The newest section of the London Underground is set to be partially automated, bringing some much-needed modernity to one of the oldest public transport systems in the world.
Elizabeth Line Underground sign. Credit: cktravels.com / Shutterstock
The line forms part of the greater Crossrail project, set to open next year. Credit: cktravels.com / Shutterstock
Siemens Mobility has been tasked to bring its communication and control systems, Trainguard MT, to the recently-opened Elizabeth line that could make trains operate with fewer delays on behalf of the line's owner, Crossrail and Transport for London.
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In essence, the technology automates the process of sending information between the train and equipment on the track, meaning that any changes made can be done independently of human operators.
In particular, systems such as this favour the flow of rapid transit trains, thus making the entire service more efficient. The entire process was tested with various potential variables using simulation technology, which should allow either human operators or the technology itself to respond to different scenarios.
Trainguard MT has already seen use at various metros in several countries, including the Algiers Metro in Algeria, the Barcelona Metro 9, the Budapest M2 and M4 lines, the Guangfo Metro in China and an upcoming line in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Elizabeth Line, which runs between Paddington and Abbey Wood, was officially opened on May 24, 2022, marks a major step in the modification of the London Underground, something Siemens is already actively involved in.
The firm has already partnered with Transport for London to reduce emissions along the Piccadilly line by bringing in new trains to replace the current stock which dates back to the 1970s.
The line was under construction for around 14 years and has been named to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's platinum jubilee later at the end of May.
“We are delighted to open the Elizabeth line for passengers today, which is a truly historic moment for the capital and the UK, showcasing this stunning addition to our network," said UK Transport Minister Andy Byford.
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"The Elizabeth line will help transform life and travel in London and the South East by dramatically improving transport links, cutting journey times, providing additional capacity, and transforming accessibility with spacious new stations and walk-through trains," he claims.
Siemens claims the new communication systems "touch" nearly every aspect of the railway, including CCTV, public address, passenger information systems to rail and station systems.
The team faced a challenge in connecting these systems, all of which speak various computer languages or are part of entirely different modules.
As such, the firm used its simulation tech to test several possible real-life situations beforehand.
As part of the communication software, information will be easily delivered to passengers to increase reliability and ease of travel. It will also staff to better manage the stations, identify and avoid crowding, respond to incidents quickly, and ultimately provide "the best possible passenger experience".
Described as a "landmark project" by the company's CEO the project could "significantly transform mobility in London and across southeast England" for its annual 200 million passengers.
"Our digital signalling and station management technologies are transforming the everyday journeys of Elizabeth line passengers in London and the South East and we’re proud that much of the technology was developed and tested in the UK", Michael Peter said.
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The Elizabeth Line forms part of the Crossrail system, a project to bring high-frequency rail, primarily concentrated in Central London but spilling over into the home counties.
The full line is expected to become operational in 2023 and could see as many as 24 trains per hour each way.
Many of the trains used on the line will also be electric, which will help commuters in London - transport being responsible for as much as 25% of London's emissions, with the sector as a whole covering 27% of the UK greenhouse gas emissions - and the public transport systems operate in a far greener fashion.
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