Moscow Tests First Driverless Metro Train
Moscow's metro is testing its first fully automated train on the Big Circle Line, using RFID tags for precise positioning and aiming to launch fully driverless operations by 2030. Meanwhile, Russian Railways is exploring automated train deployment on new routes with a transitional phase involving onboard supervisors.
Consensus
- The first driverless train in Russia is being tested on the Big Circle Line of Moscow's metro.
- RFID tags are used to enable precise positioning and automatic stopping of the train within 30 centimeters.
- The RFID tags are installed on all 29 stations of the Big Circle Line.
- The train is currently operated with a driver in the cab for safety and legal reasons.
- Testing has included over 4,000 kilometers of unmanned travel by a Moscow-2024 model train without passengers.
- The Moscow Metro is developing all software for autonomous operation in-house.
- The goal is to make the Big Circle Line fully driverless by 2030.
- The first passenger-carrying runs are expected to begin in 2027.
- By 2026, the driverless train will begin operating in the regular schedule with other trains, still without passengers.
Points of divergence
- The Moscow Metro plans to launch fully driverless operation on the Big Circle Line by 2030, with all 94 trains automated. — vm
- Russian Railways is considering deploying automated trains on new routes with a transitional phase where a driver remains in the cab, and plans to move to full automation (UA 4 level) with remote control from a dispatch center. — kommersant
- The Moscow Metro's automated train system includes machine vision, path monitoring, and dispatching control as part of the testing. — vm
- Russian Railways is testing UA 4 technology, which allows full remote control from a dispatch center, with the operator role evolving into 'driver-operator'. — kommersant
Coverage (2 sources)
- Path marker will indicate: how the unmanned train works in the metro — Вечерняя Москва
- In RZD they are discussing the launch of unmanned trains on new routes — Коммерсантъ