Modernisation of the Channel Tunnel: Compagnie des Signaux selected by Eurotunnel for the first phase of the project.
Compagnie des Signaux supports Eurotunnel in the modernisation of the Channel Tunnel signalling system
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Major project for a strategic rail corridor
The Channel Tunnel is a key link between France and the United Kingdom. It accommodates LeShuttle Passenger and LeShuttle Freight, freight trains, and international passenger services.
Deploying ERTMS represents a crucial evolution for infrastructure that is both highly sensitive and complex.
“With this partnership, we are taking an essential step in the modernisation of our infrastructure and reinforcing our commitment to ever safer, more efficient and interoperable rail operations. This project forms part of Eurotunnel’s mission to connect Europe by harnessing the best technologies to optimise the accessibility of our infrastructure,” said Didier Cazelles, Chief Executive Officer of Eurotunnel.
Modernising LeShuttle locomotives
This first phase involves equipping the 57 Brush locomotives used on Eurotunnel shuttles running between Folkestone and Coquelles.
CSEE will supply a dual‑standard ERTMS/TVM onboard system designed to:
- ensure a smooth transition between the current TVM system and ETCS;
- minimise locomotive downtime;
- prepare for future integration with new trackside installations.
With ERTMS, real‑time information exchanges between the train and the infrastructure significantly enhance safety, operational performance, and system responsiveness.
Robust and future‑proof technology
The chosen solution is based on the expertise of CSEE and the MERMEC Group, recognised for integrating signalling systems into locomotives operating under intensive conditions.
It relies on:
- a highly secure hardware and software platform;
- a robust architecture ensuring maximum availability;
- a sustainable design compatible with future ERTMS programme developments.
“We are proud to continue more than 30 years of successful collaboration with Eurotunnel. This new signalling modernisation project illustrates renewed confidence in our expertise and our ability to support Eurotunnel in its technical and operational challenges. Our dual-standard ERTMS/TVM solution has been designed to guarantee safety, performance, and availability, while facilitating the transition to European standards. Compagnie des Signaux also relies on the recognised expertise of the MERMEC group in integrating signalling systems on fleets of locomotives in operation,” says Gilles Pascault, President of Compagnie des Signaux.
A further stage will involve adapting the trackside installations to ensure full communication between the onboard systems and the infrastructure.
About Eurotunnel
Eurotunnel, the historic brand of the Getlink group, has operated the Channel Tunnel since 1994. Through its Truck and Passenger Shuttles between Folkestone and Coquelles, Eurotunnel offers the fastest and most reliable link across the Channel.
Since opening, more than 518 million people and 106 million vehicles have used the infrastructure.
More information: www.getlinkgroup.com/eurotunnel
About Compagnie des Signaux (CSEE)
Founded in 1902 and part of the MERMEC Group, Compagnie des Signaux is a major player in high‑speed railway signalling and integrated traffic control and management systems.
With more than 7,000 km of equipped lines and 2,000 onboard systems deployed worldwide, CSEE contributes to major projects across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
More information: www.csignaux.com
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