French railway giant Alstom has begun testing driverless metro trains on the new Line 18, which will be one of the key transport axes of the Paris metropolitan area and will connect Orly Airport to Versailles. This modern transport project aims to reduce traffic congestion in the area and offer passengers a fast, comfortable and environmentally friendly alternative.
Next Generation Metropolis Train on Rails: Coming into Service in 2026
Alstom’s state-of-the-art three-car Metropolis train has arrived at the dedicated maintenance centre in Palaiseau to begin extensive testing ahead of its planned launch in the fourth quarter of 2026. This development is considered a key stage of the project and begins the countdown to the line’s entry into service.
85-Second Time Interval During Rush Hours: Will Bring Breath to Traffic
With the opening of the first phase of the new Line 18, a remarkable frequency of services will be achieved, especially during peak hours. Thanks to the short service intervals of 85 seconds, waiting times for passengers will be reduced to a minimum and the capacity of the line will be increased significantly. This will relieve the pressure on existing road traffic in the region and significantly ease transportation.
Alstom and IDFM Sign €230 Million Agreement
The important contract signed between Alstom and Île-de-France Mobilités (IDFM) in 2021, worth 230 million euros, forms the basis for the realization of these modern metro trains. The agreement, which initially covers 15 train sets, includes the option to expand to 37 units in the future. This potential expansion is of strategic importance for the line to meet future passenger demands.
The Power of French Manufacturing: Sustainability in the Forefront
The production of the new Metropolis trains is meticulously carried out at Alstom’s six different facilities in France. The final assembly of the trains is carried out at the modern facility in Valenciennes. Each train set will be 47 meters long and designed to carry up to 350 passengers at a time. The trains, which will operate at a service speed of 65 km/h, will be able to reach a maximum speed of 100 km/h. Another important detail reflecting the environmentally sensitive approach of the project is that approximately 20% of the materials used are recyclable. This feature contributes to providing a transportation solution that complies with contemporary sustainability and environmental standards.
