Alstom conducts initial dynamic tests for Riyadh Metro
Train trials test Metro system’s power supply, signalling and other system performances
French engineering major Alstom has started initial dynamic tests for the Riyadh Metro at the project’s Line 4 depot test track in the Saudi Capital.
A statement from Alstom said the tests have been going on for the past few weeks and include the demonstration of the performance of the railway system, from power supply to signalling systems, using trains which have already been delivered.
“This test run is a significant milestone for Alstom and for the project. We are proud to conduct the tests in Riyadh in order to deliver a state-of-the-art metro to our customer Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA) and the inhabitants and the visitors of Riyadh,” said Didier Pfleger, Alstom’s senior vice president for Middle East and Africa.
The Riyadh Metro Project, owned by ADA, consists of six lines totalling 176km and 85 metro stations. It is being built by the FAST consortium, of which Alstom is a part. The French giant is supplying a fully integrated metro system for lines 4, 5 and 6, which includes 69 Metropolis-based Riyadh Metro trains, Urbalis signalling system, Hesop energy recovery station as well as tracks.
The Metropolis-based train for Riyadh is composed of two cars per set and is 36m long. Each train features three classes: first, family and singles class. The trains will offer passengers a high level of comfort, ergonomic seating, LED lighting, air conditioning and passenger information system, said Alstom.
The company added that the trains are driverless and their movements are protected by a state-of-the-art signalling system controlling the speed of the trains, ensuring smooth and safe operations, including automatic opening of the train doors. The fully air-conditioned stations are equipped with platform screen doors, preventing people to access the track. The trains are also equipped with an advanced passenger information system delivering real time information to the passengers through screens and loudspeakers on board and on the platforms.
