KeTech takes Connected Driver Advisory Systems from concept to cab

C-DAS helps train drivers make better decisions in real time. By connecting to live signalling data, train running information and working timetables, it advises on optimal driving. The impact is immediate: reduced energy use, improved punctuality, and less wear on rolling stock. It’s smarter, smoother driving, underpinned by real-time data.

The concept isn’t new. The idea that trains can drive more efficiently if drivers are given predictive, real-time advice has been around for over a decade. The difference now, is that KeTech has managed to do what others haven’t –While most DAS/S-DAS systems rely on static schedules alone, KeTech’s system is fully dynamic – constantly updating based on what’s actually happening on the network.

Operators are under pressure to reduce costs, cut carbon and squeeze every drop of performance from existing infrastructure, a true C-DAS tackles all three of these challenges so the question isn’t why we need C-DAS, it’s, who’s got it right?

Real impact

Even if C-DAS was rolled out across the UK network with just a 20% gain, it would equate to more than £860 million in annual energy savings without changing rolling stock or infrastructure.. KeTech’s C-DAS not only provides reductions in cost and energy usage, but provides a real-time look ahead view of the network through being connected to different data feeds to paint a live picture of the rail environment.

Crucially, C-DAS also helps reduce carbon emissions. Lower energy consumption means fewer emissions, whether electric or diesel. For freight services, in particular, where trains often run with no regenerative braking and rely solely on friction brakes, KeTech’s system helps drivers plan ahead to avoid wasted energy and unnecessary stops.

The benefits aren’t limited to energy or environment. Smoother driving means fewer brake applications, extended component life, lower maintenance costs, fewer disruptive failures and better timetable punctuality.

Fit for freight, passengers and hybrid locomotives

KeTech’s C-DAS isn’t limited to passenger operations, it’s proving its worth in freight, too. Heavy trains, often diesel-powered, stand to benefit enormously from the system’s predictive capabilities, especially on routes with varying traffic flow or frequent signal checks.

For modern hybrid locomotives, KeTech’s system adds another layer of intelligence. These locomotives use a mix of overhead power, diesel and battery. KeTech’s C-DAS can help manage that complexity, optimising when to use battery power, when to recharge through braking, and when to hold back to preserve energy. That’s particularly important when batteries can cost upwards of £150,000 and have a fixed shelf life.

Digital railway ready

Unlike some systems that depend on centralised Traffic Management Systems (TMS), KeTech’s solution is much smarter than that.  It is built to work with existing industry data feeds, including DARWIN and class B standard signalling. KeTech’s C-DAS is deployable now, providing network-wide benefits today, but designed to integrate seamlessly as the industry rolls out digital signalling with ERTMS and ETCS. Where ETCS and ETRMS are not available, KeTech’s C-DAS replicates that intelligence in the form of live driver advice, providing a look ahead to the driver. The system informs drivers of what’s ahead, bringing forward that visibility and bridging the gap.

Importantly, it also feeds data back into the wider system. Insights from C-DAS can help operators and Network Rail refine timetables, understand delay patterns, and optimise timetable and capacity planning. It’s not just helping the train in front of you – it’s helping the railway environment as a whole work better.

Designed and developed by a proven partner

While many systems remain stuck in innovation scheme trials or theory, KeTech’s Connected Driver Advisory System (C-DAS) is already delivering on all three fronts and doing it in real-world conditions.

KeTech’s Connected Driver Advisory System (C-DAS) helps drivers make better, more informed decisions. By integrating live signalling, timetables, and real-time train running data, it provides dynamic speed advice – prompting drivers when to accelerate, decelerate, or coast. This results in smoother journeys, with fewer abrupt stops and improved energy efficiency.

The benefits are clear, reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and less wear and tear on rolling stock.

KeTech’s C-DAS sets a ‘gold standard’ for train driving. Built on multiple real-time data feeds, the system overlays diverse datasets to assess both railway conditions and train characteristics. This ensures the advice given is consistently accurate and reliable. The system has intelligence at its core, it uses advanced algorithms to process complex data and deliver rich, actionable insights directly to the driver.

It’s a simple idea, but not one that’s easy to engineer. KeTech has developed with the conviction of transforming an idea into a system that delivers big results.  With decades of experience in real-time information systems, deep understanding of the operational and technical data and challenges of the railway. KeTech’s C-DAS is designed not just to meet current industry standards but to exceed them, offering a scalable solution that evolves with the railway.

Find out more about KeTech’s solutions.