A new remote monitoring system on a train operator's stock represents the next step in its 'Intelligent Trains' programme.

Northern announced its collaboration with rolling stock provider, Porterbrook, to fit so-called remote condition monitoring (RCM) hardware to engines of trains within its Class 170 Turbostar fleet.

The hardware enables Northern engineers to be made aware of engine issues in advance of the unit arriving back at the depot, and signals less of a need to rely on manual engine checks.

RCM permits a "more predictive maintenance programme," and represents a switch "from a reactive to a preventative or condition-based approach," per Northern's press office.

The hoped-for upshot is a reduction in the number of hours spent by trains out of service for engine repairs.

The RCM system was built by Instrumentel, while the installation on the trains was carried out by Derby Engineering Unit at the Neville Hill TrainCare Centre near Leeds.

Iain Burnett, fleet director at Northern, said: "Remote and real-time monitoring of track and train is something the rail industry has been working towards over the past couple of years – and forms a central part of our Intelligent Trains programme.

"We’re delighted to be working with Porterbrook on this hardware for the Class 170 Turbostar fleet, and look forward to the real-world benefits it will bring to fleet maintenance."

Chris Beales, head of digital engineering at Porterbrook, added: "Our industry is changing, and we are waking up to the real world benefits a shift towards digital can afford us.

"This project is a prime example of how close collaboration between train operators, asset owners, and the supply chain is key to realising these benefits."

Northern bills itself as the second largest train operator in the UK, with nearly 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.