Moscow – Preparations have begun for the launch of a driverless train by the Moscow Metro.
“In the first stage, it will operate at night with a driver and without passengers,” Maksim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry said Wednesday, (19 March 2025).
“We are just starting this year on a long journey to transition the Metro to driverless operation.
“This will involve a train with a driver and no passengers.
“This is just the starting first stage of a long and challenging path, considering the high intensity of traffic.”
Liksutov said in the first stage the train will operate at night to avoid interfering with the regular metro service.
He said a specially equipped train Moskva-2020 will be used for the first stage.
The first stage of the innovative train launch is planned to begin on the Big Circle Line in 2025, as instructed by Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin.
A 5th generation (5G) technological network will be created to facilitate driverless operation on the BCL, ensuring reliable and ultra-fast communication with the infrastructure.
Liksutov said the launch of the driverless operation will be a historic event for the capital Metro.
“This innovative project has significant potential. It will serve as a platform for new technological solutions,” Liksutov.
“Our priorities are safety and maintaining the shortest peak-hour intervals in the world.
“After the BCL, we will gradually implement the technology on other lines.”
