Alstom provides advanced technology to support Adif’s trials for implementing ERTMS on low density lines

Alstom’s innovative signalling technology is now powering Adif’s just-started tests of a new ERTMS application, specifically designed for secondary railway lines with low traffic density. The trials have begun this November on the metre-gauge section between La Asunción Universidad (León) and Guardo, part of the León–Bilbao line.

Among the main innovations of the project is the use of satellite positioning and public telecommunications networks in ERTMS Level 2. The project also includes ERTMS Level 1 trials which, although they do not involve the incorporation of new technologies as in Level 2, will test new operational scenarios such as level crossing management.

System testing will be completed in the first half of 2026. Initial trials have started with tests to verify the correct functioning of odometry measurement (distance travelled) by the ERTMS equipment installed on the train. In 2026, Level 1 ERTMS tests will be carried out first, followed by Level 2 tests.

“Alstom is supporting Adif’s efforts to modernise Spain’s rail network by providing advanced technology to implement the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) on secondary lines. This initiative underscores Alstom’s commitment to innovation and safety in rail transport, contributing to greater interoperability and efficiency across the network. We are proud to collaborate with Adif on this important project, which represents a significant step forward in enhancing the reliability and sustainability of rail operations in Spain,” said Gustavo Mateos, Managing Director of the Signalling, Infrastructure and Railway Safety Unit at Alstom Spain and Portugal

Project Awarded in 2023

In April 2023, Adif awarded Alstom the contract to develop an innovation project aimed at deploying a new application of the ERTMS system, specifically designed for secondary railway lines. The contract includes installation and testing on a pilot line of the Railway Network (on the La Asunción Universidad–Guardo section, which forms part of the León–Aranguren metre-gauge line).

The objective of this R&D&I project, led by Alstom’s Railway Safety and Signalling Technology Centre in Madrid, is to develop a new application of the ERTMS standard for low density local and regional lines by introducing satellite technology -among others- and public telecommunications networks. The initiative proposes using novel train positioning systems (such as sensors hybridisation, including satellite sensors) or public communication networks instead of GSM-R networks.

Advantages of ERTMS

The European Traffic Management System is the most advanced train command and control system adopted by the European Union for signalling and communications between the track and onboard equipment. The development and dissemination of this European system for rail traffic management has contributed in recent decades to safe and interoperable railway operation, with a large deployment on international lines. However, its adoption out of the mainline has been more limited due to its high cost and difficulty ensuring compatibility with the installed equipment.

The new ERTMS Level 2 application to be tested on the La Asunción Universidad–Guardo section is designed with significantly reduced trackside equipment while maintaining the same safety standards as conventional ERTMS installations.

Moreover, it will be an interoperable and consistent solution with the current system in operation. This means secondary railway lines will benefit from the advantages and functionalities of the European standard: ERTMS significantly improves service quality, reliability, and efficiency. It also increases network capacity by reducing headways between trains and lowering operating costs.

Leader in Signalling

This innovation project adds to the cutting-edge signalling initiatives that Alstom has been delivering in Spain over the last two decades. These include, among others, commissioning the first ATP system on the Mediterranean Corridor, the first driverless rail system at Madrid Airport, the first ERTMS Level 2 system without Level 1 support on the Albacete–Alicante high-speed line, and the ongoing automation project for Metro de Madrid.

Alstom in Spain has more than 800 experts dedicated to developing signalling solutions, supported by a Centre of Excellence and testing laboratories in Madrid, as well as project management hubs in León, Sitges and Málaga. From its Spanish facilities, Alstom designs and supplies signalling and digital mobility solutions for over 20 countries. 

With over 30 years of experience, Alstom is a leading supplier of onboard and on-track ERTMS/ETCS equipmen. Alstom has delivered 135 ERTMS/ETCS projects worldwie, installed more than 19,200 onboard units, and supervised over 46,000 kilometres of track.

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