Fast autonomous train tested

A driverless train which can reach 200km/h has been tested by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB).

It’s investigating a new autopilot system to boost “capacity and safety”, RT news reports.

The upgrade allows trains to speed up and slow down without needing a driver, as part of the SBB’s SmartRail 4.0 digitisation of infrastructure
A double decker passenger train was successfully tested between Berne and Olten, a mechanic on board monitoring the system.

No passengers were allowed on the night trial.

The technology allows the train to run on its own, but SBB suggests the technology will only be implemented as a “driver assistance system”.

The company says qualified personnel will have to be on board the trains to ensure the safety and punctuality of railway operations.