Motorsport technology powers UK’s first ‘next generation’ train connectivity..
Motion Applied (formerly McLaren Applied) is proud to announce its central role in the UK’s first ‘next generation’ train connectivity initiative, delivered in partnership with Peninsula Transport, Great Western Railway (GWR), Network Rail, and Hitachi. This landmark project brings three decades of motorsport innovation to the rail sector, setting a new benchmark for digital connectivity on UK trains.
In a UK first on 17th November at Paddington Station a GWR Intercity Express Train will launch the innovative new Wi-Fi technology born out of Formula 1.
Motorsport technology, from racetrack to train track.
At the heart of this pilot is EDGE Rail, a high-speed mobile network computing platform powered by Fleet Connect™, an F1-derived software platform for high-speed connectivity. The system also leverages Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite technology. It will be showcased on Monday 17th November at Paddington Station, where the GWR Intercity Express Train will demonstrate the system’s capabilities alongside an Alpine Formula 1 car, symbolising the direct transfer of world class connectivity from track to train.
Nick Fry, Chairman of Motion Applied
Motion Applied recognised that rail networks have long struggled to provide reliable onboard Wi-Fi for passengers. We leveraged our technology originally developed for Formula 1 cars to improve connectivity on fast-moving vehicles by minimising signal dropouts and optimising performance across available cellular and satellite networks. The challenges faced in transmitting data to and from a fast-moving train have many parallels with motorsport and the application of our industry-leading data link aggregation systems specifically tailored to the unique demands of rail will provide an improved customer experience using racing technology.
Transforming the passenger experience
The pilot aims to transform the onboard digital experience for rail passengers through reliable, superfast connectivity. The hybrid architecture of both cellular and satellite connectivity will ensure the train receives a high performing and stable connection, even in areas of poor cellular network coverage. This in turn enables an enhanced onboard passenger experience, whether that be streaming video and browsing social media or making their commute more productive by working from the train.
Developed by Motion Applied, an independent UK-based and British-owned technology company, all key elements of the system have been engineered by our Woking-based team. This local design adds security and demonstrates the UK’s leadership in digital transport innovation, paving the way for scalable, resilient rail Wi-Fi across the country and beyond. The technology has already secured major customers in Europe and the USA.
A new era of rail connectivity
The EDGE platform and Fleet Connect™ work together to bring ground-breaking benefits in rail connectivity:
- Next-generation Performance: The system delivers up to 5x faster downloads, 10x faster uploads, and up to 80% fewer blackspots compared to legacy systems.
- Cable-less trains: Processing power is built directly into the antenna, eliminating the need for separate routers or cables.
- Simpler Installation: The system removes radio frequency cables and splitters, reducing costs and installation time.
- Sustainability: By streamlining hardware and boosting efficiency, the solution supports lower emissions and reduced fuel use.
The hybrid system aggregates signals from both ground-based cellular masts and low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites, ensuring uninterrupted, superfast connectivity throughout the journey, without the need for costly trackside infrastructure. This makes the solution scalable across the UK rail network and beyond.
Partner perspectives Councillor Dan Rogerson, lead member for rail on the Peninsula Transport board
This is a major milestone in our mission to modernise transport infrastructure across the South West and South Wales. It’s not just about passenger Wi-Fi, this is about a whole new digital backbone for our transport networks.
Andy Jasper, Chief Executive Officer of the Eden Project in Cornwall
We are so grateful Peninsula Transport is putting the South West back on track with this much needed initiative. There has never been a better time to travel sustainably with fast reliable Wi-Fi. This will open new opportunities for work and leisure, help boost tourism and business, and link world class attractions like the Eden Project to the rest of the country. It’s a huge step forward in strengthening future prosperity and the reputation of the great western world class destinations.
Supporting national digital ambitions
This pilot comes at a crucial time, with the Department for Transport investing in eliminating mobile blackspots and rolling out new 4G/5G infrastructure at key stations. With an additional £41 million secured for satellite connectivity on all mainline trains by 2030, Motion Applied’s technology is set and ready to play a central role in delivering the UK’s vision for a fully connected, always-on rail experience.