Automatic Train Operation (ATO) is the automated operation of rail freight transport on the track. Remote Train Operation (RTO) is the operation of rail freight transport on the track supported by remote monitoring and remote control. ATO and RTO technology supports employees. Employees are involved in trial operations on the locomotive and at the remote monitoring and control center.

Subject of trial operation

ATO and RTO are tested in the overall system with the timetable and infrastructure for the first time in the open network with different train compositions and their individual train dynamics characteristics.

In ATO and RTO operation, the locomotive automatically takes over and optimizes acceleration, travel, braking, and stopping. The dynamics that occur are taken into account by the ATO system. Journeys with different types of cars and loading scenarios are considered: from heavy bulk freight cars to partially filled tank cars.

The route for trial operations

The one-year trial phase is taking place on a section of the Dutch Betuweroute. The Betuweroute is a highly frequented route and, as part of the Rhine-Alpine corridor, one of the most economically important freight transport routes in Europe. This makes it a representative and challenging test environment. The trial will involve mixed operation between ATO and RTO trains and regular trains.

Further information about the project as well as the partners here on the project webpage: www.railautomation.eu/en