Siemens Mobility, ÖBB kickstart digital transformation of Austrian rail network

Siemens Mobility and ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) have announced a landmark collaboration aimed at digitizing Austria‘s entire rail network. In a massive upgrade, the first section featuring the modern digital European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 has been successfully commissioned between Linz and Vöcklabruck. This cutting-edge technology aims to enhance the route’s capacity and efficiency, positioning Austrian rail network as one of the most advanced in the world.

This initiative is a significant step in ÖBB’s goal to double the capacity of Austria’s rail system by 2040 to manage a surge in passenger numbers. With real-time control over train speed, direction, and distance, ETCS Level 2 is set to revolutionize public transport in Austria, making it more reliable, punctual, and safe.

The project stems from a long-term framework agreement between Siemens Mobility and ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG. The agreement outlines the nationwide roll-out of ETCS Level 2 and includes the establishment of 21 ETCS Radio Block Centers (RBCs) by 2038. These centers will provide fail-safe coverage and maintenance services for Austria’s high-level rail network.

Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Johann Pluy, CEO of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, emphasized the importance of digital initiatives like ETCS Level 2 in achieving Austria’s climate goals. Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, echoed the sentiment and expressed pride in this collaborative effort that marks a milestone in ÖBB’s ongoing expansion of ETCS coverage.

Siemens Mobility, ÖBB launch digital transformation of Austrian rail network. Photo courtesy of Siemens.

ETCS Level 2 works through a continuous bidirectional flow of data, significantly increasing line throughput and providing the basis for autonomous driving at optimum speed. This advancement in Austrian rail network technology is not only an environmental boon but also allows for the efficient transport of more passengers and freight.

A staggering €900 million has been earmarked in the framework agreement for ETCS and train controls, with ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG alone investing €200 million by 2026. The standardization of ETCS across Europe is set to simplify cross-border travel and make international journeys more comfortable and shorter.

One key innovation is the integration of Siemens Mobility’s DS3 platform, which has been used successfully since November 2020 in a pilot project for the interlocking at the Achau railway station in Lower Austria. DS3 stands for “Distributed Smart Safe System,” and it’s expected to offer higher cost-effectiveness through lower investment and maintenance costs.

With this digital transformation, Siemens Mobility and ÖBB are not only advancing Austrian rail technology but are also setting a global standard. The partnership is a massive leap towards the future of sustainable and efficient public transport, reinforcing Austria’s commitment to modernizing its rail network for the challenges ahead.

To summarize thigs, Siemens Mobility and ÖBB are steering Austria towards a digital future, bolstering its rail network with state-of-the-art ETCS Level 2 technology. This move is aimed at boosting route capacity, promoting safety, and revolutionizing the entire public transport system in the country.