Siemens Mobility Wins Chile ETCS L2 Contract, Modernizing Rail Network

Siemens Mobility Secures Landmark ETCS L2 Contract for EFE Trenes de Chile, Ushering in a New Era of Digital Signalling in Latin America. EFE Trenes de Chile has awarded Siemens Mobility a pivotal contract to implement its first European Train Control System Level 2 (ETCS L2) project in Chile, covering 87km of vital rail infrastructure on the Tren Alameda-Melipilla and Tren Santiago-Batuco routes. This significant development marks a major step forward in modernizing Chile’s railway network with advanced digital signalling capabilities.

Strategic Impact: Digital Transformation on the Rails

This contract represents a significant milestone for both Siemens Mobility and EFE Trenes de Chile, introducing state-of-the-art ETCS Level 2 signalling to the nation and marking the first deployment of Siemens Mobility’s Signaling X platform in Latin America. The initiative will modernize 87km of railway across the developing Tren Alameda-Melipilla and Tren Santiago-Batuco corridors. Siemens Mobility’s comprehensive five-year engagement will encompass engineering, supply, installation, and commissioning, followed by a decade of crucial maintenance, ensuring long-term operational reliability and efficiency.

Operational Details: Integrated and Advanced Systems

The deployed ETCS Level 2 systems will leverage the robust DS3 platform, engineered for Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL4) applications, guaranteeing the highest standards of safety. Siemens Mobility’s Signaling X platform will centralize interlockings, signalling, and control systems within a virtual data centre, enhancing operational oversight and reducing the complexity of traditional infrastructure. This digital transformation includes the integration of interlockings, wayside equipment, dedicated traffic control centres, and sophisticated onboard systems for a fleet of 32 trains. Communication will be facilitated by 4G-LTE technology, with a forward-looking option for 5G upgrades in future projects, ensuring the network remains at the cutting edge of technological advancement.

Technical Specifications

• Signalling System: ETCS Level 2
• Platform: DS3 (Safety Integrity Level 4 – SIL4)
• Centralized System: Siemens Mobility Signaling X platform
• Interlocking Systems: Reduced number through integrated approach
• Traffic Control: Dedicated traffic control centres
• Onboard Systems: For 32 trains
• Communication: 4G-LTE (with 5G upgrade option)

Industry Context: Leading the Digitalization Wave in Latin America

Siemens Mobility’s substantial contract with EFE Trenes de Chile underscores its position as a leading force in railway digitalization across Latin America. This achievement follows closely on the heels of Siemens Mobility securing the largest ETCS Level 2 contract to date in the region, awarded by a Brazilian operator. The company’s extensive track record, including successful automated metro and digitalization projects in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina, highlights its commitment to driving transformative change within the continent’s rail sector. By establishing a regional software maintenance Centre of Competence, Siemens Mobility is further solidifying its dedication to supporting future projects and fostering local expertise, setting a new benchmark for operational excellence and innovation in railway infrastructure across the Americas.