The basic aim for the ERTMS REGIONAL concept is to enable cost saving solutions for signalling on regional and local lines when renewing or introducing signalling equipment on such lines. The ERTMS REGIONAL concept is a trackside development of specifications and systems based on the interoperable and standardised communication with the rolling stock over the air gap specified and referred to in the CCS TSI specifications. Interoperability with the ERTMS on-board equipment is thereby ensured and countries who would like to use the rolling stock on TEN lines as well as on Regional lines can operate this way.

The check of train completeness can be solved more easily on regional lines than on main lines. Project allows significant cost reductions because traditional means for train localisation in the track are no more necessary. The introduction of theGSM-Rcommunication with object controllers in the infrastructure (points, level crossing etc.) can reduce the amount of cables. Power supply to point machines is still needed.