Alstom Completes First Installation of ETCS on Irish Train

Alstom has completed both the installation and assessment body certification of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 1 on the Head of Series (HoS) for the IÉ 22000 Class DMU.

The train, 22001, has now been awarded its required Assessment Body (AsBo), Notified Body (NoBo) and Designated Body (DeBo) certificates from the Independent Safety Assessor (RINA).

The certification comes following the installation of trackside infrastructure for ETCS implementation spanning roughly 120km. The system overlay aims to integrate new safety features, as well as improved interoperability across the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) network from Dundalk to Greystones.

Alstom has stated that the purpose of the HoS project is to showcase the importance of its European Vital Computer (EVC) as a central safety component within ETCS. The system aims to replace the existing Automatic Train Protection (ATP) and Continuous Automatic Warning System (CAWS) solutions and therefore take on the role of the main train protection system.

The system will support the roll-out of Ireland’s new DART+ fleet, which will be built by Alstom and feature ETCS as standard.

Julie Williams, Project Manager at Alstom, said:

Successfully completing the ETCS installation and assessment body certification on the Head of Series for the 22000 Class is a proud moment for the entire team. This milestone not only validates the seamless integration of Alstom’s onboard systems with Ireland’s trackside infrastructure, but also demonstrates our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, safety-driven solutions that support the future of Irish rail.

It sets a strong foundation for the rollout of the new DART+ fleet and reinforces our dedication to innovation and excellence in rail modernisation.

The HoS project has been delivered in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), and represents one of the largest Level 1 ETCS installations within Europe.

Peter Smyth, Chief Mechanical Engineer at Iarnród Éireann, said:

Availability of the first ETCS fitted train in Ireland delivered by the Head of Series project has enabled early trackside and trainborne integration testing ahead of the entry to service of the new DART+ fleet. This is an important milestone for both projects.

ETCS retrofit projects have proven to be challenging across Europe, however through collaborative working with both teams, the HoS project has reached a significant milestone.

Alstom currently has a ten-year framework agreement with Irish Rail for the provision of up to 750 commuter rail cars, which will enter service as part of the DART+ programme. Thus far, 37 five-car X’trapolis trains have been ordered alongside a 15-year support services contract.

The order will consist of 31 battery electric multiple units (BEMUs), a first for Ireland, with the remaining six being made up of Electric Multiple Units (EMUs).

The trains are currently being manufactured at Alstom’s Chorzów facility near Katowice in Poland. The first train from the new fleet arrived in Dublin in 2024, and is now undergoing testing before entering service in 2026.