Stadler tests autopilot system
Bussnang TG – Stadler Rail and the Swiss railway company SBB are currently testing an automated assistance system that can autonomously accelerate and decelerate the train under the supervision of the train driver. The goal is to increase capacity and safety in rail traffic.
Stadler Rail is using one of its double-decker trains on the route between Bern and Olten to test the new system. According to a joint statement from Stadler and SBB, the train driver monitors the new driving assistance system from the driver’s cab. The system automatically accelerates and decelerates the train, making it comparable to an autopilot system. Thanks to this autopilot feature, the train can also travel in a pre-defined programme for an energy-saving operation mode.
Stadler and SBB regard these tests as an opportunity to further expand the already high level of automation in rail traffic. For instance, 90 per cent of signal boxes are now controlled by an IT system. But to further exploit the potential of the existing infrastructure, railway technology should be gradually developed even further to include autopilot features. According to both companies, this offers several advantages: capacity and safety are increased, energy consumption is optimized and costs are reduced.
In order to have the greatest possible impact, however, the system must be used across national borders, and the SBB is already discussing this with the European railway industry. At the same time, humans will continue to play a central role in the future given that employee knowledge will be a key factor in applying the new technology, explained SBB.