The Lisbon Metro has announced that it received authorization from the Court of Auditors for the purchase of 24 triple units, based on an agreement signed on October 22, 2024, with Stadler Rail Valencia for a total of 134 million euros.
The contract spans 54 months, equivalent to four and a half years, commencing after preliminary approval.
There is also the option to acquire an additional 36 carriages (12 triple units) for the company’s fleet, as outlined by the Metro.
The acquisition of the new series ML 24 triple units is justified by anticipated growth in demand for the Metro network in the coming years, due to its expansion. This expansion includes increased and adjusted operation frequencies resulting from the installation of a new regulation system known as CBTC (Communications-based Train Control), as well as the need to replace aging assets.
The ML 24 units will feature a new system for continuous automatic train control, enhanced video surveillance, climate control and ventilation systems, fire detection capabilities, space for larger baggage, digital customer information panels, and improved evacuation conditions in tunnels, as highlighted by the Lisbon Metro.
Each of the 24 triple units consists of two powered carriages and an intermediate trailer carriage. They are configured for automatic driving with an operator present on board.
The new carriages will offer full accessibility, with areas designated for securing wheelchairs, intercoms, and alert buttons for contacting the operator. Additionally, there is a heightened visual contrast between the doors and the carriage structure, which, coupled with other visual and auditory indicators, aids visually impaired passengers in locating doors and assessing their open or closed status.
The international public tender for these units was launched on December 4, 2023, with a base price set at 138 million euros plus VAT.
This acquisition is co-financed with 45 million euros from the Sustainable Program 2030 and the remainder from the Environmental Fund.
