Paris Metro Line 13: Siemens CBTC GoA4 Upgrade 2027

Siemens wins Line 13 CBTC contract

RATP has awarded Siemens Mobility the contract for complete automation of Paris metro Line 13. This project involves installing a CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) system enabling GoA4 (Grade of Automation 4) operation, providing fully driverless automated service.

The project covers onboard equipment for 66 trains, operations control center modernization, and staff training. The contract value was not disclosed, but continues RATP's network modernization investments.

Automation objectives

The GoA4 upgrade targets three main goals:

• Capacity increase: reduced train headways
• Improved reliability: optimized automatic train control
• Energy consumption reduction: optimized speed profiles

Technical characteristics

Line 13 ranks among RATP network's busiest routes with 24km of track, 32 stations, and over 550,000 daily passengers. It serves areas from Châtillon-Montrouge in the southwest to La Fourche, where it splits into two branches toward Les Courtilles and Saint-Denis-Université.

CBTC system architecture

The new Siemens system will integrate:

• Next-generation CBTC with continuous radio communication
• ATO (Automatic Train Operation) in full GoA4 mode
• Onboard equipment on 66 trainsets (Alstom rolling stock)
• Modernized control center for centralized supervision

Implementation timeline

Deployment will run from 2027 to end-2032 following a coordinated schedule:

2027: New Alstom trains delivery and CBTC work begins
2028-2030: Progressive installation of trackside and onboard equipment
2031-2032: Testing, commercial service launch, and operational training

The contract includes a 30-year maintenance option, ensuring long-term system sustainability.

Passenger impact

GoA4 automation will enable real-time service adaptation to passenger demand. Expected benefits include:

• Enhanced frequencies during peak hours (estimated: 2min30 to 2min headways)
• Increased punctuality through automatic train control
• Real-time passenger information onboard trains
• Reduced waiting times through optimized connections

This modernization supports RATP's Paris metropolitan network digitalization strategy.

Siemens expertise on Paris network

Siemens Mobility brings proven experience on Paris metro. The company previously automated Lines 1 and 4, and upgraded Line 14's system during its Orly Airport extension.

According to Marc Ludwig, CEO Siemens Mobility Rail Infrastructure: "With Line 14, we achieved a world first by upgrading an existing driverless system to advanced CBTC GoA4 technology. With Line 13, we're building on this expertise."

Line 14 now carries up to 1 million daily passengers with headways reduced to 1min25 during peaks, demonstrating Siemens solution efficiency.