Testing of Azuma ETCS OBU successfully completed
posted on 15th Sep 2025 10:21
Testing at speed of ETCS OBU has been successfully completed for the train which provides the largest inter-city fleet on the East Coast Main Line. The LNER Azuma has been put through its paces in recent weeks on the Melton test track through the Leicestershire countryside. Completing its dynamic testing is a step forward towards the Government-funded East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
The British-built Hitachi Rail train came fitted with on-board ETCS, and has gone through a software upgrade in readiness for using this performance boosting technology on passenger services from next year. The testing at Melton – using the site’s ETCS capability – proves that the upgraded equipment on the train works well, including its integration with the lineside and signalling centre components of ETCS, in operating conditions.
The collaboration between Hitachi Rail, LNER, Network Rail and Agility Trains to progress this ‘First in Class’ train is paving the way for all Hitachi Rail’s intercity fleets on the East Coast Main Line to be cleared for operating in passenger services using ETCS. The milestone is significant not just for the ECML but for the wider network’s digital masterplan.
Ed Akers, Network Rail’s industry partnership director, ECDP, said: “The Azuma fleet is pivotal to the upcoming change in how the East Coast Main Line operates, so this marks significant progress for our transformational programme. We’re also helping the wider digital mission by readying for ETCS operation a train type that operates as far and wide as Inverness and Penzance. We’re incredibly proud that Azuma was selected to be one of the ‘first in class’ trains to test this new technology and lead the way for other Class 800 Hitachi fleets. Reaching this milestone is a testament to the close collaboration of all the teams involved."
Sally Lodge, head of operations, Agility Trains, said: “We are delighted to be at the forefront of this project, working with our industry partners to implement the on-board ETCS solution on our East Coast fleet. All 65 of our Class 800 and 801 high-speed intercity trains are being upgraded with this new technology, playing a key role in enabling the industry’s digital vision to become reality”.
With its dynamic testing now complete, the Azuma First in Class will undergo further software development before going through the assurance process for regulatory approvals. It is expected to take part in ‘system of system’ testing on the ECML in the next few months, in parallel with a wider fitment programme across the Class 80x Hitachi fleets.