Moscow Metro Tests First Driverless Train on Big Circle Line

Driverless technology is expected to come to the Moscow Metro in the near future. According to Вечерняя Москва, deputy mayor for transport and industry Maxim Liksutov described how testing of the first driverless metro train is progressing.

Testing so far

Trial operation of the first driverless train in Russia began in January 2026 on the Big Circle Line (BKL). According to Maxim Liksutov, the train is passing tests in driverless mode, still without passengers.

Software developed by Moscow specialists controls acceleration and braking, and opens and closes the doors at stations. The system can send the train an immediate signal when objects appear on the tracks, and it also monitors train intervals.

Engineers are currently checking several key systems: automatic train control, track-fall control, machine vision, and interaction with the dispatch center.

Stopping accuracy and track sensors

According to the deputy mayor, the driverless train already stops with an accuracy of up to 30 centimeters. RFID tags have been installed at all 29 stations of the Big Circle Line. They are intended to support precise and smooth stops and to track the position of the train automatically.

The track-fall control system is being tested at Pechatniki station. It is designed to detect objects on the tracks so the train can stop in advance, and to warn passengers when they approach the edge of the platform. According to Maxim Liksutov, the technology will operate at all BKL stations by 2030.

Timeline

• By the end of 2026: the driverless train is expected to run regularly on the Big Circle Line, on schedule with other trains and without passengers.
• In 2027: test trips with passengers are planned to begin.
• By 2030: all 94 trains on the Big Circle Line are to be driverless, equipped with automatic train control, machine vision and dispatch center interaction systems.

The information comes from the deputy mayor's statements to the newspaper. The planned intervals follow Moscow Metro standards, with 90 seconds during the busiest hours. Passengers should expect the changes to be introduced in stages, starting with testing rather than regular passenger service.

According to the source, the research priorities of the Moscow transport department include electric transport, driverless technology for metro trains and trams, and intelligent road systems.