Ireland’s DART+ Program: Alstom’s ETCS Level 1 Installation

Introduction

Alstom has completed the installation and certification of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 on the Head of Series (HoS) for the IE 22000 Class diesel multiple unit (DMU) train 22001, marking a key development in modernizing Ireland’s rail system. The project, which involved approximately 120km of trackside infrastructure, was validated by the Independent Safety Assessor (RINA) and supports the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) network. The initiative, executed in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), involved over 50 positions at Alstom worldwide.

ETCS Installation and Certification

Alstom has finalized the installation and certification of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 on the Head of Series (HoS) for the IE 22000 Class diesel multiple unit (DMU). Train 22001 received the Assessment Body (AsBo), Notified Body (NoBo), and Designated Body (DeBo) certificates from the Independent Safety Assessor (RINA). These certificates confirm the design’s safety and compliance, developed by Alstom and its partners. This project aims to replace existing Automatic Train Protection (ATP) and Continuous Automatic Warning System (CAWS) solutions.

Infrastructure and Network Enhancement

Earlier in the year, Alstom installed approximately 120km of trackside infrastructure to support the ETCS system. This installation enhances safety features and interoperability across the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) network, extending from Dundalk in the north to Greystones in the south. The HoS project is designed to demonstrate Alstom’s European Vital Computer (EVC) as the central safety component within the ETCS framework.

Project Collaboration and Personnel

The project involved over 50 positions at Alstom worldwide, spanning design through on-site testing in Ireland. The project was executed in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail). Alstom project manager Julie Williams commented on the successful completion and the validation of the seamless integration of Alstom’s onboard systems with Ireland’s trackside infrastructure, emphasizing a commitment to safety-driven solutions.

DART+ Programme and Fleet Expansion

The project supports the deployment of Ireland’s new Alstom-manufactured DART+ fleet, which will come with ETCS installed as standard. Alstom has a ten-year framework agreement with Irish Rail for up to 750 new commuter rail cars under the DART+ programme, including confirmed orders for 37 five-car X’trapolis trains and a 15-year support services contract. Funded by the National Transport Authority under the National Development Plan, DART+ aims to double the capacity and triple the electrification of the Greater Dublin network. The trains are being manufactured at Alstom’s Chorzów facility in Poland, including 31 battery electric multiple units (BEMUs) and six Electric Multiple Units (EMUs). The first train from this fleet arrived in Dublin in 2024 and is currently undergoing testing.

Conclusion

Alstom completed the ETCS Level 1 installation and certification for the IE 22000 Class DMU train 22001. The project involved 120km of trackside infrastructure, enhancing the DART network and supporting the DART+ programme. The initiative, in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann, involved over 50 positions at Alstom.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global leader in the railway sector, providing a full range of products and services, including rolling stock, signaling, and infrastructure.

Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail): The primary provider of railway services in the Republic of Ireland.

National Transport Authority: The statutory body responsible for the planning and development of public transport in Ireland.

RINA: An independent body providing certification and assessment services.

Technology

ATP (Automatic Train Protection): A safety system designed to prevent trains from exceeding speed limits or passing signals at danger.

BEMUs (battery electric multiple units): Trains that run on both electricity and batteries.

CAWS (Continuous Automatic Warning System): A system providing an audible warning to train drivers.

DeBo (Designated Body): A body that is designated to assess a product, process or service for compliance with the relevant requirements.

DMU (diesel multiple unit): A multiple-unit train powered by diesel engines.

EMUs (Electric Multiple Units): Trains powered by electricity.

ETCS (European Train Control System): A signaling and train control system designed to enhance railway safety and interoperability.

EVC (European Vital Computer): A key component within the ETCS framework.

HoS (Head of Series): The first unit of a new type of rolling stock.

NoBo (Notified Body): An independent body notified by the European Commission to assess the conformity of certain products.

X’trapolis: A type of commuter train manufactured by Alstom.