Bombardier delivers landmark technology for Sweden high speed line

Bombardier will join Botniabanan AB tomorrow in celebrating the inauguration of the new high speed Botnia Line in Sweden – the first rail line in the Nordic area to be operating with ERTMS/ETCS Level 2 functionality. Bombardier has supplied its BOMBARDIER INTERFLO 450 rail control system for the ground-breaking new line, going into operation on the north-east coast of Sweden, running from Nyland to Gimonäs.

With the capability to operate at speeds of up to 250 km/h, the 190km line will become the highest-speed track in the country. The region, which includes a series of significant industrial locations, will benefit from efficient freight transport and significantly reduced passenger travel times.

The Bombardier ERTMS Level 2 solution will provide the basis for further roll-out throughout the region. Bombardier’s scope for the Botnia line project comprised the trackside products required for the 22 station line, with 143 bridges and 25 km of tunnels, including wayside and onboard automatic train protection.

Tomorrow’s inauguration will be hosted by Botniabanan AB together with the local communities and held in the presence of the Swedish King, Carl XVI Gustaf, with invited guests from the Swedish parliament, local politicians and other officials, as well as representatives from the companies involved in the line construction and the media. As a highlight of the celebration, guests will travel along the line, stopping at four of the major cities en route.

Peter Cedervall, Head of Rail Control Solutions Nordic Region,, Bombardier Transportation, commented: “In light of our unique relationship with the Swedish market, we are particularly proud to have delivered our technology for this landmark line. This milestone for our technology attests to our strong reputation in Sweden and continuing leadership in ERTMS.”

Klas Wåhlberg, President Bombardier Transportation Sweden, added: “Bombardier has continued to be a market leader in Sweden for over 100 years. Supplying this new ERTMS technology, a key factor in the development of the rail network in the Nordic Region, is a very important project for us. The project further demonstrates our expertise in this field and is yet another important achievement in the implementation of ETCS technology, enabling vehicles to transit across borders and rail systems.”