CRRC unveils Driverless CR151 Metro Train for Singapore’s Cross Island Line

Singapore (Metro Rail Today): CRRC Corporation Ltd. has unveiled its latest six-car CR151 metro trainset for Singapore, marking a key milestone in the development of rolling stock for the upcoming Cross Island Line. The train was presented to Singapore’s Minister for Transport, Jeffrey Siow, during a visit to CRRC’s Qingdao manufacturing facility in China, highlighting the strengthening collaboration between the two sides in advanced urban transit solutions.

A mock-up of the train’s interior had earlier been showcased in Singapore, offering a preview of its passenger-centric design and modern features.

High-Capacity, Driverless Technology for Future Mobility

The CR151 trainset is designed to meet the demands of high-density urban commuting, with a total capacity of approximately 1,920 passengers. Measuring 138.5 metres in length, the train operates at a maximum speed of 90 km/h and features aluminium-bodied cars equipped with five double doors on each side, enabling faster boarding and alighting.

The trains will operate at Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4), meaning they will be fully driverless, aligning with Singapore’s vision for a highly automated and efficient metro network. In addition to automation, the trainsets will be equipped with advanced predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis systems, ensuring improved reliability and reduced downtime. Select units will also feature real-time track monitoring capabilities, further enhancing operational safety and performance.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said, “The unveiling of the CR151 trainset underscores the rapid evolution of metro rolling stock toward automation, digitalisation and high-capacity design. Driverless technologies combined with predictive maintenance systems are redefining operational efficiency and passenger experience. Such advancements set new benchmarks for future-ready metro systems across global cities.”

Part of Major Contract for Cross Island Line

The trainsets are being delivered under a significant contract awarded by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) in 2023. The SGD 589 million (approximately $440 million) contract covers the supply of 44 six-car trainsets, along with maintenance services and an option for an additional 11 units.

These trains will serve the Cross Island Line, one of Singapore’s most ambitious metro projects, scheduled to begin operations in 2030. The line is expected to significantly improve east–west connectivity across the island nation while reducing travel times and easing congestion on existing lines.

Expanding CRRC’s Presence in Singapore

CRRC’s engagement in Singapore’s rail sector continues to grow, with the company also manufacturing driverless trains for the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which is slated for completion in 2027.

The Chinese rolling stock major has a long-standing presence in Singapore, having previously supplied trains in collaboration with global players such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Alstom. More recently, trains assembled at CRRC facilities—including Alstom’s Movia metro trains and Innovia APM 300R systems—have entered service, reinforcing its role in the region’s rail ecosystem.

As Singapore continues to invest in cutting-edge rail infrastructure, the introduction of CR151 trainsets represents another step toward building a smarter, more efficient and fully automated public transport network.