Wedoany.com Report-Dec.3, Siemens Mobility and Oslo public transport operator Sporveien have successfully launched passenger service using a new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system on a 3-kilometre section of the Oslo Metro in Norway.

The upgrade applies to the entire Oslo Metro network and incorporates the 8km Fornebubanen extension, including its six new stations.

The rollout forms part of a €270 million contract awarded to Siemens Mobility in 2021. The project covers complete replacement of legacy signalling across the entire 86-kilometre Oslo Metro network and integration of the future 8-kilometre Fornebubanen extension, which will add six new stations.

The installed Trainguard MT CBTC solution operates at Grade of Automation Level 2 (GoA2) and raises line capacity from 28 to 36 trains per hour – an increase of approximately 30 per cent. The system’s technical design supports potential future operation of up to 40 trains per hour.

A key feature of the Oslo implementation is the use of public LTE mobile networks for critical train-to-track communications, marking the first such deployment on a European metro system.

Siemens Mobility will also deliver 25 years of digital maintenance services and asset management through its Railigent X platform.

Siemens Mobility CEO Michael Peter stated: "Our partnership with Sporveien dates back nearly 130 years to the Holmenkollen Line. Today, we are proud to introduce Norway's first CBTC system, bringing Oslo’s metro into a new era. This milestone will increase capacity by around 30%, enabling more frequent departures and promoting sustainable mobility for travellers."

The upgrade supports Oslo's goal of achieving emission-free urban transport by enhancing metro frequency and encouraging greater use of public transport.

Once fully implemented across the network and the Fornebubanen line, the modernised signalling will provide significantly higher capacity, improved reliability, and seamless operation for one of Europe's fastest-growing capital regions.