I presume in theory it is possible to run a "foreign" locomotive on UK tracks, but what happens if you say for example operate a German electric locomotive on the WCML... How would it handle & how would the locomotive signalling safety systems [PZB etc,,,] interact with the AWS [if at all]??? Eric
a) In-game, usually they don't interact, however many trains actually have leftover scripting, usually for the very old Kuju signaling, which is in essence the UK signaling. Very old German models (from the European asset pack) generally work like UK trains. Running a quick test scenario with, I think, the Miami-WPB Dash-8 did trigger UK-style alerts on Oxford-Paddington. I didn't try, but even the NJT GP40PH-2B comes with AWS sounds, might even work. b) In reality, gauge issues aside it's generally not allowed due to incompatible safety systems indeed. There are however locos equipped with multiple systems, mostly in continental Europe. Plenty of Siemens Taurus / Vectron locos run around with four pantographs designed for 3-5 different voltages and safety systems. Every individual class is tested in each region, plus every loco runs a short test before being allowed. As for the complications, in 2021 it's much more trivial than in, say, 1960s. Back then you would need a million boxes and I specifically remember a recent post about Norfolk Southern uninstalling certain boxes so that they make room for the newest cab signaling in some veteran units (SD40?). But modern stuff is computerized, so as long as pickup equipment fits, you can have as many as you want. German and UK "in-cab signaling" is in different physical locations (mid-track / right track outside), 100% doable easily.
The only problem you might have is trains on adjacent tracks. Stations, tunnels and other structures the trains don't see and pass thru but the train has to have a structure to allow coupling so two vehicles too close will cause a side long collision. I ran this OBB 1216 from KX to Peterborough without a problem You might have a problem with some stock though with the AWS A Dutch route I downloaded has AWS magnets at it's signals and the Dutch trains just gave a Bell but the DB BR232 went in to Emergency at a Yellow without any warning sounds. Peter
