LS telcom UK has published a new report that explores various methods of improving digital connectivity for rail passengers in the UK.

The research report was commissioned by the Rail Safety and Standards Board on behalf of the Future Communications and Positioning Systems Advisory Group.

It proposes a three-to-five-year technology roadmap and identifies a number of commercial deployment models that could enhance mobile internet connectivity for rail commuters, as well as facilitate more efficient passenger and freight train operations.

"It will inform the rail and digital industries on improving digital connectivity, mobile and broadband, across all of Britain’s rail network for the benefit of rail customers."

The study suggests that the successful enhancement of internet connectivity depends on the type of business model being implemented by the train operating companies to fulfil the UK Department for Transport’s (DfT) connectivity requirements.

The Future Connected Rail Stakeholder Forum (FCRSF) and Future Connected Train and Customer Communications Steering Group (FCTCCSG), which are collaborations between Network Rail, Rail Delivery Group and techUK, requested the study in order to improve cross-industry involvement in the implementation of digital connectivity across the rail network.

Rail Delivery Group official Nick Wilson said: “This work has helped us to identify the range of technical and commercial options available.

“It will inform the rail and digital industries on improving digital connectivity, mobile and broadband, across all of Britain’s rail network for the benefit of rail customers and the train operating companies, freight operating companies and rolling stock companies.”

In addition, the DfT has also collaborated with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport to a call for evidence on ‘Commercial options for delivering mobile connectivity on trains’, as part of a separate development.