UK Launches First Pilot Using Formula 1 Tech to Boost Train Wi-Fi Speeds
A UK-first pilot project is using Formula 1 technology to improve Wi-Fi speeds on trains by combining hybrid connectivity from ground mobile masts and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. The pilot will run for 60 days starting mid-November on the Great Western Railway (GWR) Intercity Express Train in the South West, covering areas including Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset, and Torbay.
The initiative has been developed by Motion Applied in partnership with Peninsula Transport. An Ookla study highlighted that current UK train Wi-Fi speeds are slow, averaging just 1.09 Mbps, compared to 64.58 Mbps in Sweden.
Nick Fry, chair of Motion Applied and former McLaren executive, explained that the technology will seamlessly switch between ground and satellite networks to avoid dropouts, enhancing connectivity for passengers. The Department for Transport's 2025 Spending Review has allocated £41 million to enable LEO connectivity on all mainline trains by 2030.
Dan Rogerson, a board member of Peninsula Transport, described the pilot as a major milestone for regional transport modernisation. Railfuture's Bruce Williamson also welcomed the development, saying it is good news for travellers' connectivity.
