Alstom’s Sweden Rail Report: ERTMS & Punctuality

Introduction

Alstom has released a report, *Bringing the railway up to speed with Sweden – five proposals for a better railway system*, outlining five key proposals to enhance Sweden’s railways, focusing on punctuality, capacity, skills development, modernization, and technological innovation. The report highlights the importance of safeguarding Sweden’s railways and presents concrete solutions to create a more punctual, high-capacity, and innovative transport system.

Main Content

Punctuality and Capacity Improvements

The report emphasizes that Sweden’s railway network is central to economic growth, regional development, and social cohesion. More than a billion train journeys take place in Sweden each year, twice as many as in the 1990s. The Swedish Transport Administration estimates that rail travel will increase by 47 percent by 2045.

Collaboration and Efficiency

Alstom’s proposals include increasing collaboration to deliver more railway for less money. Stronger cooperation between industry and authorities can accelerate construction processes and optimize costs.

ERTMS Implementation and Modernization

The report suggests leveraging industry expertise to accelerate the rollout of the European Railway Traffic Management System (ERTMS), improving punctuality, capacity, and safety. Furthermore, it advocates for modernizing procurement and financing models to streamline railway construction and maintenance while creating opportunities for public–private partnerships.

Skills Development and Innovation

The report also highlights the need to leverage and develop skills within the railway sector, emphasizing educational initiatives at all levels to meet current and future skills requirements. Additionally, it calls for a greater focus on research and innovation to strengthen the railway’s role in a sustainable transport system.

Alstom’s Role

Alstom is the largest supplier in the Swedish train market, with over a thousand trains delivered and several major maintenance contracts. The company is also leading the implementation of ERTMS in Sweden, both on board vehicles and along the tracks.

Conclusion

Alstom’s report, *Bringing the railway up to speed with Sweden – five proposals for a better railway system*, presents solutions to create a more punctual, high-capacity, and innovative transport system. The report focuses on punctuality, capacity, outdated infrastructure, skills development, and innovation to maximize the impact of upcoming infrastructure investments.

Company Summary

Alstom is a world leader in smart and sustainable mobility and the largest supplier in the Swedish train market, with over a thousand trains delivered and several major maintenance contracts. The company is also leading the implementation of ERTMS in Sweden.

Technology

ERTMS: The European Railway Traffic Management System. Industry expertise should be harnessed to implement the European Railway Traffic Management System faster, improving punctuality, capacity, and safety.