The President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, has presented the first of 48 new automated trains destined to operate across the city’s Metro Line 6 from 2027.
Currently under renovation, the line will soon become the first to utilise fully automated technology across the entire network, with testing set to begin later this summer.
Thus far, more than 531 million EUR has been allocated to the project, which is expected to increase overall transport capacity by up to 70%, as well as increase service frequency to every two minutes.
Manufactured by CAF, the first trains set to run on the line have now completed production and industrial validation phases, including the initial dynamic tests carried out by the company.
All units will now begin testing under real-world operating conditions in order to evaluate performance, confirm integration with infrastructure and ensure the correct functioning of the new signalling, communications, and control systems that will be incorporated into Line 6.
These initial tests will be carried out on lines 10, 11 and 12, and are expected to allow for the analysis of parameters related to the safety, reliability, dynamic performance, comfort, and interoperability of the entire rail system. Once current renovation works are concluded, testing will begin on line 6 itself.
The 48 new trains will consist of six cars, measure in at over 109 metres in length, and be capable of carrying up to 1,385 passengers – 17% more than the current models. Top speeds will be increased by 33% to 110km per hour, and interiors will be characterised by wide aisles and the absence of a traditional driver’s cab.
With two units fully completed and two in advanced staged of production; production of the remaining trains will continue, with each planned to be transported by road.
Elsewhere, the metro company is progressing with the installation of new platform screen doors at each of the 28 stations along line 6 – which is also known as the Circular line.
Other works at platforms along the line include complete renovations of platform pavements using more resistant and durable materials, the installation of tactile paving to facilitate orientation for visually impaired people, and the correction of the existing difference in level between the train and the platform.
All of the above works will be carried out overnight, with additional enhancements set to include stainless steel and safety glass partitions at the ends of the platforms to complete the enclosure and provide the necessary technical spaces for the operation of the new infrastructure.
