The first dynamic test of Hitachi’s digital signalling technology for the Paris-Lyon high-speed line has been completed successfully.

A dynamic test was a key milestone in the deployment of Hitachi Rail‘s next-generation interlocking system and means the project will be able to enter operational service next autumn.

Hitachi Rail is working with SNCF Reseau to modernise the Paris-Lyon High-Speed Line by replacing the current signal boxes with next-generation computerised interlocking systems known as SEI+.

The project forms part of the overall LGV+ Paris – Lyon contract valued at of €129.3m which was awarded to Hitachi Rail in December 2019.

The dynamic tests are a crucial stage in the development of the project, as they bring many months of preparation and programming into real-world operation.

The tests were carried out on part of the Paris area (Zone A), and their success proved that Hitachi Rail’s interlocking system correctly enabled the test train, fitted with ERTMS digital signalling, to be run with real commands from the Mistral remote control centre located over 500km away in Lyon.

The system uses the European standard for ground-train communication and interoperability, which is based on innovative computer and telecommunications technologies.

Over 100 people are involved in the project’s development and deployment activities, including 30 Hitachi Rail team members who are dedicated to the development of the new SEI+ technology.

The tests were made more complex because they were carried out on an operational line, which meant that the tests could only be conducted at night.

Hitachi Rail’s on-site testers supervised the testing of the SEI+ substations located along the line and assisted SNCF staff in the Lyon control room in Lyon by collecting and analysing the results.

The project’s next major milestone is to complete product development with an associated safety file and complete on-site testing before the system enters commercial operation by autumn 2024.

Bernard Teyssieux, Project Manager at Hitachi Rail, said “This is the first time that Hitachi Rail’s remit includes essential services such as on-platform testing and on-site testing as part of the renovation project of a line operated by SNCF. We would therefore like to thank SNCF for its confidence and the close collaboration between our respective teams, which has enabled us to successfully complete this key milestone of the project.”