Moscow Tramway Driverless Revolution: Autonomous LRV Expansion

Moscow entered the autonomous transport era with the launch of its first driverless light rail vehicle on Line 10. This technological innovation, developed by Moscow Metro's teams, marks the beginning of an ambitious program to automate the entire transport network by 2035.

World First: Autonomous Vehicle Enters Commercial Service

Historic Launch on Line 10

The autonomous vehicle now operates between Shchukinskaya metro station and Kulakova Street in northwest Moscow. This Line 10 section becomes the stage for a technological revolution that could inspire other global metropolises.

8,000 Kilometers of Incident-Free Testing

Before entering service, the vehicle completed over 8,000 kilometers of rigorous testing phases. These comprehensive trials proceeded without a single incident, demonstrating the reliability and safety of the autonomous system developed by Moscow engineers.

Human Supervision Maintained

In compliance with local regulations, a staff member remains onboard to monitor the vehicle's operation. This additional safety measure ensures a smooth transition toward fully autonomous operation.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Moscow Innovation Serving Autonomy

Locally Developed Proprietary System

Moscow Metro's technical teams designed and developed all onboard technologies, demonstrating local expertise in railway innovation.

Key Autonomous System Components

The vehicle integrates several advanced technologies:

• Sophisticated sensors for environmental perception
• Computer vision enabling visual interpretation of surroundings
• High-precision mapping providing detailed navigation data
• Localization tools for exact positioning
• Trajectory planning software managing vehicle movements
• Anti-slip systems ensuring optimal traction

Complete Operational Capabilities

The autonomous system enables the vehicle to perform all necessary operations:

• Stopping at designated points with millimeter precision
• Automatic door opening and closing
• Traffic light compliance
• Pedestrian priority to enhance urban safety
• Navigation through complex intersections
• Automated track changes
• Strict adherence to Line 10 schedules

Ambitious Expansion: Toward a Fully Autonomous Fleet

Staged Deployment

Moscow authorities have developed a progressive deployment plan spanning over a decade.

Short-term Goals (End of 2025)

Three additional vehicles will be equipped with autonomous systems before year-end, quadrupling the automated fleet.

Medium-term Vision (2030 Horizon)

More than 300 vehicles – approximately two-thirds of the total fleet – should be converted to autonomous operation. This massive transformation demonstrates Moscow's resolute commitment to automation.

Long-term Perspective (2035 Horizon)

Around 90% of the city's light rail vehicles will operate without drivers, creating a nearly fully autonomous network.

Beyond Trams: Global Automation of Moscow Transport

Comprehensive Urban Mobility Strategy

The autonomous vehicle project fits into a broader approach to introduce Automatic Train Operation (ATO) across Moscow.

Russia's First Autonomous Metro in Preparation

This December, the city will launch the pilot phase of Russia's first driverless metro on the Big Circle Line. These overnight trials, without passengers, will use a Moskva series train to validate the system before commercial deployment.

Context & Challenges

This technological revolution addresses several major urban challenges. Automation optimizes service regularity, reduces operational costs, and improves transport safety. Moscow, with its 12 million inhabitants, relies on these innovations to maintain its global metropolis status while meeting growing urban mobility needs.

What Changes for Users

Passengers already benefit from increased punctuality and more regular service on Line 10. Eventually, widespread automation should enable higher frequencies, extended hours, and reduced human error incidents.