CMRL will upgrade Chennai’s public transport network by introducing its first driverless metro train by February 2027. As part of Chennai Metro Rail Limited’s (CMRL) Phase-2 expansion, this development signals the transition to a more intelligent and efficient metro system that aims to reduce congestion and elevate the commuter experience.
Alstom To Lead Chennai’s Driverless Metro Train Production
Contract is awarded and Agreement Signed for Procurement of 32 numbers of 3-car Driverless (UTO) Trains.
Chennai Metro Rail Limited has signed a Contract Agreement for procurement of 32 driverless 3-car (UTO) trains consisting of 96 cars. The contract has been awarded to M/s.… pic.twitter.com/1JprjD5AZC— Chennai Metro Rail (@cmrlofficial) June 5, 2025
CMRL has officially signed a contract agreement with Alstom Transport India Limited for the supply of 32 Unattended Train Operation (UTO) 3-car trains—totalling 96 cars. As reported by CMRL, the contract is valued at ₹1,538.35 crore and was finalised on 6 June 2025, following a Letter of Acceptance issued earlier on 28 April 2025.
The scope of this agreement includes the design, manufacture, supply, testing, commissioning, personnel training, and 15 years of comprehensive maintenance. Alstom will deliver the first trainset by February 2027 to the CMRL Phase-2 depot. The subsequent trains will arrive between September 2027 and May 2028. All trains will undergo 14 months of integrated testing, including compatibility checks with systems and service trials.
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This deal marks the third and final contract for driverless metro trains under Phase-2. The first two contracts were awarded earlier, and deliveries under those agreements have already begun. With this signing, CMRL concludes all rolling stock procurements required for Phase-2.
Smart Features To Enhance Passenger Experience
According to The Times of India, the new UTO trains will incorporate smart features such as air conditioning, perch seating for standees, and designated spaces for women and differently-abled commuters. Each train will also include advanced systems like obstacle detectors, fire extinguishers, and regenerative braking for energy efficiency.
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Notably, the train design draws on Tamil Nadu’s rich culture. Design elements include Bharatanatyam hand gestures and traditional kolam patterns, reflecting the city’s unique identity.
A New Chapter In Chennai’s Transit Future
CMRL’s commitment to driverless technology demonstrates Chennai’s push toward sustainable urban development. Alstom is manufacturing these new trains under the Make in India initiative to improve daily commuting by making it safer, faster, and more accessible for Chennai’s residents. The initiative not only supports local manufacturing but also drives job creation and technological innovation. With Phase-2 contracts finalised, Chennai is on track to join global cities embracing fully automated metro systems.
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