Siemens Mobility: São Paulo Rail ATO/ETCS Upgrade – Efficiency Gains

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Introduction

Siemens Mobility has been awarded a contract by Trivia Trens to retrofit three São Paulo commuter rail lines in Brazil with Automatic Train Operation (ATO) over European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 technology. The project will cover 140km of track and 46 stations.

Project Scope and Implementation

The project, which is the “largest” deployment of this digital signalling technology in Latin America, involves the upgrade of three rail lines: 11-Coral, 12-Sapphire, and 13-Jade. Siemens Mobility will equip 107 trains, six locomotives MRS, three Trivia locomotives, and 17 auxiliary vehicles with Trainguard ETCS onboard units. The contract encompasses the full design, supply, installation, commissioning, and assisted operation phases of the signalling upgrade.

Technology and System Components

Siemens Mobility will implement an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATS), new interlocking systems, a Radio Block Centre (RBC), and complete trackside infrastructure. The ETCS Level 2 system utilizes TETRA for “continuous digital supervision of train movements,” while ATO “automates driving functions to Grade of Automation Level 2.” The integration of ATO over ETCS is designed to support operational efficiency and safety on São Paulo’s commuter routes. This integration allows for “precise” train operations, including acceleration, braking, and accurate stopping, as well as “optimised” train intervals.

Operational Benefits and Features

The system uses driving algorithms designed to lower energy consumption and reduce peak power demand. Its simplified architecture is intended to decrease maintenance needs. The system’s framework provides for future upgrades as São Paulo’s urban mobility needs develop.

Contractual Terms and Warranty

The arrangement includes a two-year warranty and the provision of spare parts. The contract was awarded by Trivia Trens, a concessionaire of the Comporte Group, which is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the three rail lines.

Conclusion

Siemens Mobility will retrofit three São Paulo commuter rail lines with ATO over ETCS Level 2 technology. The project includes the implementation of various systems and infrastructure upgrades. The contract includes a two-year warranty and spare parts provision. Last month, Siemens Mobility began constructing a new facility in Luhe-Wildenau, Bavaria, Germany, to manufacture battery systems for rail vehicles. The project has a total investment of approximately €35m ($41m), with Siemens Mobility contributing around €22m.

Company Summary

Siemens Mobility: Awarded the contract to retrofit the São Paulo commuter rail lines with ATO over ETCS Level 2 technology. Also, constructing a new facility in Luhe-Wildenau, Bavaria, Germany, to manufacture battery systems for rail vehicles.

Trivia Trens: A concessionaire of the Comporte Group, tasked with the operation and maintenance of the three rail lines 11-Coral, 12-Sapphire, and 13-Jade. Awarded the contract to Siemens Mobility.

Comporte Group: The parent company of Trivia Trens.

MRS: Six locomotives MRS are to be equipped with Trainguard ETCS onboard units.

Technology

Automatic Train Operation (ATO): Automates driving functions to Grade of Automation Level 2.

European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2: Enables “continuous digital supervision of train movements” using TETRA.

Trainguard ETCS: Onboard units that will be installed on trains, locomotives, and auxiliary vehicles.

Advanced Traffic Management System (ATS): Will be implemented as part of the upgrade.

Radio Block Centre (RBC): Will be implemented as part of the upgrade.

TETRA: Used by ETCS Level 2 for train movement supervision.

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