Next Station, The Future: Boosting Railway Systems with Advanced Wireless Solutions
by Blu Wireless
The modernisation of railway systems through advanced wireless communications is not just a journey towards efficiency; it’s a leap into the future of public transport. This article explores the transformative potential of enhancing connectivity on rail networks, offering insights into the available options, benefits, and the expected timeline for these advancements.
Exploring Wireless Communication Options
The spectrum of wireless communication technologies suitable for rail networks is broad, encompassing everything from Wi-Fi and 4G/5G networks to dedicated railway communication systems like GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway). More recently, the focus has shifted towards leveraging 5G mmWave technology, known for its high-speed and low latency capabilities, making it an ideal candidate for supporting the myriad of digital applications required by modern rail systems.
Benefits for Rail Providers and Users
Significant improvements in wireless communication systems promise a win-win scenario for both rail operators and passengers. For providers, these advancements mean enhanced operational efficiency, improved safety protocols through real-time data transmission, and the ability to offer high-quality on-board services such as streaming and real-time journey information. Passengers, on the other hand, can look forward to seamless internet connectivity, faster journey times due to optimised operations, and a generally more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
The Timeline for Change
The question of “when” is complex, as the deployment of these technologies varies widely depending on the region, available infrastructure, and investment levels. Some countries in Asia and Europe are already pioneering the integration of advanced wireless solutions in their rail networks, showcasing a near-future reality where these technologies are standard. Elsewhere, the transition may take several years, influenced by the need for substantial investment and infrastructure upgrades.
Challenges and Current Implementations
The adoption of advanced wireless solutions in railway systems has not been without its challenges. Factors such as the high cost of technology, the need for extensive infrastructure modifications, and regulatory hurdles have slowed progress. However, there are success stories, such as the partnership between Blu Wireless and FirstGroup in the UK, aiming to revolutionise rail connectivity with 5G mmWave technology. These pioneering projects demonstrate the feasibility and immense benefits of enhancing wireless communications in railway systems.
The Economics of Rail Passenger Wi-Fi
Dr Susskind, Professor of Economics at Oxford University, has used the same business case assumptions used by the UK Government in estimating the return on investment for the HS2 project to calculate the return on investment for improved passenger Wi-Fi. This calculation assumes a nominal value of a commuter’s time is £6.04 per hour and that of a business traveller is £31.96 per hour. Dr Susskind further calculated that British passengers make around 1.5 billion rail journeys a year with two-thirds of journeys classified as commuter and a quarter as business travel. Using these numbers, Dr Susskind argues that the total value of time spent on board trains in the UK is around £18 billion a year.
By making that travel time more productive through enhanced connectivity, the UK economy could receive a much-needed boost. In the HS2 business case, the maximum return for every £1 invested in HS2 was £2.50. According to Dr Susskind, the return on investment for the British economy of improving the Wi-Fi on British trains could be as much as £50 for every £1 invested. Therefore, fixing passenger Wi-Fi would represent 20 times better value than the best-case ever presented for the original investment of £50 billion in constructing HS2 (from London to Manchester).
The Future is Very Close
As we stand on the cusp of a connectivity revolution within the railway sector, it’s clear that the journey towards fully integrated, advanced wireless solutions is both inevitable and essential. The challenges are significant, but the potential rewards for rail operators and users alike promise a future of rail travel that is safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable. The next station is the future, and it’s closer than we might think.