Sweden’s rail and transit systems are facing a generational shift in both technology and expertise. At the same time, the need for more robust, high-capacity, and modern infrastructure has never been greater. To address this, the Public Transport Administration in Region Stockholm and Prover are leading a joint initiative that aims to fundamentally change how traffic control is developed, introduced, and maintained.
Purpose and goals
The main objective of the initiative, called MBATS (Modellbaserat arbetssätt för trafikstyrning/Model-Based Approach for Traffic Control Systems), is to enable a step-by-step digital transformation of traffic control systems by introducing a cross-functional platform and working method based on modeling techniques.
By using digital twins and formal modeling techniques, the aim is to:
- improve decision-making through system-wide simulations
- increase control over cost, performance, and time during system updates
- reduce reliance on outdated, text-based, and manual processes
- create a long-term platform for safe and scalable innovation
The approach helps ensure changes can be introduced gradually, without disrupting existing infrastructure or operations. Simulations and scenario analysis enable testing of solutions before deployment, increasing confidence and lowering operational risks.
Long-term effects include:
- reduced climate impact through the reuse of existing systems
- increased rail network capacity by 20–30% through smarter analysis
- shorter lead times and reduced lifecycle costs
- enhanced collaboration across departments and suppliers
- stronger strategic control of technical assets and investments
The initiative will integrate existing modules and services from the Public Transport Administration’s IT environment to ensure compatibility and scalability. The value to the organization is stipulated through automated services to different users. New work methods are introduced step by step, together with user involvement and recollection of the challenges it entails.
Solution
The core is the introduction of new work methods and a user-friendly environment that enables structured system design, simulation, validation, and continuous improvement throughout the lifecycle of traffic control systems.
The platform supports multiple use cases: from early-stage analysis and investment planning, to operations, maintenance, and future upgrades. A major advantage is the ability to test and verify changes digitally, before they impact passengers or operations.
Background and Prover’s contribution
The innovative builds on the earlier DigiTS project, where Prover and the Public Transport Administration mapped out 20 years of digital transformation across Stockholm’s rail and metro network. The MBATS project is part of the Smart Built Environment program and directly supports its mission to accelerate the digital transformation of the built environment, with a focus on sustainable and interoperable infrastructure.
Prover leads the MBATS project and contributes with its expertise in traffic control systems, digital twin technologies, and formal methods. Prover will deliver several advanced modeling tools and the digital twin platform that is used in the solution.
These tools enable formal, traceable, and repeatable modeling of rail systems. Prover’s solutions help ensure that new configurations meet functional and safety requirements before anything is deployed.
Conclusion
Now, MBATS will integrate digital twins, rail system models, and data flows into a unified digital platform. This model-based approach allows changes to be tested and analyzed before implementation, significantly reducing lead times, costs, and risks while improving safety and system robustness.
By introducing a structured, model-based methodology for traffic control, MBATS lays the groundwork for a smarter, more sustainable, and more reliable transportation infrastructure. The results of the project will be shared with national and international stakeholders and contribute to broader industry learning and innovation.
Timeline and partners
Project start: 2025
Duration: 2 years
Partners: Region Stockholm Public Transport Administration and Prover
Funding program: Smart Built Environment
Key goal: Get in control of existing and future traffic control system
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