Alstom Modernizes Lyon Metro Line D: Rail Tech Boost

Alstom Awarded Major Contract to Modernise Lyon Metro Line D

Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has been awarded a significant contract by SYTRAL Mobilités to modernize Lyon’s busiest metro line, Line D. The agreement encompasses the supply of 26 new-generation automatic MPL25 metro trains, valued at 145 million euro, and the upgrade of Line D’s signalling and automation systems for 158 million euro. This project, announced on July 31, 2025, marks a crucial step in enhancing passenger experience, increasing network capacity, and promoting energy efficiency within Lyon’s public transportation infrastructure. Why is this significant? It represents a comprehensive overhaul designed to meet growing demands for sustainable urban mobility by a global player in the industry. The modernization will improve both the operation and passenger experience of this critical transportation artery.

Next-Generation Rolling Stock: The MPL25 Metro Trains

The new MPL25 trains, an evolution of Alstom’s Metropolis metro solutions, will replace the existing rolling stock on Line D, delivering enhanced passenger comfort and accessibility. Identical to the MPL16 trains currently operating on Line B, these two-car units can be configured into four-car formations, accommodating over 300 passengers per train. Their design prioritizes passenger experience, featuring large windows, open gangways between carriages, wide corridors, and spacious entry areas. Furthermore, the trains incorporate amenities like designated areas for passengers with reduced mobility, LED lighting, refrigerated ventilation, and real-time passenger information screens. The MPL25 offers a 96% recyclability rate and incorporates advanced environmental features, including a 100% electric braking system. This regenerative braking system recovers energy, feeding it back into the network, resulting in significant energy savings compared to older models such as the MPL85. These new trains are also equipped with built-in cybersecurity protection, ensuring compliance with the latest European regulations.

Advanced Signalling and Automation for Enhanced Operations

The modernization of Line D extends beyond new trains, encompassing a complete overhaul of its automatic control system. This initiative will incorporate Alstom’s Urbalis signalling solution, enabling driverless operation and significantly enhancing the line’s operational capabilities. Urbalis, a communications-based train control (CBTC) system, has been deployed on over 190 metro lines across 32 countries. The Urbalis technology is designed to enhance reliability, increase capacity, and improve energy efficiency, catering to the daily needs of 300,000 Line D passengers. This advanced signalling solution also aims to optimize operations on infrastructure without platform doors, maintaining passenger safety while simultaneously boosting operational performance. Alstom is bringing its deep expertise in CBTC technology to this critical project.

Made in France: Local Expertise and Manufacturing

The entire modernization project for Line D is being developed and designed in France, reflecting a commitment to local expertise and manufacturing. A dedicated project team is based in the Lyon metropolitan area, coordinating efforts across several Alstom sites throughout the country. The Valenciennes facility will handle train assembly, testing, and validation. The Ornans site is responsible for producing the engines, while Le Creusot will manufacture the bogies. Tarbes will focus on traction systems, and Villeurbanne will manage on-board electronics, passenger information systems, signalling equipment, cybersecurity, and operational maintenance of automated systems. The Crespin site will modernize the existing MPL85 trains to ensure compatibility with the new control system, and the Urbalis signalling solution will be developed at Saint-Ouen, Europe’s largest railway engineering centre. This localized approach underscores Alstom’s dedication to fostering technological advancement and economic growth within France.

Conclusion

The comprehensive modernization project awarded to Alstom for Lyon Metro’s Line D represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban public transportation. By providing advanced metro trains and modernizing signalling and automation, Alstom and SYTRAL Mobilités aim to transform the passenger experience and build on the city’s long-term vision for sustainable mobility. The integration of the new MPL25 trains, with their emphasis on comfort, accessibility, and energy efficiency, alongside the implementation of the Urbalis CBTC solution, will substantially increase the line’s capacity and reliability. This approach underscores the industry’s need to embrace innovations in rolling stock and signalling systems. The collaborative effort of SYTRAL Mobilités and Alstom exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to meeting the demands of a growing urban population while simultaneously promoting environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the project’s commitment to “Made in France” manufacturing underscores the strategic importance of domestic expertise and technological leadership in shaping the future of the rail industry.

Company Summary: Alstom

Alstom is a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products and services. With over 30 years of expertise in communications-based train control (CBTC) systems, Alstom is at the forefront of technological innovation. The company’s comprehensive approach addresses increasing urban mobility demands while promoting sustainable practices, driving advancements in both passenger comfort and operational efficiency. Alstom employs over 2,000 experts in digital mobility in France. Their proven track record in delivering cutting-edge railway solutions makes them a key player in shaping the future of transportation infrastructure worldwide.