Modernising Rail: The Digital Advantage in ERTMS Projects

The European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is a transformative initiative designed to standardise train control and signalling across Europe, enhancing safety, capacity and interoperability. However, implementation remains highly challenging as each country operates with distinct legacy systems, technical specifications and regulatory frameworks. This fragmentation introduces significant integration and compliance hurdles, particularly in cross-border corridors. At the core is the technical difficulty of integrating ERTMS with diverse legacy signalling and control systems, many of which were never designed for interoperability.

Technology is just one piece of the puzzle

These challenges extend beyond technology alone and are often accompanied by high capital expenditure and extended deployment timelines, particularly in brownfield environments. Successful implementation requires coordinated planning and execution across multiple stakeholders, including infrastructure managers, operators, suppliers and national authorities.

Ensuring safety, maintaining compliance with evolving standards, and preserving operational continuity during transition phases further compound the complexity. Addressing these challenges demands not only robust engineering, but also strategic programme governance and digitally enabled delivery models.

The digital advantage in ERTMS projects

Traditional delivery models are increasingly inadequate in managing this complexity. Digitalisation, through the application of model-based design, connected data environments and digital twins, provides a scalable and systematic approach to address these challenges. These technologies enable more effective system integration, real-time validation, and lifecycle traceability, supporting consistent and efficient ERTMS deployment across diverse national context.

Integrated 3D modelling allows for model-based design of signalling and infrastructure assets, enabling early-stage clash detection and design validation that significantly reduce rework during construction.

Common data environments provide a centralised platform for data sharing, version control and real-time collaboration across multidiscipline teams and suppliers, ensuring consistency and transparency throughout the project lifecycle.

Construction simulation tools using 4D and 5D modelling enable precise planning of construction sequencing and cost control, while minimising disruption to live rail operations.

Additionally, digital twins further enhance system understanding by simulating signalling behaviour and asset interactions, supporting predictive maintenance strategies and informed lifecycle management. Together, these technologies form the backbone of a digitally enabled delivery model that improves efficiency, reduces risk, and enhances the overall quality of ERTMS deployments.

Real-world impact: Banedanmark Denmark signalling upgrade

A compelling example of these digital enablers in action is Banedanmark’s nationwide signalling programme in Denmark. Faced with the challenge of replacing over 50 legacy signalling systems across 2,600 kilometres of track, Banedanmark adopted a fully digital delivery model to manage complexity and risk.

By leveraging integrated 3D modelling and a connected data environment, the project team was able to coordinate design, detect clashes early, and maintain a single source of truth across disciplines. Digital twins were used to simulate signalling logic and asset interactions, enabling early validation and reducing the need for costly on-site testing. Additionally, 4D construction simulation supported precise planning and minimised disruption to live operations. This approach not only improved delivery efficiency and stakeholder coordination, but also set a new benchmark for how large-scale ERTMS programmes can be executed using digital technology.

The future is digital, open and connected

Technology partners play a critical role in enabling the successful digital delivery of ERTMS projects. Bentley Systems has over 25 years of experience supporting rail organisations across the world.

Our integrated rail solutions facilitate model-based design, asset performance management, and construction simulation within a connected data environment, ensuring that complex signalling and infrastructure systems are delivered with precision and transparency. It’s not just about software, as Bentley is committed to open standards and interoperability, which allows seamless integration with other platforms and stakeholders’ systems. This openness is essential in multivendor, multijurisdictional environments like ERTMS, where collaboration and data consistency across the supply chain are key to reducing risk, improving efficiency and ensuring long-term system resilience.

With the European Union continuing to prioritise rail modernisation through funding instruments like the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), there has never been a better time to invest in digital strategies. These funding opportunities can significantly offset the cost of transformation while aligning with broader EU goals for sustainability and interoperability.

Explore how Bentley’s digital solutions can support your ERTMS journey and discover what’s possible.