What is ATO?
ATO or Automatic Train Operation, can be commonly seen in metro systems such as LRT and MRT. These metro systems run on dedicated guideways (tunnel/elevated tracks) without a driver (GoA4). At RSE, we are running ATO at GoA2 on mainline railways. Mainline operations are characterised by a variety of train types and stop patterns, long distances in an open environment (on level tracks).
| Level | Descriptions | Example of mainline railways |
|---|---|---|
| GoA0 | Driver drives on sight with no ATP | Tram in a city |
| GoA1 | No ATO. Driver in full control under the supervision of ATP | ERL, KTMB |
| GoA2 | With ATO. ATO controls driving and braking but driver can take over at any time. (Semi automatic Train Operation – STO) | SOB Switzerland |
From Level 3 onwards, the difference is more into how emergency situation is being dealt with | ||
| GoA3 | No driver is in the cab, but an attendant will be present in the train | |
| GoA4 | No driver nor attendant will be in the cab (Unattended Train Operation – UTO) | Rio Tinto |
Why ATO?
- Improving capacity
- Energy savings
- Timetable adherence
Previous:
Next expertise: