Next Generation Train Control (NGTC): More Effective Railways through the Convergence of Main-line and Urban Train Control Systems

The main scope of Next Generation Train Control (NGTC) project is to analyse the commonality and differences of required functionality for mainline and urban lines and develop the convergence of both European Train Control System (ETCS) and Communication Based Train Control (CBTC) systems, determining the level of commonality of architecture, hardware platforms, and system design that can be achieved. This will be accomplished by building on the experience of ETCS and its standardised train protection kernel, where the different manufacturers can deliver equipment based on the same standardized specifications and by using the experience the suppliers have gained by having developed very sophisticated and innovative CBTC systems around the world. The paper focuses on the analyses of the already produced NGTC Functional Requirements Specifications and is summarizing other project activities on various train control technology developments suitable for future train control systems.