Finland has conducted the Nordic region’s first automated train operation using ETCS Level 2 and Automatic Train Operation (ATO). The successful demonstration, led by Siemens Mobility on a 19-kilometre stretch between Juurikorpi and Hamina, showcased precise automated stops, smooth acceleration, and controlled braking under semi-automatic (GoA2) conditions.
The test runs, performed with a modernised train operated by VR-Yhtymä Oyj (VR) and owned by Helsinki Metropolitan Area Rail Equipment (Junakalusto Oy), proved the system’s stability and repeatability in real-world conditions. The automated stops achieved 30 to 80 centimetre precision from 100 km/h. “You can increase capacity by 30%, significantly improve punctuality, and save over 30% of energy,” says Marc Ludwig, CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility.
“This marks a significant step toward more efficient and sustainable rail transport,” said Ludwig, emphasising the collaboration with Finnish partners. The tests involved Automatic Train Operation in Grade of Automation 2, meaning the train is operated by the system, with a driver in the cabin for supervision and to take over control if necessary.
Fintraffic Raide Oy and Siemens Mobility Oy signed an agreement in 2024 to supply a centralised safety equipment system for the first commercial section of the Digirata project, the Lielahti-Rauma/Pori section.
Grades of Automation (GoA) in rail operations
The GoA scale defines levels of train automation, from fully manual (GoA0) to fully driverless (GoA4).
GoA0: Manual operation (driver controls all functions).
GoA1: Manual operation with automatic train protection (e.g., speed supervision).
GoA2: Semi-automated (system drives; driver supervises).
GoA3: Driverless with staff onboard, but not in the driver cabin (e.g., for passenger assistance).
GoA4: Fully automated (no staff; remote monitoring).
Digirail programme at full steam
Finland’s Digirata (digirail) programme is a nationwide initiative to replace older signalling with ETCS and automate operations to enhance safety and efficiency. On 3 March, the Finnish Infrastructure Agency and Fintraffic Rail Traffic Control signed an alliance agreement for the implementation phase of the Digirata project, valid until the end of 2030 and worth €19.3 million.
Esa Sirkiä, Director of the Digirail programme at the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, highlighted the years of joint effort behind the achievement of the ATO and ETCS demonstration. “Train automation combined with modern safety systems increases capacity, enhances safety, and brings greater predictability,” he stated. Sanna Järvenpää, CEO of Fintraffic Railway Ltd, added that the test runs prove what is possible when “railway stakeholders work closely together”.
The European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 provides continuous speed supervision and movement authority, replacing fragmented national systems with a unified standard. ATO builds on this by automating acceleration, braking, and stopping, further optimising traffic flow and energy efficiency.
2029 first commercial operation
Siemens Mobility is equipping two trains with onboard ETCS technology for further testing while modernising the Tampere-Pori/Rauma line with Signaling X, a cloud-ready, virtualised platform. The first commercial section is set to open by 2029. The deployment on this route will serve as an important test platform and information source for the implementation phase, providing practical experience and knowledge that will support the planning and cost-effectiveness of a nationwide implementation.
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