Learning from Italy: How Germany can also introduce the European Train Control System (ETCS) more efficiently

ETCS, the central component for the digitalisation of the railways, will be introduced much more effectively in Italy than in Germany, according to the latest "ETCS - EUROPEAN MARKET OUTLOOK" study by SCI Verkehr. This is because Italy is pursuing an ambitious goal with its ERTMS acceleration plan: The entire 16,800 kilometre rail network is to be equipped with ETCS by 2036. The Italian approach shows how a solid strategic plan can pave the way for faster and more cost-effective implementation: With a solid funding commitment, centralised coordination and a clear timetable for the decommissioning of the Class B system. While Italy and other European countries such as Belgium can gradually increase their network capacity earlier thanks to successful implementation, Germany faces considerable challenges in the introduction of ETCS: Even though it is planned to equip the entire network by 2043, a lack of funding, capacity bottlenecks at suppliers and inadequate coordination are hampering progress.