Alstom awarded €915 million Rolling Stock Contract for Belgrade’s First Driverless Metro Line

Belgrade, Serbia (Metro Rail Today): In a landmark development for Southeast Europe’s urban mobility landscape, Alstom has secured a €915 million turnkey contract to deliver Belgrade Metro Line 1, marking the first fully automated metro system in Serbia. The project is expected to redefine public transport in the Serbian capital by introducing a high-capacity, driverless transit solution.

The first phase of the project will connect Makiško Polje to Karaburma, spanning 15 kilometres with 15 stations, including 11 kilometres of underground tunnels. By shifting a substantial portion of daily commuting underground, the metro line aims to significantly reduce surface congestion and improve connectivity across Belgrade’s dense urban core.

Transforming Urban Mobility in Belgrade

The introduction of Metro Line 1 is being seen as a transformative step for the city, which has long relied on road-based transport. The new system is expected to enhance accessibility, reduce travel times, and support sustainable urban growth, while positioning Belgrade as a more competitive European capital for investment and development.

Alstom will act as the system integrator, delivering a comprehensive turnkey solution for Belgrade Metro & Train, the city’s public utility operator.

Commenting on the project, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said, “The adoption of fully automated metro systems reflects a global shift toward high-efficiency, technology-driven urban mobility. Projects like Belgrade Metro Line 1 highlight how cities are leveraging advanced rail systems to address congestion challenges while improving sustainability and economic competitiveness.”

Fully Automated System with Advanced Technology

Under the contract, Alstom will supply 32 Metropolis driverless trains, each consisting of three cars, along with a full suite of metro systems including signalling, telecommunications, power supply, trackwork, platform screen doors, depot equipment, and a centralized control centre.

The system will be equipped with Alstom’s Urbalis Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology, enabling Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) operations, the highest level of automation. This will allow trains to run without drivers, ensuring higher frequency, improved reliability, and enhanced safety.

The metro is designed to operate with headways as low as 90 seconds, significantly increasing passenger capacity and reducing waiting times.

The rolling stock will be manufactured at Alstom’s Valenciennes facility in France, further highlighting the international collaboration involved in the project. The contract is also supported by French government funding, underscoring strong bilateral ties between France and Serbia.

Economic and Sustainability Impact

The project is expected to play a critical role in supporting Belgrade’s long-term economic growth and climate goals by providing a reliable alternative to road-based transport. By reducing traffic congestion and lowering emissions, the metro will contribute to a more sustainable urban environment.

Andrew DeLeone, President of Alstom Europe, emphasized the project’s importance, stating that Belgrade’s decision to implement a fully automated metro reflects strong leadership and a forward-looking vision. He noted that the system will fundamentally transform how nearly two million residents navigate the city.

Global Expertise in Automated Metro Systems

Alstom brings extensive experience in delivering automated metro systems worldwide, with nearly 30 driverless lines in operation across cities such as Paris, Singapore, and Lyon. The company has delivered over 80 turnkey metro systems globally, including major projects like Riyadh Metro, Montreal REM, Grand Paris Express, and Dubai Metro Route 2020.

With the contract now awarded, Alstom has officially entered the design phase of Metro Line 1. Once completed, the project is expected to set new benchmarks in automation, efficiency, and sustainability for urban transit systems in the region.

The Belgrade Metro is poised to become a cornerstone of the city’s infrastructure, enabling faster, safer, and more efficient mobility while supporting its evolution into a modern European metropolis.