In the pursuit of a digitally connected and sustainable transport landscape, the GUIDE project emerges as an example of innovation and collaboration. Supported by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital Programme, this ambitious initiative aims to revolutionise connectivity along major transport paths across the European Union (EU) assisting the deployment of 5G Corridors. Now, with the launch of a new interactive map available on the GUIDE website here, stakeholders can gain valuable insights into the various CEF projects spanning the EU.
Under the leadership of the GUIDE consortium, which includes key stakeholders from various sectors, including R&D and public affairs, the project leverages the expertise and support of ERTICO, notably through the contributions of Coen Bresser, I&D Senior Manager, in developing the Strategic Deployment Agenda (SDA). This strategic roadmap plays a critical role in guiding the implementation of 5G infrastructure along European transport corridors, aligning with the objectives of the CEF Digital Programme.
The CEF Digital Programme, with a budget of up to €800 million over the period 2021-2027, funds projects aimed at providing seamless 5G coverage along key transport routes, including roads, railways, and waterways. These projects focus on deploying 5G infrastructure and determining strategies for achieving new coverage, with co-funding rates ranging from 30% to 70% depending on project nature and type. Moreover, 5G-MOBIX, an H2020 project coordinated by ERTICO’s manager Coen Bresser, has already benefited from European funds and paved the way for other cross-border CCAM testing initiatives.
By establishing 5G corridors that meet stringent service requirements for transport safety and digital rail operations, the CEF programme aims to deliver uninterrupted coverage, ensuring high-quality connectivity across the entire corridor. These corridors utilise pioneer 5G bands such as 700 MHz, 3.6 GHz, and 26 GHz, alongside bands like 5.9 GHz ITS band and 900 MHz and 1900 MHz FRMCS bands, to support safety-related operations and multi-application 5G services.
Projects funded under the 5G coverage along European transport corridors Call are tasked with creating corridors that cross national borders and are part of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The infrastructure deployed will serve as a key enabler for connected and automated mobility (CAM), enhancing safety and non-safety services while fostering the digitalisation of rail operations and inland waterways.
These collaborative efforts have culminated in the launch of a new interactive map now available on the GUIDE website here. This tool offers stakeholders valuable perspectives on the diverse range of CEF projects across the EU, detailing GUIDE’s Call 1 projects and illustrating the expected effects of rolling out 5G cross-border corridors on the sustainable and digital advancement of the EU economy and society.
