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Alstom to modernise Paris Metro Line 8 with its I‑CBTC system

French manufacturer Alstom has been selected by RATP to implement its I‑CBTC system, which will bring Grade‑2 automation to Paris Metro Line 8. The upgrade will enhance service regularity and allow for an increased number of trains in operation.

Alstom to modernise Paris Metro Line 8 with its I‑CBTC system
Train of the MF77 series at Invalides station on line 8 of the Paris metro (CC BY SA) CHABE01-Wikimedia Commons. Cropped image.

Miguel Bustos | 12-03-2026.

Alstom has been chosen by RATP, on behalf of Île‑de‑France Mobilités, to supply its I‑CBTC on‑board automatic control system for Paris Metro Line 8.

The contract forms part of the OCTYS 2030 programme, which aims to deploy automatic train operation systems across the metro network to boost performance, reliability, and support the introduction of the new MF19 rolling stock, scheduled to enter service in 2029.

The agreement covers two main components: an on‑board system enabling driver‑supervised automatic operation (Grade of Automation 2), and a radio system for real‑time data transmission between train and trackside. Alstom will also oversee the coordination of the overall automatic driving system.

Developed entirely in France, the I‑CBTC solution meets the latest safety and cybersecurity standards while reducing headways and improving service reliability.

Three Alstom sites will take part in the project: Aix‑en‑Provence (project management and development), Saint‑Ouen (installation and testing) and Villeurbanne (electronic equipment production).

At present, more than 200 Paris Metro trains already operate with this technology, which carries over 350 million passengers each year.

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