Horizon Europe Article: On the right track: driving innovation in European rail travel

The EU-funded FP2-R2DATO project is developing remote-operated and fully autonomous train technologies to make European railways greener, safer and more efficient. Partners from 12 countries are testing digital systems that improve capacity and streamline operations without building new infrastructure.

Trials in Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland have successfully demonstrated remote-driven trams and trains. The next step involves fully autonomous operations using an advanced perception system—the “eyes of the train”—to detect obstacles and make driving decisions.

The project also aims to harmonise Europe’s fragmented railway systems to enable smooth cross-border travel. Researchers are testing innovations such as Moving Block technology, which increases network capacity by allowing trains to run closer together, and satellite-based positioning to enhance rail safety systems like ERTMS.

Supported by Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking, these developments are expected to transform European railways over the next decade, making rail transport more reliable, efficient and sustainable.

Link of Horizon Europe Article: On the right track: driving innovation in European rail travel | Horizon Magazine