Project Profile: Copenhagen’s Cityringen (M3) Automated Metro

The Cityringen (M3) line is a fully automated, driverless circular metro line in Copenhagen, Denmark, designed to significantly enhance urban mobility and connectivity. As a benchmark for modern automated transit, the project integrated state-of-the-art CBTC signalling and advanced rolling stock into a dense urban environment. This profile examines the core technical specifications and strategic outcomes of this landmark infrastructure project.

Technical Specifications

Route, Tunnelling, and Stations

The Cityringen M3 line consists of a 15.5 km twin-tunnel circular route constructed beneath Copenhagen’s central districts. The tunnelling process utilized four Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs)—named Eva, Minerva, Nora, and Tria—to excavate two parallel tunnels with an internal diameter of 4.9 meters at depths varying from 20 to 35 meters. The project includes 17 underground stations, constructed primarily using the cut-and-cover method, which provide interchange points with existing S-train and regional rail services. The station design features island platforms approximately 19 meters below ground, equipped with full-height platform screen doors for enhanced safety and climate control.

Rolling Stock and Signalling System

The line operates with a fleet of driverless trains supplied by Hitachi Rail Italy (formerly Ansaldo). Each train has a maximum capacity of 314 passengers and is designed for high-frequency, 24/7 service. The core of the line’s automated operation is a Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, which enables unattended train operation (UTO Grade of Automation 4). This system allows for minimal headways between trains, maximizing line capacity. The entire network, including train movements, power supply, and station systems, is monitored and managed from a central operations and maintenance centre using a sophisticated SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system.

Key Takeaways

• Benchmark for Automated Metro Systems: The successful implementation of a fully automated, driverless CBTC system in a dense, historic urban core serves as a critical case study for cities worldwide planning similar transit upgrades.
• Enhanced Urban Integration and Connectivity: The project’s design prioritised seamless integration with Copenhagen’s existing transport network, establishing key interchanges that dramatically improve city-wide accessibility and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
• Complex Project Management Showcase: Cityringen’s on-time delivery highlights the effective management and coordination of a large international consortium of civil engineering, technology, and design firms, demonstrating best practices in risk mitigation for large-scale infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Copenhagen Cityringen Metro open?

The Cityringen (M3) metro line officially opened to the public in September 2019. The construction phase for this major infrastructure project began in 2011.

Who built the Cityringen Metro?

The Cityringen Metro was developed by Metroselskabet. The primary civil engineering work was carried out by the Copenhagen Metro Team (CMT), a joint venture including Webuild (formerly Salini Impregilo). The automated trains and the CBTC signalling system were supplied by Hitachi Rail Italy (formerly Ansaldo).