Abstract: The punctuality of the automatic train operation (ATO) system should be ensured under different train loads. In this paper, the influence of two different traction control strategies (maximum traction force control with current train load and maximum acceleration control with AW3 train load) on the system punctuation is studied, the interval operation times in the scenarios of maximum capacity operation and energy-efficient operation are compared. The results show that, the traction method of maximum acceleration control with AW3 train load can achieve less run time fluctuation (within 2% range), therefore satisfies the ATO system with strict punctuality requirement.