Interview with Dusan Klago on the Goals and Achievements of the R2DATO Project
Introduction: As cities across Europe and indeed around the world move toward smarter and more sustainable public transport systems, UITP and its members are helping to lead this transition. One of the most significant initiatives in this field is the Rail to Digital Automated up to Autonomous Train Operation (FP2-R2DATO) project, a flagship undertaking of Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking. This project plays a critical role in exploring how data, automation and artificial intelligence can transform rail operations and make public transport more efficient, safe and sustainable. As a valued UITP member, Sporveien Trikken, the operator of Oslo’s tram network, is contributing its expertise and practical experience to this collaborative European effort.
To illustrate how R2DATO is advancing the development of automated and autonomous tram technologies, we had the following written interview with Dusan Klago, Head of the Project Office at Sporveien Trikken. In this interview, he explains how Sporveien Trikken is integrating automation into its depots, ensuring the highest standards of safety and cybersecurity, within the context of the shared goals of the R2DATO project.
Question: What role does Sporveien Trikken see itself playing within the R2DATO project, and how does this align with your broader strategy for public transport in Oslo?
Sporveien Trikken plays a multifunctional role in the R2DATO project as both an operational partner and provider of the demonstrator site. Our contribution centres on integrating autonomous and remote-control technologies into real-world tram operations, starting with depot environments. This aligns with our broader strategy to modernise Oslo’s public transport system by enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability and contributing to digitalisation and automatisation of Oslo traffic. The project supports our long-term vision of a smart, data-driven transport network that meets future mobility needs while maintaining the high standards of service our passengers expect.
Question: Safety is highlighted as a key motivation. How are you ensuring that autonomous and remote-control systems meet the same (or higher) safety standards as with a driver in the tram’s cab?
We are implementing a multi-layered safety framework that includes rigorous testing protocols, real-time monitoring, and fallback systems. All autonomous and remote-control operations are benchmarked against existing safety standards, and in many cases, exceed them. Every system is validated under realistic operating conditions. Additionally, we involve experienced tram drivers in testing to ensure operational realism and to identify edge cases that automated systems must handle. Many different mitigations are introduced during the testing to eliminate existing and often new risks.
Question: The project involves extensive data collection and machine learning. How is that data being used, and what kind of insights are you already seeing?
The data collected via sensors, cameras, and onboard systems is being used for machine learning models, especially for object and signal recognition and reaction in different situations (use cases). Early insights show promising good results in obstacle detection and signal and road signs recognition. This data is foundational for developing driver assistance systems and future autonomous capabilities.
Question: Relating to the previous question, when it comes to data storage and machine learning, cybersecurity has become a salient topic. In the context of the R2DATO project, how vital is cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is an absolutely important issue here. Autonomous and remote-control systems rely on real-time data exchange, which must be protected against unauthorised access and manipulation. We’ve implemented robust encryption protocols, data anonymisation and access controls. Our cybersecurity strategy is aligned with EU standards, and a Data Protection Impact Assessment was prepared prior to all activities involving data. A DPIA is a comprehensive and systematic process which aims to effectively identify, asses and tackle risks to data privacy and security. Moreover, a data management agreement was signed with all parties participating in data collection, management and processing. Protecting passenger data, operational integrity, and system reliability is central to our deployment roadmap.
Question: From the perspective of an individual passenger, how does the R2DATO project impact on the user experience?
For passengers, the R2DATO project promises a smoother, safer, and more reliable journey. Autonomous systems can optimise acceleration, braking, and stop alignment, improving comfort and punctuality. Remote operations allow for quicker responses to disruptions and more flexible fleet management.
In this initial phase, called “Wave 1” under Europe’s Rail Multi-Annual Action Plan (MAAP) the focus is centred on testing autonomous technologies in depots and controlled environments before adding the element of passenger service. This step-by-step approach allows for systems to be validated safely before moving forward to phases that will include passenger operations.
Question: The project’s roadmap shows a progression from depot autonomy to commercial service. What are the biggest obstacles you see on the path to real passenger-facing autonomous operations, not only in Norway, but Europe and indeed the World?
The biggest challenges are regulatory harmonisation, public acceptance (to get used to not seeing drivers in the cabins), and technological maturity. Legal frameworks across Europe vary, and achieving cross-border interoperability is complex. Public trust must be earned through transparency and proven safety. Technologically, edge-case handling and real-time decision-making remain areas of active development. Sporveien is committed to addressing these challenges through collaboration, testing, and stakeholder engagement.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinion expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. The project FP2-R2DATO is supported by the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking and its members.
