Challenges and Perspectives of Modern Railways (2. strana)
Challenges and Perspectives of Modern Railways
96 ǀ POSITIV 1/2025
DOPRAVA
The system you mentioned is a key element in railway
digitalisation. Do you see the future in autonomous
train operation? How is this segment developing in
the Czech Republic?
Railway automation is a major topic. Metro systems
already use Grade of Automation (GoA) 4, which
eliminates the human factor and enhances safety. In
railway transport, the process is more complex due to
the open infrastructure, but automation is gradually
advancing. Alstom is already testing autonomous trains,
and their deployment is only a matter of time.
In addition to autonomous trains, there is a lot of
discussion about digital coupling. How do you see its
future?
In Western Europe, digital coupling is gradually being
implemented because it eliminates the physically
demanding manual coupling process. In the Czech
Republic, it currently faces resistance due to high costs,
but as wages rise and interest in physically demanding
jobs declines, its adoption will become inevitable.
Alstom is actively engaged in this field and is working
on the development of digital coupling technology.
What role will artificial intelligence play in all of this?
Artificial intelligence is becoming a key component
of the railway industry. I see its application primarily
in two areas. Cybersecurity and learning algorithms,
which help assess potential threats and protect systems
from cyberattacks. Predictive maintenance, where
AI analyses operational data from locomotives and
predicts component wear. This enables preventive
maintenance, reduces unplanned downtime, and
extends the lifespan of vehicles.
So, digitalisation and automation are transforming
not just the transportation itself, but also the entire
system of its management?
Yes, digitalisation is not limited to the trains themselves—
it is also reshaping traffic management. Today, we have
numerous dispatchers who monitor traffic continuously.
However, smart systems that utilise automated traffic
control are gradually being introduced. This means that
the role of human operators will shift more towards
supervision and oversight rather than direct control.
Alstom is also active in the locomotive sector, which
brings us to our next question. The Traxx locomotive
is considered one of the most modern and high-
performance models. What exactly sets it apart from
the competition?
The Traxx locomotive is the latest third-generation
modular, multi-purpose locomotive on the market,
offering several advantages over competitors and
standing out with its innovative design. Thanks to
sophisticated adhesion control, it delivers high initial
and continuous traction force with exceptional energy
efficiency. It boasts high reliability and, consequently,
greater availability.
For instance, the traction and push rod system enables
the Traxx locomotive to achieve unprecedented
performance curves in freight transport. Additionally,
a hybrid solution is available, featuring an independent
„last mile“ drive for greater operational flexibility.
(Editor’s note: “Last mile” means the final part of the
route.)
From an ergonomic perspective, the side windows at
the driver‘s eye level improve visibility while operating
the locomotive, significantly enhancing safety. In terms
of maintenance, the roof is divided into three sections,
allowing for the release of just one part during repairs,
facilitating modular replacements. This speeds up
servicing and reduces downtime.
Alstom has a production plant in Česká Lípa.
Are there plans for its expansion?
Yes, we have already expanded our capacities in the
area of fit-out 1, which includes the installation of pipes,
hoses, and flooring into train car bodies. Following the
closure of our plant in Görlitz, we relocated part of the
production to Česká Lípa, where we are continuously
increasing our manufacturing volume.
What are you preparing for the upcoming Rail
Business Days in Ostrava?
Our customer ČD Cargo will be showcasing the
Alstom Traxx MS3 locomotive equipped with the
latest technological enhancements. At the same time,
we will be focusing on the ETCS system. We aim to
demonstrate how it works and highlight its benefits for
more efficient and safer railway operations.
And what about your other projects?
We are actively collaborating with the Výzkumný Ústav
Železniční (Railway Research Institute) on testing new
rail vehicles at the Velim test centre. One of the most
exciting projects is the testing of the first double-deck
high-speed train unit, which could reach speeds of 320
km/h or more. This is the world‘s first double-deck TGV
M high-speed train.
We are currently cooperating with the Výzkumný
Ústav Železniční (Railway Research Institute) on
testing new rail vehicles at the Velim test centre. One
of the most interesting projects is the testing of the first
double-deck TGV M high-speed train unit, which can
reach speeds of 320 km/h or more. If everything goes
according to plan, we could enter the final phase by
summer and subsequently begin serial production.
Thank you for the interview.
Autonomous trains are only
a maer of me.
High-speed rail will transform the face
of Czech railway transport.