Alstom and Thales were awarded a contract by MTR Corp., the operator of Hong Kong’s metro network, to resignal and upgrade the signaling systems of seven metro lines1. A maintenance option is also included in the contract.

The extensive project will equip seven MTR lines with the latest Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) technology, safely adding capacity, reliability and maintainability on the existing infrastructure system.

Alstom and Thales will be responsible for the replacement of the existing signaling system, including Automatic Train Supervision, interlocking, and Automatic Train Control in the control center, trains and stations. Thales will provide the advanced SelTrac® CBTC system.

The project implementation will be carried out by a dedicated Alstom Thales joint project team. Thales, the consortium leader, has the technical leadership and Alstom will ensure the overall project management, as well as the supply of the remote trackside equipment controllers to deliver seamless interface with the existing field elements.

CBTC is the latest generation of technology for metro and suburban rail networks. It gives operators precise control in the movement of their trains, allowing them to run on the line at higher frequencies and speeds in total safety — with or without drivers. CBTC can largely improve capacity, efficiency, reliability, safety of metro lines and reduce operating costs for operators.