CAF's ATO tested in the Netherlands

CAF's signalling division has completed an ambitious technological innovation project focused on the implementation of Automatic Train Operation (ATO) up to GoA4 level (fully autonomous). in the Netherlands, in collaboration with Nederlandse Spoorwegen.

This project included two key lines of action. The first, ATO Endurance, consisted of carrying out exhaustive tests of the ATO system at GoA2 level (automatic driving with driver in cab), operating on the entire Dutch network regardless of the automatic train protection (ATP) system present, whether it is ETCS, the national ATB system or a combination of both. The objective was to evaluate improvements in energy efficiency, punctuality and capacity covering more than 40,000km travelled.

The second line of research focused on Remote/Autonomous Shunting, i. e., remote and automated operations were executed in a real depot environment, including the route between the depot and the first/last station, even with mixed traffic. The tests included maneuvers in remote mode (GoA1 and GoA2; manual and automatic, respectively) and fully autonomous operations (GoA4, driverless).

The success of the program has been shown in a demonstration between the De Vork depot and the main station in Groningen. Two runs in remote driving (GoA1) with remote-controlled coupling and uncoupling were completed, as well as one run at GoA4 level. The latter included advanced tasks such as activating cabs, coupling and uncoupling with other trains, driving while respecting lateral signalling and detecting obstacles, including track buffers stops, trains and dummies. Despite adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain and snow at nightfall, the perception systems have proven their reliability, ensuring successful operations.