Bombardier Transportation delivered the world's first application of a European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) regional solution on the Västerdal line in Sweden.

The Bombardier INTERFLO 550 ERTMS regional system reduces operational costs and accommodates increased traffic capacity and automated train control around the clock, according to the company.

Meeting the new rail control specification of the International Union of Railways (UIC) for less intensively used routes, the system began operation earlier this spring. The newly equipped line is the pilot project under Bombardier's frame agreement with the Swedish Transport Administration (STA), the country's national rail operator.

INTERFLO 550 technology has effectively upgraded the line from manual to automatic control, creating a sustainable alternative for lines otherwise burdened with the cost of maintaining manual operation or upgrading to traditional remote-controlled signaling. The new system combines the ERTMS standard for onboard automatic train protection with a radio-based wayside system, thereby minimizing trackside equipment.

Bombardier together with the STA will showcase the new technology at the UIC ERTMS World Conference to be held in Stockholm, Sweden this month. As well as a technical demonstration on a section of the Borlänge to Malung line northwest of Stockholm, the event will include a series of seminars.