Madrid’s Line 6 is set to be upgraded to become the city’s first driverless metro line.

A contract signed between Metro de Madrid and Alstom will see the 23.5 km circle line, which has 28 stations serving over 400,000 commuters daily, enabling full automation of one of Madrid’s busiest lines.

The transition to automated operations marks a significant milestone in Madrid’s urban system, which will improve daily travel experiences for thousands of residents and visitors, while simultaneously introducing modernisation and energy efficiency to the core of Madrid’s metro network.

A new type of Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) will also need to be installed along with upgrades to the existing Alstom communications-based train control (CBTC) from Grade 2 to Grade 4 automation.

The result will allow line 6 to increase its capacity and frequency of service while running safely and reliably.

It will also allow the trains to become more evenly spaced and balance out the service, which will reduce waiting times and energy consumption when it comes to train acceleration and breaking.

“We are grateful to Metro de Madrid for their trust in our team and in our Railway Signalling Excellence Centre in Madrid to execute this iconic project that will transform and modernise Madrid’s metro system. This contract reinforces our commitment to enhance mobility for Madrid residents and visitors, by implementing state-of-the-art technology and continuous innovation. Together, we are paving the way for more sustainable and smart mobility solutions”

Leopoldo Maestu, Alstom Managing Director for Spain and Portugal.

Initially seen as a rolling stock manufacturer Alstom are certainly no strangers to designing and installing signalling systems.

They oversaw installation of one of their own signalling systems in south London last autumn, while back in Spain they announced a refurbishment of Madrid’s Citadis tram fleet.