A famous British steam locomotive appeared in “Paddington 2” and
Top Gear
Has become the inaugural instance to be ‘future-proofed’ as part of an extensive plan to phase out cherished conventional traffic lights.
The changes, set to be rolled out across the country in coming years, mean Britain will be following in the footsteps of Europe as it introduces the digital-only technology and considers replacement of the vehicles’ fire-breathing machines.
Network Rail
intends to have certain trains operating in a digital-only mode starting at the conclusion of 2025. Additionally, the historic “A1” No.60163 Tornado was the first locomotive globally to utilize the new train control system just last month.
Hitachi Rail’s European Train Control System (ETCS) is a digital signaling technology designed to replace conventional trackside signals.
It functions by sending movement authorities and speed restrictions directly to the train cabin, aiming to enable operators to manage their operations with higher accuracy.
Network Rail states that they intend to replace the traditional lineside color light signals with in-cab signaling systems on major routes to ensure the continued operation of around 500 steam trains annually throughout the UK.
So far, no taxis have ever operated using in-cab digital signaling systems—similar to what was installed on the Tornado locomotive for approximately £9 million.
For the first time, The Tornado operated using ETCS – which is extensively utilized across Europe – between Shrewsbury and Newtown as well as Welshpool during an overnight session on a Monday earlier this month.
Amy Clouston, the lead human factors specialist at AtkinsRéalis Engineering Consultancy, which was responsible for designing the system installation, spoke to the Observer about their testing process. She mentioned, “We needed to verify if it’s possible to operate a touchscreen effectively when traveling at speeds of up to 75 mph.”
‘We’ve had to think about vibrations, lighting, noise, coal dust, water and steam and grubby fingers.’
The announcement follows last year when Network Rail released a £40 million tender document inviting bids from companies interested in equipping 24 mainline steam and heritage diesel locomotives.
In 2021, managers introduced the ETCS technology.
Atkins Réalis’s Clouston contended that the initiative was crucial for the sustainability of the primary steam locomotive industry: “Since steam engines form an integral part of our national engineering legacy, it would be regrettable if they were limited exclusively to privately-owned, heritage rail lines.”
‘Seeing steam locomotives operating on the mainline is truly delightful.’
Andy Bell, Vice President of Hitachi Rail UK, commented: “This exceptional initiative showcases both the flexibility of our system and the potential that arises from integrating advanced engineering skills with strong, reliable collaborations throughout the sector.”
This type of collective advancement, built upon practical trials and shared confidence, will keep fueling change throughout the rail industry.
The knowledge we’ve acquired has produced a precious roadmap for future endeavors.
Translating the connections, insights, and technological advancements from this project will be crucial for sustaining the drive towards integrating heritage elements and expanding their use in contemporary railway vehicles.
In a memorable episode of Top Gear from 2009, host Jeremy Clarkson raced the Tornado locomotive with co-presenters Richard Hammond and James May from London to Edinburgh.
In this episode, Mr. Clarkson was tasked with feeding the boiler a continuous supply of coal; without doing so, the entire train would come to a stop.
