Alstom Revolutionises Cross-Border Rail Operations with Multisystem Traxx Universal Locomotives and Innovative Signalling Solutions

Alstom Revolutionises Cross-Border Rail Operations with Multisystem Traxx Universal Locomotives and Innovative Signalling Solutions

(IN BRIEF) Alstom is revolutionising cross-border rail transport in Europe with its Traxx Universal™ locomotives, which offer multisystem capabilities to navigate varying electrification standards across countries. These locomotives, combined with Alstom’s Onvia™ ETCS signalling system, enhance operational efficiency by ensuring seamless transitions between different national systems. Alstom also provides extensive maintenance services across Europe to keep its fleet in optimal condition, ensuring high availability and reliability for operators. As the company expands its presence with new agreements and tailored solutions, Alstom continues to be a leading force in the future of European rail transport, driving innovation and sustainability.

(PRESS RELEASE) SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, 7-May-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Alstom continues to set the standard for cross-border rail operations with its cutting-edge Traxx Universal™ locomotives and Onvia™ signalling system, playing a crucial role in the future of European rail networks. Alstom’s locomotives, which are capable of traversing eight countries, form the backbone of both freight and passenger transport across Europe, overcoming challenges like varying electrification systems and complex signalling standards.

Meeting the Electrification and Signalling Challenges

Cross-border rail systems face two major hurdles: differing electrification systems and varying national signalling standards. Alstom’s solution to these challenges is its versatile Traxx Universal™ locomotives, which are designed to handle multiple electrification standards, allowing seamless operation across countries. These locomotives are capable of handling various catenary voltages and are available in both freight and passenger configurations, with the ability to travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h and offer a high tractive effort of up to 340 kN.

The locomotives are further enhanced with the “Last Mile” functionality, which allows them to travel beyond electrified networks, increasing operational efficiency. This feature is particularly valuable for accessing terminals, ports, and shunting yards, reducing operational costs and boosting flexibility.

Another significant challenge for cross-border operations is the variety of signalling systems in use across Europe. Alstom’s Onvia™ system addresses this by providing an advanced ETCS signalling solution that ensures interoperability between different national systems. This system not only facilitates smooth transitions across borders but also optimises train scheduling, safety, and automation. Onvia’s ability to automatically switch between signalling systems while trains are in motion significantly reduces border delays, enhancing the overall efficiency of rail transport.

Ensuring Reliable and Efficient Operations Across Europe

For cross-border operations to be truly effective, the locomotives must be reliable and maintainable across various European countries. Alstom’s services play a key role in this regard. With over 40 maintenance sites and a network serving 60+ customers across Europe, Alstom’s comprehensive maintenance support ensures that its locomotives remain in top condition, allowing operators to maximise fleet availability.

Alstom’s HealthHub™ solution uses advanced AI to predict potential issues and remotely monitor locomotive conditions, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime. Furthermore, the company has digitalised the parts sourcing process, making over 15,000 spare parts available via the StationOne™ online marketplace, which streamlines procurement and logistics.

The Future of Cross-Border Operations

Alstom’s Traxx Universal™ locomotives are not only ideal for international corridors but also provide benefits for intra-national operations. The company’s commitment to developing tailored solutions for regional markets is evident in its recent delivery of locomotives for Mercitalia, equipped with Last Mile functionality and DC voltage capabilities for the Italian market.

Alstom continues to expand its footprint with frame agreements with leading rail operators and lessors, including CFL, Northrail, Akiem, and Railpool, for operations on the French corridor. As Europe’s rail networks become increasingly interconnected, Alstom’s advanced locomotives, signalling solutions, and comprehensive services will be essential in keeping cross-border operations running smoothly, efficiently, and sustainably.

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SOURCE: ALSTOM