The Hitachi Rail-led consortium, comprising EQUANS and SNIC, has successfully commissioned the first ARGOS digital interlocking system on the SNCF Réseau network in France. The system, launched at the pilot site in Chasse-sur-Rhône, marks a significant milestone in the rollout of SNCF Réseau’s nationwide signalling modernisation programme.
The achievement follows nearly five years of research and development, beginning in September 2020 when the consortium was awarded the contract under SNCF Réseau’s ARGOS programme. The system developed by Hitachi Rail represents a major advancement in digital signalling technology, offering enhanced efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Digital interlocking systems manage train movements by ensuring trains only enter clear track sections. Compared to traditional technologies, digital systems reduce the need for physical infrastructure, support remote operation, and improve operational reliability.
Launched in 2018, the ARGOS programme aims to modernise and digitalise France’s national interlocking infrastructure. Hitachi Rail’s system, which features decentralised control architecture, enables real-time centralised data management via field controllers. This approach lowers total life cycle costs and facilitates smoother rail operations.
The system’s decentralised architecture places object controllers near trackside equipment, significantly reducing the need for cabling, civil works, and relay connections. The design also supports modular deployment, standardisation of equipment, and lower stock and obsolescence costs. Overall, the solution is expected to deliver a 15% reduction in total ownership costs and a 30% decrease in deployment time.
“Our collaboration with SNCF Réseau has enabled us to pioneer a new generation of Digital Interlocking. This step further strengthens our long-standing and trusted partnership with SNCF Réseau, with which we are supporting the digital transformation of the SNCF Réseau network,” Christophe Jeanney, GTS Country Director of Hitachi Rail in France, said.
“INEO SCLE FERROVIAIRE, a company of Equans Transport Systems, has developed a long partnership with Hitachi Rail. Playing a key role in the deployment of the interlocking systems, we are proud to have successfully met this challenge alongside our partners for the commissioning of the first ARGOS stations,” Pascal Gessat, President of Equans France, added.
“SNIC is proud to support the successful commissioning of the first ARGOS Digital Interlocking System, marking a new milestone in our long-standing partnership with Hitachi Rail and our enduring commitment to SNCF Réseau,” Xavier Payet, General Director of SNIC SIGNALISATION, said.
The commissioning marks a key step forward in SNCF Réseau’s long-term goal to enhance the safety, performance, and sustainability of rail operations across France through advanced digital technology.
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