Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The capital continues to implement driverless technologies in public transport. Three more trams will be equipped with them by the end of this year, and 11 more by 2026. As a result, by the end of 2026, 15 driverless trams will be operating in the capital. According to the transport development strategy approved by Sergei Sobyanin, two-thirds of Moscow's trams will be driverless by the end of 2030.
Russia's first driverless tram is based on the 71-911EM "Lvenok-Moscow" model. This innovative vehicle combines cutting-edge technology and intelligent solutions to perform driver functions. Its development is the result of work by the team at the Moscow Transport Advanced Development Center, which was opened by Sergei Sobyanin in Kuntsevo in May 2024.
Specialists have created a unique tram control system that takes into account all the numerous technical characteristics and Moscow weather conditions. It guarantees maximum reliability and ride comfort, as well as accurate schedule adherence. The equipment processes information from all vehicle systems and makes decisions based on a multitude of predefined control rules regarding travel on specific route sections, speed selection, and the creation of a smooth trajectory.
All road elements, including stops, pedestrian crossings, turnouts, roads, tram tracks, and more, are displayed on a high-precision route map consisting of two parts—a lidar map, which allows the tram's position to be determined in space, and a vector map.
Thanks to Vehicle-to-Everything technology—secure wireless communication with other road users and transport infrastructure—the vehicle can receive data on current traffic signals. A sensor system, including cameras, radars, and lidars, enables real-time analysis of the road situation and predicts the maneuvers of other road users.
Innovative solutions developed for the launch of the country's first driverless tram have already received a number of prestigious national and international awards, including the Digital Leaders Award 2025 and Priority: Digital 2025 (Artificial Intelligence).
The next stage in the development of driverless urban transport will be metro trains. In December 2025, Russia's first driverless train will begin test operations on the Big Circle Line (BCL). During the tests, a driver will be present in the cabin to monitor the system's operation and ensure safety.
By the end of 2026, a metro train capable of operating in driverless mode, taking into account Moscow's typical 90-second intervals during peak hours, will be ready.
Earlier, the Moscow Government approved the capital's draft budget for 2026–2028, the document was submitted to the Moscow City Duma.
The draft budget is based on the city's strategic plans for economic, infrastructure, and social development through 2030.
The main focus is on the implementation of 13 state programs. These include social support for residents, development of the transportation system, education, healthcare, the digital environment, and innovation. Specifically, the total expenditure on developing Moscow's transportation system in 2026 will be approximately 1.3 trillion rubles.
Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAXAnd Telegram.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.