A groundbreaking programme that transforms commuter trains into highly effective mobile inspection platforms is being significantly expanded across the South-East London, Kent, and parts of East Sussex rail network.
South Eastern Railway is actively deploying innovative technology to improve network performance and reliability for passengers.
The expansion follows a successful pilot earlier this year where a small number of Class 707 ‘City Beam’ trains were fitted with thermal imaging cameras on their front. This trial successfully spotted 41 overheating incidents, preventing a calculated over 9,000 minutes of customer delays.
The technology, provided by AIVR tech company One Big Circle, is now being rolled out to an additional 20 Class 375 ‘Electrostar’ Main Line trains, joining the 12 Class 707 ‘City Beam’ trains already equipped. While similar technology has been used by other UK operators, South Eastern Railway is the first to permanently install on-board cameras on this substantial scale.
The move means that both Metro services (principally serving South-East London) and longer distance Main Line services will now be covered, allowing for broader network monitoring and helping to spot issues across an extended area before they can cause major disruption.
Spotting ‘Hot Spots’ and Slips
The train-borne AI-monitoring cameras represent a significant advance in railway maintenance. They are designed to be safer and more efficient, helping to reduce delays across the network.
The thermal imaging cameras can rapidly identify ‘hot spots’ on the rail network, relaying this information directly to asset engineers. Engineers can then review the data remotely and make informed decisions on whether repairs are needed. This proactive approach resolves issues before they cause disruption to customer journeys.
In addition to thermal monitoring, five of the 20 new Class 375 trains will also be fitted with cameras underneath the body. These will monitor the track’s condition, specifically assessing how slippery the track is, and checking the condition of the train’s electrical ‘shoe’ and the conductor rail. These assessments are expected to support further performance improvements, particularly during difficult weather conditions. The technology also allows maintenance staff to determine required equipment and staffing without the need for initial physical site visits, enhancing both efficiency and safety.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said:
“This Government is fundamentally reforming how our railways are run, creating a network that works better for the people and freight using it.
“The cutting-edge technology South Eastern Railway is installing on its trains is key to achieving this and should serve as an example of the kind of smart investments we’re making as publicly owned rail companies work to improve services.”
“These upgrades will prevent disruption and reduce delays, supporting local jobs, growth, and housing as part of the Government’s plan deliver an efficient and reliable railway.”
Dan Paris, South Eastern Railway’s Fleet Maintenance Director, said:
“Our integrated railway is using train-borne cameras to provide the early warnings we need to identify and fix problems before they cause disruption for our customers.
“The cameras on the City Beams are monitoring our London Metro routes and now with a new set of cameras being added to 20 of our Class 375 trains we can look out for any issues on a much wider area across East Sussex and Kent. I’m confident that they will really help us in our drive to improve performance and reduce delays.”
Emily Kent, Director of One Big Circle, said:
“It’s been fantastic to work with South Eastern Railway to deliver this cutting-edge technology onboard the fleet. The can-do spirit and collaboration of all involved has ensured faster, more effective outcomes that will bring real benefits to passengers and staff across the network.”
