Mobile connectivity, IoT systems and a crisis management platform were among the items Swedish train operator SJ tasked Telia with delivering under a long-term agreement to boost its communications capabilities.

The operator is to provide Wi-Fi connectivity on all SJ trains travelling in Nordic territories along with those going to Germany. There is a mobile device element to the agreement too.

Telia’s IoT elements will be used to collect real-time data the operator stated would enable SJ to boost the efficiency and sustainability of its operations.

SJ CIO Henri Caddeo said the train company’s operations are already highly digitalised, making it “crucial to have a partner that can offer stable connectivity and excellent coverage throughout the country”.

Telia noted its 5G network coverage exceeds 99 per cent of the Swedish population. It brings previous experience in the transport sector in the form of a contactless payment deal signed earlier this year and last week upped the ante on its IoT capabilities.

CCO and head of B2B Fredrik Stenberg said the deal with SJ “is about reliability just as much as technology” and pledged to make good on the responsibilities the train company is placing on it.