The first metro train for Line 18, a major expansion of Paris’s public transport network, was delivered to the Palaiseau operations centre on Tuesday, 17 June 2025. Announced in a joint statement by the Société des grands projets, Île-de-France Mobilités and Alstom, this development marks the beginning of the final testing phase ahead of the line’s entry into service in the last quarter of 2026.
Line 18 in Testing Phase: Massy – Palaiseau Section to Be First to Open
With the first train set to be delivered in May in accordance with the agreed schedule, line 18 has entered a comprehensive testing phase. This phase includes the first section of the line between Massy – Palaiseau and Christ de Saclay stations. In the last quarter of 2026 It covers the critical final work before it enters service.
By the end of 2026, 199 train sets for line 18, ordered and financed by Île-de-France Mobilités for a total of 15 million euros, will have been delivered to the Palaiseau operations centre. Ten train sets will be needed to operate the first section of the line, and five additional train sets will be needed to operate the second section to Orly Airport, which is planned to be put into service by the end of 10.
Comprehensive Testing and Compatible Systems Goal
The arrival of the first trains on line 18 marks the start of a new testing phase, following months of static and dynamic tests at the Alstom site and at the Valenciennes rail test centre (Centre d'Essais Ferroviaires). All tests on line 18 will be controlled from a central command centre at the Palaiseau operations centre, which was completed in spring 2025 and where Alstom has installed the control systems for the line's equipment. Alstom will coordinate these tests, which are a key stage in validating the transport system before it is taken over by operator Keolis, commissioned by Île-de-France Mobilités.
In June, the so-called “static” tests of the rolling stock began. Within the scope of these tests, the perimeter of the tracks where the metro will be operated and tested for the first time (red zone) was marked and electrified at the Palaiseau operations center. By the end of the year, 8,5 train sets will be delivered to Palaiseau to allow the dynamic tests (train operation) to be gradually extended to the entire 10 km section between Massy-Palaiseau and Christ de Saclay stations. The aim is to ensure that rolling stock is compatible with all equipment installed in tunnels and stations (platform facades, passenger information system and on-board/ground radio required to ensure communication between trains and technical facilities on the ground).
Unique Features of Line 18 Trains
In September 2021, Société des grands projets and Île-de-France Mobilités awarded Alstom a contract for the production and delivery of rolling stock and the supply of automatic train control systems and central control system for line 18. The train sets are designed and assembled at Alstom’s Valenciennes site with assistance from five other Alstom sites in France.
Train number 18, total length 47 meters, width 2,5 meters one From 3 wagons consists of a total of 350 passenger capacity owner. Unique and innovative design, was developed by the Alstom design office in collaboration with Île-de-France Mobilités, Société des grands projets and Egis Rail. The interior design was conceived to ensure maximum safety and comfort for users:
- Maximum amount of light: A harmonious lighting environment throughout the train with natural light thanks to large windows and artificial light thanks to under-seat and in-cabin lighting.
- Comfortable seats: Comfortable seats designed in collaboration with ergonomic experts.
- More inclusiveness: Accessibility for all with wider doors, a lower floor and special areas for people with reduced mobility/wheelchair users.
- Modern and comfortable travel environment: A technological and enjoyable journey thanks to smart air conditioning, LED lighting, USB ports and real-time passenger information screens.
This modernization will shape the future of Paris's public transport network and deliver a more efficient transportation experience for residents.
