Test runs of the first of 48 new automated trains from the Spanish manufacturer CAF for Metro Madrid have begun. In future, these trains will operate on Metro Line 6, the circular route and the busiest line in the entire network, carrying more than 400,000 passengers each day. The tests are currently taking place at CAF’s test centre, the manufacturer’s specialised facility in Corella, Navarre, where this type of rolling stock is being validated ahead of its planned entry into service in 2027.
The second unit is due to arrive there in June, while the first two trainsets – each consisting of six cars – will be transferred to Madrid from July onwards in order to continue testing on the Madrid Underground network.
The procurement of these 48 trains represents an investment of 531.2 million euros and forms one of the regional government’s strategic projects for the full automation of Line 6. Production is taking place at CAF’s factories in Beasain and Irún, where assembly of the subsequent units is also progressing.
Before entering service, the trains must undergo a comprehensive technical testing programme to ensure the flawless operation of all systems and their integration with the infrastructure and facilities along the route. The first two units are being tested at the Corella test centre, while the remaining trains will be tested directly on Metro Madrid premises.
Following their arrival in the region, the new trains will be distributed across various depots operated by the transport company. From there, night-time test runs in manual mode will begin on Lines 10, 11 and 12. Subsequently, once the necessary technical adaptation works have been completed, testing will continue on Line 6 itself, which by then will already be operating automatically.
More Capacity – more comfort
The automation of Line 6 will increase capacity and reduce headways to two minutes, thereby improving traffic flow and the efficiency of services on one of the capital’s most important transport corridors.
The new trains will be 20% more energy-efficient and capable of speeds of up to 110 km/h, 33% faster than the current fleet. Thanks to the removal of the driver’s cab and the introduction of fully open gangways between the cars, they will also offer up to 17% more space for passengers.
Each unit will accommodate 1,385 passengers, including 165 seated passengers, and will feature areas for passengers with reduced mobility, dedicated spaces for bicycles and pushchairs, as well as advanced acoustic and visual passenger information systems.
The trains will also be equipped with air conditioning, CCTV and charging points for mobile devices, alongside new accessibility features such as induction loops for hearing aid users. The design will retain Metro’s corporate identity, with predominantly white livery and blue doors for optimum recognition and visibility.
The circular Line 6 was partially closed for several months during 2025 in preparation for fully automated operation. Installation of platform screen doors is now continuing while services remain in operation.
We most recently reported on the automation project here:
https://www.urban-transport-magazine.com/en/design-unveiled-madrids-first-driverless-metro-trains/
