Avanti West Coast introduces technology to boost train service reliability in world first
Avanti West Coast has begun trialling a first of its kind timetable optimisation tool created by Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS).
- Avanti West Coast trials timetable optimisation tool in world first for transport industry
- Technology created by Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS)
- Innovative approach designed to improve train service reliability and customer experience during unplanned disruption
Avanti West Coast has begun trialling a pioneering new tool to boost train service reliability during unplanned disruption in a world first for transport.
Working with Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS) – an independent digital engineering research organisation - the intercity operator has adopted a timetable optimisation program to support its response to unplanned disruption at the click of a button.
This first of a kind technology created by CFMS uses data simulation to formulate prompt recommendations for train services impacted by scenarios such as speed restrictions and line closures.
Avanti West Coast’s operational staff enter factors that can affect planned services to receive fully optimised timetable suggestions, which can be implemented instantly to keep trains running where possible and reduce the impact on customers.
The technology is designed to support decision making, which should reduce delays and cancellations, as well as enable more reliable information to be shared sooner with customers whose journeys are impacted.
Each scenario entered is saved on the system and can be used again for similar situations in the future. This enables the intercity operator to be better prepared for unplanned disruption with access to off the shelf plans.
For one year the technology will be used to support Avanti West Coast’s operations on its Anglo-Scot and North Wales routes, which are often affected by severe weather.
As part of the trial, Avanti will also explore how the tool could support its wider operations, including train crew availability and fleet when it is unable to operate its scheduled timetable due to weather, infrastructure issues or an incident on the line.
The train operator partnered with CFMS who specialise in creating model-based design methods to help businesses use digital technologies to improve performance and efficiencies. The software trial is part of Avanti’s commitment to adopt innovations aimed at improving the railway.
CFMS received funding through the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI)’s First of a Kind (FOAK) competition, which is funded by the Department for Transport and delivered by Innovate UK, to develop its technology.
This pioneering tool has been shortlisted at The Engineer magazine’s Collaborate to Innovate (C2I) Awards.
Andy Mellors, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast said: “Whilst timetable optimisation isn’t a new concept, I’m proud Avanti West Coast is leading the transport industry with this innovative technology that can help us to deliver a better service for customers when things don’t go as planned.
“Innovation can play a key role in shaping the future of the West Coast, as well as the wider rail industry. By working with the Centre for Modelling and Simulation on this ground-breaking tool, we have the means to make a massive difference in how the rail industry responds to unplanned disruption and keeps customers moving.”
Sam Paice, CEO at CFMS, said: “Bringing our significant expertise in modelling and simulation and closely collaborating with Avanti West Coast, we’ve developed a first of a kind tool that has the potential to transform how disruption is managed and minimised.
“This is a major step forward for technology adoption across industries, helping to keep the railways and the UK moving.”
Contact Information
Chris Penn
Notes to editors
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward. Avanti West Coast serves key UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow as well as North Wales.
We’re on a mission to be the transport of choice – connecting customers and communities along the West Coast. Our award-winning Pendolino refurbishment programme transformed the UK’s hardest working fleet with all 56 of the iconic trains providing best-in-class comfort.
Our Evero fleet, which offers more seats, improved comfort, and a substantial cut to carbon emissions, was introduced in June 2024 and is the result of a £350m investment in sustainable travel. Built by Hitachi, the 23-strong fleet, consisting of 10 seven-carriage electric trains and 13 five-carriage bi-modes, serves routes from London to the Midlands, Chester, North Wales and the North West.
We want to make a positive difference to the people and places we serve – helping to drive economic growth, green travel, and break down barriers. Our efforts to contribute to society and enable people to benefit from the opportunities rail offers through purpose-led initiatives including Feel Good Field Trips and award-winning female driver recruitment campaign has seen us create over £1billion in social value impact.
We’re tackling climate change wherever we can, from reducing energy and water use to training drivers in eco-driving techniques and sourcing food and drink from local suppliers. Our goal is to be net zero carbon by 2031. We’re on track.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Centre: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333
About Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS)
CFMS is a National Centre for Modelling and Simulation. We harness cutting-edge technologies to design, model and analyse hypercomplex challenges from our secure on-site data centre. In doing so, we turn unique, extraordinary visions into exciting realities that push the boundaries of possibility.
Our capabilities across model-based engineering, digital prototyping, robotics and autonomous systems combine with our expertise and collaborative teams to provide significant value to organisations. Whether it’s expanding design spaces, reducing uncertainty in novel innovations or increasing efficiency in processes, our capabilities are tailored to achieve the most value for our customers.
Our capabilities are industry agnostic, drawing on significant experience in modelling, simulation and high performance compute to provide solutions to your engineering challenges.
From early careers opportunities through to post-graduate development and CPD, we facilitate and spark growth in our people. Their expertise ensures the most effective application of our capabilities and makes sure we are always advancing our knowledge and understanding of new technologies.
Visit https://cfms.org.uk for more information.