Alstom begins equipping Stuttgart regional trains for automated operation
Alstom has started equipping regional trains in Stuttgart at its Hennigsdorf facility. The aim is to enable future automated train operations.
Alstom has begun equipping regional trains operating in the Stuttgart region at its facility in Hennigsdorf, Germany. The work involves installing European Train Control System (ETCS) technology and preparing the trains for highly automated train operation (ATO Grade 2).
The first train unit, delivered by Landesanstalt Schienenfahrzeuge Baden-Württemberg (SFBW), arrived in Hennigsdorf in April 2022. Alstom will equip a total of 118 regional trains with digital signaling technology as part of the "Digital Node Stuttgart" project, a key initiative within "Digital Rail Germany".
The project includes the retrofitting of ETCS Level 2 and 3 systems, incorporating train integrity monitoring (TIMS). The trains will also be equipped with hardware for Automatic Train Operation (ATO), intended to facilitate shorter journey times and increased train frequency in the future.
The modified trains are expected to commence operations in early 2025, coinciding with the launch of the initial phases of the "Digital Node Stuttgart". Full compliance with future European standards is scheduled for completion by mid-2027.
Alstom has previously initiated similar equipping processes for two DB Regio AG S-Bahn train models (423 and 430) serving Stuttgart's commuter network.