Lisbon Metro has presented the new ML 24 series carriages, included in the contract signed on October 22nd with the company Stadler Rail Valencia. The deal included the acquisition of 24 triple units (72 carriages), with the option of a further 12 triple units (36 carriages), for 134 million euros.

"This contract was signed following the launch of an international public tender for the acquisition of rolling stock for the Lisbon Metropolitan network, launched on November 30, 2023, with a base price of 138 million euros, plus VAT on the current legal rate.

The acquisition, which is co-financed in the amount of €45 million by the Sustainable 2030 Program and the remainder by the Environmental Fund, is based on the "expected increase in demand on the Metro network in the coming years in relation to the expansion of the network".

"The increase and adjustment of operating frequencies as a result of the installation of the new CBTC (Communications-based Train Control) regulation system and, also, the need to adequately manage the life cycles of the Lisbon Metro rolling stock fleet, ensuring processes of scheduled replacement of end-of-life assets", are also justifications listed.

The new compositions, which have "a modern image", maintain "a coherence with the image of the previous series" and guarantee "full accessibility, featuring areas for attaching wheelchairs, duly marked, equipped with a backrest, seat belt and side support, intercom and warning button for contacting the driver".

"The visual contrast between the doors and the structure of the carriages was also reinforced, which, combined with other visual and audible indicators, allows customers with visual impairments to better locate the doors and assess their opening and closing status", highlighted the notice.

Also included are innovations such as "new automatic and continuous train control system, new video monitoring systems, air conditioning of the driving cabin, ventilation of passenger lounges, fire detection, space for larger luggage, digital panels for customer information and improvement of gallery evacuation conditions, sensing and predictive maintenance".

Furthermore, "each triple unit of the new ML 24 is made up of two motor carriages and an intermediate trailer carriage", being prepared for automatic driving with a driver on board, "who will ensure supervision and control functions of the operation, with a central position of driving in the cabin, similar to the ML20 series".

"This is yet another investment that is part of the Lisbon Metro Expansion and Modernization Plan, which aims to contribute to improving mobility in the city, promoting accessibility and connectivity in public transport, promoting the reduction of travel times, decarbonization and sustainable mobility".