The new 10,000 series trains for the Madrid Metro, destined for Line 6, have begun trial running on the network. These are night-time operations to be carried out on Lines 10 and 11, the lines closest to the Cuatro Vientos depot.
As the train bodies have a maximum width 6 cm greater than that of the current trains, the units have been fitted with gauge detectors to avoid material damage. These are the protruding sensors visible in the photo on the side of the train.
The series was presented at these facilities last month, after composition number 2 (cars 0A10007 to 0A10012) was delivered by CAF. Meanwhile, the first composition remains under testing in Corella (Navarra), on the tracks that CAF has on the former Soria–Castejón line.
These trains are the first on the Madrid Metro network designed to run fully automatically, driverless. Whereas on the other lines operation is automatic with supervision (automation grade 2), the 10,000 series has no cab and requires no on-board staff (automation grade 4).
However, the trains have a concealed desk at each end to allow manual driving, as is done on those sections that lack the CBTC system adapted to GoA 4.
Testing on Line 6 will begin shortly, according to the Comunidad de Madrid. Metro is currently working on installing platform edge doors that prevent objects and people from falling onto the track. In addition, the platforms at Moncloa station that were not refurbished during the partial closures are being adapted.
When the works are completed in 2027, Line 6 will be the first driverless metro line in the region and the fourth in Spain. At present, Lines 9, 10 and 11 of the Barcelona Metro already operate at GoA 4.