Alstom Delivers State-of-the-Art Driving Simulator for Bucharest’s Metro Line 5
Alstom, a global leader in sustainable and smart mobility solutions, has taken a significant step towards ensuring the safe and efficient operation of Bucharest’s new Metro Line 5. The company has delivered a cutting-edge driving simulator to Metrorex, the operator of the city’s metro system, as part of the Line 5 rolling stock contract.
This advanced simulator, equipped with cutting-edge virtual reality technology, provides a realistic training environment for future metro drivers and operational technicians. Installed at Metrorex’s facility at the Valea Ialomitei station on Line 5, the simulator offers a comprehensive training platform, replicating key elements of the metro infrastructure and rolling stock through Virtual Reality, creating a “Digital Twin” for training purposes.
The simulator is a faithful replica of the driver’s cabin from Alstom’s Metropolis trains, specifically designed for Line 5. It accurately mirrors the features of Line 5, incorporating digital models of stations, platforms, signals, and essential equipment such as beacons and radio access points. This ensures that trainees experience a realistic representation of their future operating environment.
Elevating Safety and Efficiency with CBTC Technology
Line 5 marks a significant milestone for Bucharest’s metro system, as it is the first line in the city and Romania to implement the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system. This advanced technology enables a 90-second headway between trains, leading to increased capacity and operational efficiency.
Alstom is a global leader in the CBTC market, with its innovative urban signaling solutions in use on 180 lines worldwide. The integration of CBTC on Line 5, combined with the new Alstom trains equipped with onboard CBTC units, will further enhance safety and efficiency for the metro line.
Training Future Drivers with Alstom’s Expertise
Metrorex is utilizing this advanced simulator to train its instructors, who will then pass on their expertise to drivers and technicians in preparation for the start of passenger services. During training sessions, instructors can simulate various traffic scenarios and foresee potential operational challenges, ensuring that future operators are prepared for any situation they may encounter.
“At Alstom, safety is our utmost concern, and it’s integrated into every stage of our design process to enhance passenger experience,” says Gabriel Stanciu, Alstom Managing Director for Romania, Bulgaria and Moldova. “With the technological advancements available today, we’re able to create a secure learning environment for future drivers and technicians, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to operate the latest generation of rolling stock responsibly.”
Alstom’s commitment to comprehensive training is evident in the intensive training program that six instructors are currently undergoing with Alstom specialists to become certified in training future drivers. This program equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to train a new generation of metro operators.
Alstom’s Legacy of Innovation
Alstom boasts the most comprehensive range of driving simulators globally, having installed over 125 systems at client sites worldwide. Alstom’s simulators stand out by offering a fully immersive experience with an avatar, allowing a ‘first person’ perspective that extends beyond driving. Trainees can simulate activities like exiting the cabin, walking through, and around the train, providing an all-encompassing learning experience.
The arrival of the first four Metropolis metro trains designated for Line 5 in Romania marks a significant step towards the launch of passenger services on Bucharest’s most advanced metro line. These trains are currently undergoing the necessary tests to secure the Technical Agreement from railway authorities before entering passenger service.
Designed to meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide, Alstom’s industry-leading Metropolis metro solutions have been keeping cities moving for over 60 years. More than 80 clients operate Alstom-made metro systems, with over 35,000 metro cars either ordered or in use across more than 70 cities in 40 countries. Alstom’s commitment to innovation, safety, and efficiency continues to shape the future of urban transportation, ensuring that cities around the world can continue to thrive and grow.