- UK has started testing on-board Wi-Fi connectivity using satellites
- The trial is being carried out on a GWR line in the South West
- This could increase internet speeds on trains and improve reliability
British trains aren’t exactly known for their excellent Wi-Fi connectivity, but that could change in the near future thanks to a new project inspired by Formula 1 racing. If successful, the plan could increase the speed of Wi-Fi on trains and provide a more reliable connection for passengers on board.
As reported by the BBC, a new pilot project will equip a Great Western Railway (GWR) train with a combined connection system that will use both ground-based telephone towers and unknown satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) to provide internet to passengers.
The project is being managed by UK technology company Motion Applied in collaboration with Peninsula Transport, which is the transport body for Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay.
The pilot project began in mid-November, will last 60 days and will be tested on GWR’s Intercity Express train which operates in the South West. The hope is to increase internet speeds from the current paltry average of 1.09 Mbps.
According to internet networking company Ookla, the UK ranks 16th out of 18 major European and Asian countries for train Wi-Fi speeds – by comparison, Sweden averages 64.58 Mbps.
Inspired by Formula 1
The inspiration for moving the satellite apparently came from Formula 1, where reliable connections between drivers and teams are of paramount importance. Borrowing technology from racing cars, trains should be able to switch between telephone towers and satellites while maintaining a reliable connection.
It is not immediately clear which satellite networks will be used for the project. British company OneWeb is one of the competitors, as is Starlink – the latter company has been linked to other UK rail lines, although no word has emerged that it will provide Wi-Fi for the GWR trial. We asked Motion Applied which satellite network would be used, but the company said, “We are unable to disclose this at this time.” »
Earlier in 2025, the UK Department for Transport secured £41 million to bring LEO satellite connectivity to all mainline trains by 2030. If this target is met, the days of slow and spotty internet when you ride the rails could finally be numbered.
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