The Spanish public rail operator Renfe will install a new communications platform on all AVE and long-distance train series. The system will combine 4G and 5G networks with low-Earth orbit satellite connections and will prioritize communications necessary for rail operations.
Renfe is preparing to upgrade connectivity aboard 183 high-speed and long-distance trains, in a project that will transform the current PlayRenfe platform into a unified communications infrastructure.
The contract calls for an estimated investment of 49.7 EUR million, plus operating expenses of EUR 35.7 million. The total value of the project and associated services thus amounts to approximately 85.4 EUR million.
The new network will be used not only to provide passengers with access to the internet and entertainment content, but also to support the systems necessary for train operations.
5G, 4G, and Satellite Connections
The platform will combine multiple connectivity technologies, including LTE 4G, 5G, LTE-M, and communications via low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
The use of satellite connections should reduce interruptions and improve communication stability in areas where terrestrial mobile network coverage is poor.
The infrastructure will also be prepared for the upcoming 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) technology, which will enable direct connection to satellites via mobile networks.
Renfe states that the new architecture will be able to automatically select the available connectivity solution to increase coverage and transmission capacity, while also keeping costs down.
Internal network of up to 10 Gbps
The project also includes a major upgrade of the trains’ internal networks. Transmission capacity will increase to 10 Gbps to simultaneously support passenger services and onboard technical systems.
The following will operate on the same infrastructure:
passenger information systems;
video surveillance cameras;
remote diagnostics;
energy consumption monitoring;
amenity services;
the PlayRenfe entertainment platform;
future digital applications introduced by the operator.
Renfe specifies that data traffic will be prioritized based on the importance of each service. Communications related to train operations and safety will take priority over the internet and entertainment services offered to passengers.
Additional Cybersecurity Measures
The new platform will include advanced onboard cybersecurity measures designed to protect equipment, applications, and data exchanges.
The contract will cover connectivity, supplier coordination, maintenance, and the full operation of the communications infrastructure.
By consolidating systems that currently operate separately, Renfe aims to reduce the number of devices, simplify maintenance, and prepare the trains for the introduction of new digital services.
A tailored solution for each train series
The modernization will cover all of Renfe’s high-speed train series, but the equipment cannot be installed using a one-size-fits-all approach.
Each series has a different technological configuration, so a tailored solution will need to be designed. Before rolling out the system across the entire fleet, Renfe will conduct a pilot project for each type of train.
The operator will modernize trains that already have certain connectivity features and will expand the system to more than 26 additional trains beyond the fleet currently covered.
Gradual implementation over five years
The transition to the new platform will take place gradually over five years to ensure that current services can continue without interruption.
During this period, existing equipment and the new systems will operate in parallel. The PlayRenfe infrastructure currently in use will be replaced gradually as each series of trains is modernized and tested.
Source: https://www.railwaypro.com/wp/renfe-to-install-5g-and-satellite-internet-on-183-trains/
