Deliverables: Results Published in August 2026

NEXUS

D7.1 Validation and exploitation of metro system simulation models and AI Applications

NEXUS aims to transform metro systems by developing flexible, demand-responsive capacity, optimizing train operations, and enhancing sustainability. This report documents activities undertaken to validate and exploit the functionalities and applicability of metro system simulation models and newly developed AI-applications for a better mass rapid transit system. It evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of the current metro systems (i.e. AMT and MetroS) and the potential impacts of future fully automated operations in dealing with the current passenger demand and some notable disruption scenarios.

How it brings us closer to achieving better rail for Europe: By providing a validated baseline assessment of current metro system performance and evaluating the impacts of GoA4 automation, AI-enabled operational improvements, energy and CO₂ optimisation, and cybersecurity considerations. The validated models will then be exploited to simulate various proposed future innovative metro improvement measures.

Target audience: Urban Rail stakeholders, Member States, Policymakers

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FP2-R2DATO

D48.3 Self-Driving Freight Wagon (SDFW) conceptual studies: use case list and concept definition

FP2‑R2DATO advances autonomous rail freight operations by defining in D48.3 the conceptual framework for the Self‑Driving Freight Wagon (SDFW). This deliverable includes the description of use cases, system architecture and a classification of SDFW types that will support future autonomous freight wagon operations. D48.3 validates use cases across Self‑Shunting (yard automation) and Self‑Driving (line operations) and by ensuring alignment with WP48 technologies such as Short-Range Communication (SRC) and Relative Localisation (RL). It also clarifies the interaction of the SDFW with key building blocks from FP1‑MOTIONAL and FP5‑TRANS4M‑R, including the Yard Control System (YCS), Traffic Management System (TMS), Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) and Self‑Propelled Freight Wagon (SPFW) components.

To support the activities above, D48.3 introduces five evolutive types of the SDFW, each defined according to the architectural elements and the operational scope of the corresponding use cases and the progressive integration of autonomous capabilities into the rail freight ecosystem and highlights the importance of a stepwise migration strategy. Finally, the deliverable provides a preliminary CAPEX/OPEX assessment to support early business‑case development for subsequent phases of SDFW evolution.

How it brings us closer to achieving better rail for Europe: By defining evolutive concept for autonomous freight wagons, D48.3 supports the development of new SDFW technologies that can be used across Europe. The defined use cases and interactions with FP1‑MOTIONAL and FP5‑TRANS4M‑R support to make yard and line operations more efficient, flexible and safer (while reducing manual shunting). As a result, D48.3 helps build a more digital, reliable and cost‑effective freight system across Europe transport network.

Target audience: Rail stakeholders, Intermodal terminal operators, Rail freight operators, Railway undertakings, Infrastructure Managers

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FP2-R2DATO

D8.3. Safety analysis for ATO functions

FP2-R2DATO advances rail safety and efficiency by supporting the development of Automatic and Autonomous Train Operation (ATO) demonstrating technologies that are moving toward higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL). D8.3 provides the safety analysis and risk assessment needed in order to support the development of advanced Automated Train Operation (ATO) by focusing on the safety critical functions of the Automated Driving Module (ADM), Automated Processing Module (APM) and Repository (REP) and evaluating railway safety barriers. D8.3 is based on the System Requirements Specification (SRS) baseline 1 and updates the hazard identification carried out in X2R-4 project. The deliverable defines updated safety requirements, the needed SIL levels, the next steps and strengthen the cooperation to integrate the safety results into the next version of the ATO GoA3/4 specification.

How it brings us closer to achieving better rail for Europe: By showing how safe ATO up to GoA4 can operate safety critical functions (ADM, APM and REP), D8.3 proves that advanced automation can be used without reducing Europe’s high safety standards. This contributes to increase safety, reliability and capacity, improves punctuality and reduces operational risks.

Target audience: Rail stakeholders, Railway undertakings, Infrastructure Managers, Member States, Policymakers, National Safety Authorities, Notified Bodies

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PHDs EU-Rail

D2.1 Data collection and analysis: Innovation Implementation in Railways

This deliverable analyses innovation pathways for the decarbonisation of railway operations using the Joint-Stock Company “Ukrainian Railways” (UZ) as a case study. It examines the organisational structure supporting innovation, identifies the main areas of railway decarbonisation (including track electrification, alternative traction, and digitalisation ) and assesses the progress made in each area. While recognising the specific challenges created by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the study highlights that many of its findings are also relevant to broader European railway innovation practices. The report identifies the main barriers slowing the implementation of decarbonisation measures, ranks them according to their impact and complexity, and proposes key conditions to accelerate innovation, with digitalisation identified as the highest priority. It also develops medium-term scenarios for the future evolution of UZ, concluding that a gradual and adaptive approach to modernisation is the most realistic pathway towards a more sustainable railway system.

How it brings us closer to achieving better rail for Europe: By identifying barriers, priorities, and practical pathways for railway decarbonisation, this work provides valuable insights for accelerating the transition to greener rail systems.

Target audience: Rail stakeholders, Policymakers, researchers, Member States.

More information on this topic: PHDs EU-Rail