Siemens Mobility introduces CBTC technology to Berlin subway for first semi-automated operation | Press | Corporate | Siemens
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press releaseJuly 5, 2024Siemens MobilityMunich
The U5 and U8 metro lines will be equipped with the latest Trainguard MT train control system for semi-automated (GoA2) operation.
CBTC will enable shorter headway times and increase line capacity by up to 30%, and the conversion is scheduled to be completed by 2032 while continuing operations.
Siemens Mobility wins tender from Berlin Transport Authority [BVG] A communications-based train control system will be introduced. [CBTC] Semi-automated operation will be possible for the first time on Berlin’s subway lines U5 and U8. The state-of-the-art Trainguard MT CBTC solution will enable semi-automated operation (GoA2: automation level) on the U5 line by 2029 and on the U8 line by 2032, increasing the capacity of these lines by around 30 percent. Technically speaking, CBTC technology also enables headways of less than 100 seconds. This technological advancement will also significantly improve the reliability and punctuality of the two subway lines. Siemens Mobility will carry out the conversion during ongoing operations to ensure that trains on both lines of Germany’s largest subway system can continue to run uninterrupted throughout the entire project. The contract is worth around €200 million with an additional long-term technical maintenance contract.
The U5 and U8 metro lines will be equipped with the latest Trainguard MT train control system for semi-automated (GoA2) operation.
CBTC will enable shorter headway times and increase line capacity by up to 30%, and the conversion is scheduled to be completed by 2032 while continuing operations.
Siemens Mobility wins tender from Berlin Transport Authority [BVG] A communications-based train control system will be introduced. [CBTC] Semi-automated operation will be possible for the first time on Berlin’s subway lines U5 and U8. The state-of-the-art Trainguard MT CBTC solution will enable semi-automated operation (GoA2: automation level) on the U5 line by 2029 and on the U8 line by 2032, increasing the capacity of these lines by around 30 percent. Technically speaking, CBTC technology also enables headways of less than 100 seconds. This technological advancement will also significantly improve the reliability and punctuality of the two subway lines. Siemens Mobility will carry out the conversion during ongoing operations to ensure that trains on both lines of Germany’s largest subway system can continue to run uninterrupted throughout the entire project. The contract is worth around €200 million with an additional long-term technical maintenance contract.
Siemens Mobility deploys CBTC technology on Berlin subway, making semi-automated operation the first
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, said: “Our investment in cutting-edge CBTC subway technology is really good news for Berlin’s rail users. It creates the technical conditions for semi-automated trains to run on the line every 100 seconds. This means a 30% increase in passenger capacity for Berliners and is the best answer to strengthening climate protection and meeting their growing mobility needs. Our proven CBTC subway system is already in use in many major cities around the world, such as Singapore, Paris and New York.”
Trainguard MT train control system for Berlin Metro lines U5 and U8
BVG’s U5 and U8 lines will be equipped with Trainguard MT over a total line distance of 40 kilometers, including all 26 stations on the U5 line and 24 stations on the U8 line. Siemens Mobility will fully replace the existing signaling system with digital CBTC technology, enabling more efficient, centralized operational monitoring as well as higher levels of automation and connectivity. Once the system is in place, semi-automated operation will enable trains to continuously communicate with the track side, automatically navigate at designated safety intervals, apply emergency braking, and accelerate and brake autonomously. This allows train drivers to focus on boarding and alighting passengers, visually monitor the route and intervene in emergencies. With real-time data on train positions and speeds, more trains can be run along the line with shorter intervals.
Siemens Mobility deploys CBTC technology on Berlin subway, making semi-automated operation the first
Digitalization makes rail more efficient
Siemens Mobility’s Rail Infrastructure business unit, a global market leader, offers a wide range of intelligent mobility solutions and a diverse product portfolio for various rail markets, including mass transit, mainline and freight. The company’s Trainguard MT CBTC solution is a leading solution for train control systems. It is currently used by 56 operators in 49 cities across 25 countries on five continents to optimize their metro and suburban rail systems to operate more efficiently, sustainably and economically. Trainguard MT is the most widely used control system in the world, currently deployed on 96 metro lines and on 4,351 equipped trains carrying more than 30 million passengers daily. The system maximizes the capacity and performance of new and existing rail systems and enables fully automated train operations.
Siemens Mobility is a separate company of Siemens AG. A leader in intelligent transportation solutions for more than 175 years, Siemens Mobility is constantly innovating its portfolio. Its core areas include rail vehicles, rail automation and electrification, a comprehensive software portfolio, turnkey systems and related services. With digital products and solutions, Siemens Mobility enables mobility operators worldwide to make their infrastructure intelligent and sustainably increase value over the entire lifecycle, improve passenger experience and guarantee availability. In fiscal year 2023, which ended on September 30, 2023, Siemens Mobility posted revenue of €10.5 billion and employed around 39,800 employees worldwide. For more information, please visit www.siemens.com/mobility.
