UK: The Peppercorn Class A1 60163 Tornado, produced in 2008 by the local A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, has been successfully tested on the Cambrian line in Wales.
The pathfinder project has united a group of companies. Hitachi Rail and AtkinsRéalis were responsible for the design and production of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, while the infrastructure operator Network Rail was in charge of the technology’s installation on the vehicle.
Onboard ETCS Level 2 (left) in the driver’s cab of the Peppercorn Class A1 60163 Tornado steam locomotive. Source: Hitachi Rail
In the process of testing, there were reported significant challenges with electrical supply of the onboard equipment and with managing the braking system. The team also had to tackle the harsh operational environments with increased dustiness, noisiness and vibrations.
The project aims at facilitating and expanding operations of touristic steam locomotives and trains on the UK’s public networks.
