Passengers on selected ScotRail services in the Scottish Highlands are set to benefit from a significant upgrade in onboard connectivity, thanks to a pioneering new satellite technology trial.
In a UK first for passenger rail Wi-Fi, ScotRail has partnered with Bathgate-based Clarus Networks to implement a system that allows trains operating in rural Scotland to connect to a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network.
Six Class 158 trains, serving routes in the north of Scotland from Inverness to Wick, Thurso, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Aberdeen, have been equipped with the new technology for a six-month trial period. This initiative aims to tackle the long-standing challenges of on-train connectivity in the region and is the result of collaborative efforts between ScotRail and Clarus Networks, with support from the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and the Scottish Futures Trust.
Reliable digital connectivity throughout journeys is expected to significantly enhance the customer experience, delivering benefits such as:
- Improved customer Wi-Fi service.
- Wi-Fi calling capabilities for both passengers and staff.
- GPS tracking of trains to facilitate integrated public transport journeys.
- Live access and download of on-board CCTV footage.
- Enhanced on-train journey information for passengers.
Passengers travelling on upgraded trains will be able to identify them through on-train stickers and signage, and will also encounter a new, enhanced Wi-Fi landing page when connecting.
This pilot scheme aligns with the Scottish Government’s commitment to improving services for rural communities, with the ultimate goal of fostering community growth, repopulation, and greater resilience in these areas.
If the trial proves successful, the technology could be rolled out across the remaining Class 158 trains in the ScotRail fleet, covering other rural lines including the West Highlands, Stranraer, Dumfries, and the Borders. It is also anticipated to influence the inclusion of similar technology in the procurement of new train fleets.
Richard Lochhead MSP, the Business Minister, commented: “This technology is set to be a boost for Highland commuters and visitors, improving access to digital services – a central theme at today’s Convention of the Highlands and Islands.”
He added: “It will enable passengers to access services and apps that will make their journeys more enjoyable and more productive. As set out in last week’s Programme for Government, the Scottish Government places great emphasis on digital connectivity. It supports Scotland’s economic resilience and helps everyone, regardless of location, to access improved public services and opportunities.”
Scott Prentice, ScotRail Strategy and Planning Director, said: “The launch of this trial is fantastic news for our customers using services in the north of the country, and will have a very positive impact on their journey experience.”
“There has been a lot of hard work by our staff and our partner, Clarus Networks, to get to this point, and I am looking forward to seeing how customers interact with the new technology on our trains,” Mr Prentice continued. “The project addresses the long-standing challenges we’ve had for train connectivity in the region, and we hope it will lead to a future roll-out of the technology across other rural routes in Scotland.”
Mike Butler, Clarus Networks Director of Rail & Innovation, stated: “This project marks a major step forward in closing the digital divide for rural rail routes. By harnessing the power of Low Earth Orbit satellite technology, we’re able to deliver fast, reliable connectivity in some of the most remote parts of the UK rail network.”
“This approach helps overcome the coverage and performance limitations of traditional mobile networks – a challenge faced by rail operators globally. We’re proud to work with ScotRail and our partners to prove what’s possible and help shape the future of rail communications – improving both operational performance and the experience for passengers,” Mr Butler added.
Neil Rutherford, Scottish Futures Trust Head of Digital Connectivity, said: “This trial in the Scottish Highlands builds on our expertise of creating innovative solutions to deliver connectivity in many underserved locations across Scotland.”
“Our work is very much about considering new ways of delivering the telecoms infrastructure and mobile signal that communities and businesses regard as vital and is reflected in other groundbreaking initiatives we are currently trialling with satellites on board Orkney ferries, providing passengers with ultra-fast internet access,” Mr Rutherford concluded.
