Moscow to Launch Fully Driverless Trains on Central Circle by 2027

Moscow is set to introduce fully driverless trains on its Central Circle (MCC) line by 2027. The move follows years of gradual automation and comes as part of a broader upgrade to the city's transport network. Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Saveliev announced the plans at the International Transport and Logistics Forum. The transition to fully automated trains began in 2024, when the MCC rolled out Lastochka trains with Level 3 automation. These trains still required a driver in the cabin to oversee operations and manage doors. Now, the next phase will see 60 electric trains upgraded to Level 4 automation, removing the need for any onboard staff.

Between 2026 and 2029, a total of 139 trains will operate with Level 3 automation. By 2029, at least 30 of the new Lastochka trains will run entirely without human intervention. The shift builds on Moscow's long-term investment in transport technology, including the Troika card system, which has seen over 22.4 billion trips since its launch.

Over the past 13 years, the city has issued more than 54 million Troika cards, all of which have been manufactured locally since late 2023. The expansion of automation aligns with efforts to modernise infrastructure and improve efficiency across the network. The introduction of Level 4 automation will make the MCC one of the first urban rail networks to operate fully driverless trains. The 60 upgraded Lastochka units will join the fleet by 2029, marking a significant step in Moscow's transport modernisation. Passengers will continue using the Troika system, which remains central to the city's transit operations.