Hitachi Rail, Adif & Seville Port: Rail Tech Boosts Spain Freight

Introduction

Hitachi Rail has been awarded a contract by Adif to provide signalling and telecommunications systems for the new rail access to the Port of Seville. The project aims to enhance the port’s logistics efficiency and reinforce its position within the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

Project Scope

The contract encompasses the installation of signalling and communication systems for a new 2,485-metre branch line designated for freight traffic. This new line will bypass the commuter rail stations, establishing a direct connection between the Guadaíra River railway bridge and the La Negrilla freight terminal.

Strategic Importance

As Spain’s sole inland maritime port, the Port of Seville is strategically positioned in national and international logistics. It facilitates connections between southern Spain and key corridors to Madrid, Bilbao, Extremadura, Córdoba, Valencia, and the Portuguese port of Sines. The new line will enhance operational flexibility and increase freight capacity, enabling direct access for trains of any length and load.

Technical Specifications

Hitachi Rail will install new track circuits, axle counters, and electromechanical point machines to ensure high performance and reliability. The project also includes upgrades to the traffic control systems. Software updates and interlocking modifications will be implemented at both the Local Operations Centre and the Centralised Traffic Control (CTC) Centre located at Seville Santa Justa station to accommodate the new operational setup.

Industry Impact

According to Adolfo Aguilar, Sales Director of Hitachi Rail Spain, the contract is “key to strengthening freight operations at the Port of Seville and Andalusia.” He emphasized Hitachi Rail’s experience and technological capability in adapting infrastructure for efficient freight traffic within logistics terminals and inland port networks connected to the national rail system. Hitachi Rail has previously undertaken technological projects at the Port of Seville. This new contract is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Conclusion

Hitachi Rail will deliver signalling and telecommunications systems for the new rail access to the Port of Seville under a contract awarded by Adif. The project includes a 2,485-metre freight line and upgrades to existing systems to increase operational efficiency and capacity. The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: A provider of railway systems, including signaling and telecommunications, that has been awarded a contract by Adif for the Port of Seville project.

Adif: Spain’s railway infrastructure manager, which awarded the contract to Hitachi Rail.

Port of Seville: Spain’s only inland maritime port, strategically positioned for national and international logistics.

Technology

TEN-T: Trans-European Transport Network.

CTC: Centralised Traffic Control.

ERDF: European Regional Development Fund.