Abstract: With emerging technologies booming, digital transformation in engineering design is a must. Guided by data - driven thinking, this paper introduces a digital design platform for power distribution substations. It focuses on key challenges like data standardization, difficulties in digitizing design rules, complex interface data and low autonomy. Several core technologies have been innovatively developed, such as structured standard database, automated equipment layout and interactive foundation trench layout. Based on ODA drafting tech, the platform uses a three-tier data organization framework for substation electrical design, enhancing automation and intelligence in critical scenarios like equipment layout, and improving autonomy. Modularly designed, the platform combines functional modules for primary electrical diagram design, equipment layout and trench layout, ensuring high reusability and maintainability. Validation through practical engineering project trials demonstrates that the platform effectively increases the efficiency of electrical design for railway distribution substations and significantly reduces design time.