Lille Metro

This line, opened in 1983, was the world’s first fully automated – i.e. driverless – light metro. It covers a total distance of 13.5km and has 18 stations. Driverless operation enables the trains to run 66 seconds apart during rush hour. However, since 2010, in light of rising demand, this frequency is no longer sufficient.

It was therefore decided to double the length of the trains (to 52m instead of 26m), both by coupling existing trains and by sourcing new generation rolling stock. In addition to replacing the equipment directly involved in fully-automated management, this project provides an opportunity to upgrade compliance on a number of systems (centralised control station, GTC, energy, communication network, ventilation, smoke extraction, fire safety, sliding doors, etc.) and the line’s 18 stations (creation of new entrances, improvements to platform layout, etc.).

Lastly, the operation also includes an extension of the maintenance centre and sidings.

A genuine technical challenge for the world’s first automated metro modernisation project to be carried out without interrupting the traffic!

Transport System de & Infrastructure project management: EGIS & SYSTRA

Photo: Lille Metro – © EGIS – F. GENÊTE