New Bombardier Class 379 Trains are equipped with Internet Access for Passengers, Crew and all Onboard Systems
Chatham Kent (April 20th 2011) – Icomera’s onboard internet solution is providing high availability broadband internet access on the world’s most connected train fleet as it goes into live service on the Stansted Express route between Stansted Airport and London. Icomera was selected to supply a complete internet access solution for Bombardier’s new Class 379 trains, which are now being delivered to National Express East Anglia. The Icomera system is providing internet access for passengers, staff and onboard systems including CCTV, passenger information and Bombardier’s train management system.
Jon Shaw, Engineering Director at Bombardier Transportation said: “The Class 379 fleet marks a step-change in our EMU design, which will provide a higher level of passenger service to Stansted Express customers. The real-time data communications provided by the Icomera system will, as part of Bombardier’s train management system, also deliver a raft of benefits in terms of the operation and maintenance of the fleet through its lifetime.”
Mike Watkins, National Express’s Class 379 Fleet Contracts Manager said: “The Class 379 project has been successful in terms of both the innovative train design and the project’s on-time delivery. We are very excited that our customers on the Stansted route will now start to experience some of the most technically advanced trains in the world.”
Icomera has been working with Bombardier Transportation to equip National Express’s 30 new Stansted Express trains with its industry-leading on-train broadband solution, which uses its patented SureWAN technology to seamlessly switch between and aggregate multiple mobile data networks to ensure always-on broadband connectivity in every carriage, for passengers, crew and onboard systems as the train moves through its journey.
“Our new fleet of Bombardier Class 379 trains are delivering a new level of comfort and service to passengers travelling between Stansted Airport and London. The onboard Wi-Fi service means that business travelers, commuters and holidaymakers taking the 50-minute train journey into London can stay connected with friends, family and work colleagues,” said Andrew Chivers, NXEA Managing Director.
Peter Kingsland, Icomera Senior Sales Director said: “Icomera is extremely proud to have been supporting Bombardier Transportation and National Express on this innovative project. For the first time the passengers, train operator and the manufacturer/maintainer will all benefit from one core IP communications system. The new Stansted Express fleet represents a major step towards the realization of the intelligent train vision.”
Icomera launched the world’s first high-speed Internet solution for trains in September 2002 and is today the world’s leading provider of open Internet connectivity and application platforms for passenger transport and public safety. Our award-winning products are deployed on rail, road and sea, serving more than 15 million Wi-Fi users in over 20 countries and providing high-speed access for fleet tracking and mission-critical on-board systems.
Transport solutions of the future will require more than connectivity – passengers need to be entertained, the vehicles need to be monitored and the staff need to be kept informed. Together with our application partners Icomera is already meeting these and other needs through the deployment of complete transportation communication solutions.
Established in 1999, Icomera is headquartered in Sweden with office in the United Kingdom and channel partners worldwide. For more information visit www.icomera.com.
