central pillar of Norway’s signaling modernization strategy, designed to increase network capacity, punctuality, and long-term interoperability, while reducing maintenance costs by reducing ground-based equipment.
“Surpassing the 100-train milestone shows how far this program has come. ERTMS will help increase capacity, improve punctuality, and reduce costs by eliminating a significant portion of the equipment on the infrastructure,” said Jörg Nikutta, Alstom’s general manager for Denmark and Norway.
Modernization carried out locally in Norway
The modernization work is being carried out entirely in Norway at Alstom’s facilities in Grorud, near Oslo, and Marienborg, near Trondheim. This is where both the hardware and software components necessary for the operation of the new control and signaling systems on board the trains are installed and tested.
The program is being implemented in close collaboration with key players in the Norwegian railway sector, including Bane NOR, Norske Tog, Vy, SJ Norge, as well as freight rail operators.
Technology adapted to harsh climatic conditions
The ERTMS program in Norway covers all passenger trains, locomotives, and infrastructure maintenance vehicles, which are equipped with a new-generation position measurement system based on satellite positioning. The solution has been specially designed to operate reliably in the harsh climatic conditions specific to Norway.
Two fleets have already been fully upgraded: heavy infrastructure maintenance vehicles and rescue and emergency locomotives, both owned and operated by Bane NOR.
Currently, the delivery rate is 3–4 modernized passenger trains per month, with these vehicles being essential for both passenger and freight transport during the transition to digital signaling.
Towards a fully digitalized railway
On a technical level, Alstom uses the Onvia Cab platform, a modern and interoperable on-board signaling solution compatible with both new trains and existing rolling stock.
The company emphasizes that the experience gained in over 300 digital signaling projects, implemented in more than 40 countries, supports the implementation of the Norwegian program.
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