Vodafone Germany, in collaboration with Ericsson, has successfully deployed multiband mobile radio antennas in the 1,400-meter-long Arlinger Tunnel near Pforzheim, marking the first operational use of Ericsson’s tunnel-optimised antennas. These antennas are part of the Ericsson Antenna System (EAS) and are specifically engineered to maintain seamless 5G coverage in challenging underground conditions, including high-pressure air shifts and vibrations from vehicles and trains.
Enhanced Underground Connectivity
As of May 9, 2025, Ericsson confirmed that five tunnel-optimised antennas are now active, providing Vodafone customers with:
- Continuous mobile reception
- Uninterrupted voice calls
- High-speed data connectivity
Advanced Design for Tunnel Environments
The newly installed antennas feature an aerodynamic cone shape to reduce wind turbulence and structural vibrations, enhancing both durability and signal stability. Supporting multiple frequency bands from 2G to 5G, the installation eliminates mobile dead zones, ensuring uninterrupted voice and data services for commuters traveling through the tunnel.
Part of a Broader 5G Expansion Strategy
This deployment is part of Vodafone’s broader strategy to extend 5G coverage across Germany, with plans to equip more tunnels with the tunnel-optimised antennas.
Ericsson’s Vision for Seamless Connectivity
Mikael Eriksson, Head of Ericsson Antenna System, emphasized the impact of this innovation. “This project showcases how advanced antenna technology can solve real-world connectivity challenges. Our tunnel antennas enable users to stay connected to 5G networks while traveling through tunnels, whether by train or on the motorway. We’re proud to support Vodafone in delivering 5G where it matters most, even in complex environments like tunnels. This is a prime example of Ericsson’s commitment to enabling high-performance mobile networks both on the surface and underground.”
