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Remote Train Operations for Smarter Depots
Challenge
Moving and preparing trains within depots and yards can involve time-consuming operations and repeated staff movements. As railway operators seek greater efficiency and productivity, there is a growing need to optimise these processes without requiring staff to be physically present in the driving cab for every moment.
The solution
Developed within Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail), this solution enables safe and efficient remote operation of rail vehicles, supporting more flexible and automated depot operations. Rail vehicles equipped with sensors, cameras and communication systems can be driven remotely by an operator, enabling safe control without the need to be physically in the cab.
This solution is designed primarily for depot movements and operational efficiency. Remote driving is intended for activities such as moving trains and trams in and out of depots, shunting, preparing vehicles for service, and reducing walking or repositioning time for staff.
Readiness for Industrialisation and Deployment
The solution is ready for industrialisation in some operational scenarios involving non-public areas, such as depots and yards.
Remote stabling operations, from the depot or yard to the first station and back, still requires further studies to increase maturity and are expected to be ready for industrialisation by 2029.
Remote operation as fallback solution for a GoA4 is linked to progress in ATO and industrialisation is not expected before 2030.
Maturity level
The solution has reached TRL7 in some operational scenarios, including private tracks, yards and depots, and it is ready for industrialisation and commercialisation.
Remote stabling operations, from the depot or yard to the first station and back, still require further studies related to operational concepts, regulation and certification. From a technical point of view, TRL6 has been achieved.
Expected benefits
- Greater operational efficiency and increased productivity in depots, as the solution enables operations without requiring staff to physically access the driving cab.
- Enhanced safety for staff, as the solution reduces staff exposure to potentially risky depot environments.
- Improved fleet availability and readiness. Remote operation streamlines essential processes such as preparation for service, withdrawal from service, and shunting, leading to faster fleet turnaround, improved availability, and more reliable deployment of rolling stock.
- Cost‑Efficient use of infrastructure. By optimising depot movements, remote driving helps make better use of existing facilities without requiring physical redesign or additional tracks.
- Increased operational flexibility by enabling flexible staffing models and allowing operators to control multiple vehicles from a centralised location. This can help reduce the operational burden in large depots and improve responsiveness during peak periods or disruption scenarios.
Who benefits
Railway operators
Conclusion
The solution enables more efficient depot operations, reduced time and effort for staff moving vehicles and improved operational flexibility. Depot drivers can become remote drivers, keeping them away from tracks, yards and moving vehicles, thereby reducing accident risks while improving working conditions and well-being.
Ultimately, this solution supports the long-term competitiveness of the market and sector by enabling a more resilient, efficient and technologically advanced European rail system.
Learn more about the project
FP2-R2DATO
To meet the increasing demand for transportation of both passengers and freight, FP2-R2DATO will take the advantages of digitalisation and automation to develop the next generation ATC and deliver scalable digital and automatic (up to autonomous) train operation (DATO) capabilities in order to enhance the capacity of the existing rail networks.