Alstom begins dynamic testing of the first Line 7 train of Santiago Metro
The tests validate the integration and performance of critical train systems, including traction, braking, signalling and passenger systems.
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Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, and Metro de Santiago have reached a new milestone in the development of Santiago’s future Line 7, with the start of dynamic testing for the first Metropolis AS-22-UTO driverless train. The tests are being carried out at Alstom’s Taubaté site, in Brazil, and are a key step towards bringing the new line into passenger service. Once completed, Line 7 will improve mobility for around 1.6 million people and strengthen sustainable public transport options across the Chilean capital.
A comprehensive and rigorous test program
The testing program is designed to ensure the train complies with design specifications and performance requirements before entering service. Static testing verifies the train’s mechanical and electrical systems while stationary, including dimensions, weight, air conditioning, motors, doors, lighting and passenger information systems.
Once that phase is complete, the train enters the dynamic testing phase. These tests assess the train’s performance in motion, including traction, braking and signalling functions, as well as the operation of the Unattended Train Operation (UTO) system that will enable fully automated service on Line 7. The tests are conducted on the dedicated test track at Alstom’s Taubaté facility.
To date, seven of the 37 units ordered for Line 7 have been assembled and are currently in various stages of manufacturing or testing.
“Every test passed is another step toward the launch of a line that will change the way Santiago gets around. Today we have seven trains already assembled, and the first one is progressing through its dynamic tests. This isn’t just about rolling stock—it’s the trust we’ve built over more than 50 years of working with Metro de Santiago that now allows four out of every five trains running on the network to bear the Alstom name” said Jean-Michel Morvan, Alstom’s general managing director for Southern Latin America. “This project is a step forward toward cutting-edge mobility for Chile and for the way millions of people will experience the city with a smart and sustainable solution from Alstom.”
A long-standing partnership
The Line 7 project represents the latest chapter in a partnership spanning more than five decades between Alstom and Metro de Santiago, underscoring a shared commitment to supporting Santiago’s urban mobility ambitions and the advancement of sustainable mobility in Chile.
For Patricio Rey, chairman of Metro de Santiago, this milestone marks a decisive stage in the process of introducing the Line 7 trains. “This is excellent news. To date, seven of the 37 units ordered for Line 7 have been assembled and are at various stages of manufacture and testing. The start of dynamic testing confirms the project’s progress and brings us closer to the moment when these trains arrive in Chile for the line’s future commissioning, helping to improve mobility for approximately 1.6 million people, relieving congestion on Line 1 and strengthening a sustainable public transport alternative”.
About Line 7
Currently under construction, Line 7 of the Santiago Metro will be 26 kilometres long and will have 19 stations, serving an estimated population of 1.6 million residents. Alstom is manufacturing the project’s 37 Metropolis trains at its plant in Taubaté, Brazil, in addition to supplying the Urbalis CBTC signalling system and providing 20 years of maintenance, among other contracts. The first train is scheduled to arrive in Santiago in early 2027.
Alstom in Chile
Alstom has been present in Chile for more than 80 years, contributing to the development of the country’s infrastructure. With more than 700 employees across 8 facilities, the company operates commuter trains, regional trains, signalling systems, and infrastructure and maintenance services. To date, Alstom has supplied Metro de Santiago with the NS74, NS93, AS02, NS04, and NS16 fleets, to which the new AS22 trains for Line 7 will be added.
ALSTOM™, Metropolis™ and Urbalis™ are protected trademarks of the Alstom Group.
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