Alstom 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 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.

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.