Eurotunnel launches with Compagnie des Signaux the first phase of project to modernise rail signalling in the Channel Tunnel

Coquelles, 15 January 2026 – Eurotunnel, concessionaire of the Channel Tunnel and operator of the Truck and Passenger (cars and coaches) Shuttles running between Folkestone (Great Britain) and Coquelles (France), is launching the first phase of the roll-out of a new railway signalling system.

This project is part of the Channel Tunnel signalling system modernisation programme and the strategy for interoperability and accessibility for the latest generations of trains. By equipping itself with the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), Eurotunnel is preparing for the future of its operations and will take advantage of technical advances aimed at improving infrastructure performance and enhancing safety. 

The first phase of the project concerns the on-board signalling system for the 57 Brush locomotives used on LeShuttle services between Folkestone and Coquelles. ERTMS technology enables a continuous exchange of information between the train and the ground infrastructure; it includes ETCS (European Train Control System), an on-board train control and safety system. Compagnie des Signaux – CSEE, a member company of the MERMEC Group, has been selected to supply the new signalling and control system, based on a standardised and innovative solution that enables the transition on board locomotives from the current TVM (track-to-machine transmission) system to the ETCS.

"With this partnership, we are taking an essential step in the modernisation of our infrastructure and reinforcing  our commitment to ever safer, more efficient and interoperable rail operations. This project forms part of Eurotunnel's mission to connect Europe by harnessing the best technologies to optimise the accessibility of our infrastructure," said Didier Cazelles, Chief Executive Officer of Eurotunnel.

An innovative, integrated and proven solution for a smooth transition

The solution proposed by CSEE is a dual ERTMS/TVM standard, specifically designed to facilitate a smooth transition in line with the overall system migration schedule. This solution helps minimise locomotive downtime.

“We are proud to continue more than 30 years of successful collaboration with Eurotunnel. This new signalling modernisation project illustrates renewed confidence in our expertise and our ability to support Eurotunnel in its technical and operational challenges. Our dual-standard ERTMS/TVM solution has been designed to guarantee safety, performance, and availability, while facilitating the transition to European standards. Compagnie des Signaux also relies on the recognised expertise of the MERMEC group in integrating signalling systems on fleets of locomotives in operation,” says Gilles Pascault, President of Compagnie des Signaux.

Commitment to safety, quality and sustainability

The dual-standard solution adopted by many operators around the world guarantees robustness, reliability and sustainability. It is based on a hardware and software platform delivering the maximum levels of availability and safety expected by Eurotunnel.

This first phase of the project applies to on-board systems, followed by a phase to adapt the ground infrastructure, enabling communication between the two systems.

***

About Eurotunnel 

Eurotunnel operates the Channel Tunnel, the world’s longest undersea tunnel, providing a vital link between the UK and France. Eurotunnel facilitates the movement of millions of passengers and freight vehicles each year through its efficient and sustainable services. With a commitment to innovation and reliability, Eurotunnel ensures seamless cross-border travel, supporting economic growth and connectivity across Europe.

https://www.getlinkgroup.com/en/our-group/eurotunnel/

About Compagnie des Signaux

Founded in 1902, Compagnie des Signaux, with shareholders MERMEC, BPI France (French State Investment Bank), and BNP Paribas, is a leading company in high-speed railway signaling and integrated systems for passenger and freight transport. Specializing in providing turnkey signaling solutions based on the latest ETCS standards for the management and control of new or existing railway networks, it collaborates with railway infrastructure managers, railway operators, and high-speed train manufacturers worldwide.

To date, CSEE has equipped more than 7,000 kilometers of high-speed railway lines and installed more than 2,000 onboard units worldwide, with active projects in Europe, Asia, and Africa, particularly in Morocco, Spain, and South Korea.

Visit www.csignaux.com for more information.