Britain's iconic High-Speed Trains (HSTs) are being fitted with modern digital in-cab signaling, marking a major milestone for the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP) and aligning with the Rail 200 celebrations.
Sixteen Class 43 power cars are being equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS), a next-generation signaling technology that will eventually replace traditional wayside signals with real-time digital displays in train drivers' cabs.
The ETCS-fitted Class 43 fleet supports future mixed-traffic operational options, spanning various operators and uses: four power cars are owned by RailAdventure for freight and rolling stock transport; another four, operated by Locomotive Services Limited, primarily serve private charter services; the remaining eight, leased by Colas Rail from Porterbrook, are used for infrastructure operations, including Network Rail's New Measurement Train (NMT).
These locomotives are expected to undergo full upgrades by mid-2026, enabling seamless operation on the East Coast Main Line (ECML) and other digitally signaled routes as ETCS is rolled out. Hitachi Rail, a key partner in the digital transformation, is leading the technology integration. Paul Maynard, Vice President of Integrated Communication Supervision at Hitachi Rail, noted: "Fitting 'digital brains' to Britain's legendary InterCity 125 power cars demonstrates how rail's past and future can coexist. Equipping these Class 43s with ETCS makes them safer, more connected, and extends their service life."
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