Singapore’s LTA and SMRT Corporation have launched trial runs on the communications-based train control (CBTC) system of the North-South Line. The CBTC system will replace the existing fixed-block signalling system and is expected to reduce the minimum headway from 120 seconds to 100 seconds. The first of the 57 new trains fitted with the CBTC system has started running on the North-South Line. SMRT has also fitted the new trains with other new features such as LCD display panels and energy efficient LED lighting. All 57 trains are expected to become operational on the North-South and East-West Lines by 2019.
