Icomera, the leading provider of wireless Internet solutions for trains, has today announced an 11 million Euro contract with leading Scandinavian train operator, SJ, to equip its fleet with Icomera's Wireless Onboard Internet Service. The deal consists of Icomera delivering their Intercity Edition for the current X2000 train type and Commuter Edition for the new X40 fleet; and will also mark the roll out of Icomera's 3G/Satellite-enabled Wi-Fi service - a world first for the rail industry.
SJ plans to roll out Icomera's Wireless Onboard Internet Solution on its fleet of 85 trains during Summer 2005, enabling its Intercity and Commuter passengers to surf the Internet and check emails at broadband speeds, with guaranteed 100% connectivity. The deal represents the first full fleet roll out by a train operator of an onboard wireless Internet service and the world's first implementation of 3G/Satellite -enabled Wi-Fi service. Another Icomera customer, GNER, is currently testing the 3G system on its East Coast route in the UK.
The new SJ service "Internet on Track" takes advantage of new 3G infrastructure and Wi-Fi technology to increase bandwidth and improve the customer experience travelling onboard a train or while waiting a the station
Michael Johansson, CEO, Icomera comments: "This deal cements Icomera's position as the leader in this field. Since launching the first commercial broadband Internet service onboard a train in 2003, Icomera has continued to innovate and offer train operators and their customers a comprehensive wireless Internet solution. I'm delighted that SJ, a train operator that focuses on delivering pioneering new services to their customers, has selected the Icomera solution and is now able to benefit from the increased bandwidth that the 3G service brings.
Jan Forsberg, CEO, SJ, comments. "In awarding the tender, we were very impressed with Icomera's system and expertise in onboard wireless Internet solutions. The new Internet service will not only improve the SJ customer experience on our X2000 fleet but will be an integrated part of our commuter service offering on our new X40 fleet, to be introduced during 2005."
Icomera's Wireless Onboard Internet solution utilises mobile networks and satellite technology to provide passengers and train personnel with high-speed and reliable Internet connectivity while onboard. The company provides train operators with a complete end-to-end service, from the provision of the technology and installation to negotiation with mobile operators and consultancy on certification and regulatory issues. Icomera is committed to investing in new technologies to ensure that the WiFi user on-train experience improves year on year, as has been seen in traditional Internet bandwidth development. Further developments will be announced in the first half of 2005.
