In service since November 17, the automatic piloting system of line 1 is disappointing travelers. Some point to noise pollution and excessively long waiting times.
Highly anticipated, the device was ultimately considered disappointing. Since November 17, line 1 of the Lille metro, which connects Quatre Cantons Lezennes to the CHU-Eurasanté, has been running using automatic piloting. And, after a few days, the first reactions from users are not positive.
Travelers often complain of harsher braking, loud announcements and more frequent interruptions.
“Waiting times are much longer than before and the sounds are louder. The flow is much greater,” says one traveler.
“In terms of sound, it’s too annoying, it annoys us. We know we’re going to go to that place and they tell us it every time,” says another.
A device in the testing phase
On paper, this automatic piloting system should allow the Lille metro to adapt to ridership and enable faster, smoother and safer train circulation.
This is a prerequisite for the deployment of the 52-meter trains, the installation of which, financed by the European Metropolis of Lille (MEL), is planned for February 2026. The project should make it possible to double transport capacity.
Except that the implementation of this system had not gone correctly, according to Mathieu Giraud, president of the Union des Voyageurs du Nord. “What is very negative is the time it took, the delay and the total lack of communication from Ilevia and the MEL,” he explains.
“It’s mainly because the metro doesn’t work. We had very long periods of interruption. It’s normal that there are adjustments, but with a little anticipation, it could have gone much better pass,” adds the representative.
The Alstom group, at the origin of the control system, specified that the device is in a trial phase, which will end in a month. Adjustments could still take place by mid-December.
Clément Polyn with Mélanie Hennebique
What are the key lessons learned from the initial rollout of the automated system in Lille, and how will these inform future implementations of similar technologies in other cities?
## World Today News Interview: Lille Metro’s Automated Future
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we’re discussing the recent implementation of automatic piloting on Line 1 of the Lille metro. While touted as a major step towards a smoother and more efficient public transport system, its roll-out has been met with mixed reactions from passengers. Joining us today are Mathieu Giraud, President of the Union des Voyageurs du Nord, and a representative from Alstom, the company responsible for the control system.
**Section 1: Initial Reactions and Passenger Experience**
* **To Mathieu Giraud:** Mr. Giraud, the article highlights passengers expressing dissatisfaction with noise levels, harsher braking, and longer waiting times. Could you share your organization’s observations and concerns regarding the impact of this new system on passenger experience?
* **To Alstom Representative:** We understand this is a trial phase. Can you elaborate on the technical reasons behind the issues mentioned by passengers, such as the noise and braking, and how you plan to address them?
**Section 2: Project Implementation and Communication**
* **To Mathieu Giraud:** The article mentions delays in the implementation and lack of communication from Ilevia and MEL. Could you elaborate on these issues and their impact on public trust in the project?
* **To Alstom Representative:** What challenges did your team encounter during the implementation process, and what lessons have you learned that could improve future projects of this nature?
**Section 3: Long-Term Vision and Benefits**
* **To both guests:** Despite initial challenges, the automatic piloting system is intended to pave the way for larger trains and increased capacity. Can you discuss the long-term benefits this project ultimately aims to achieve for the Lille metro and its passengers?
* **To Mathieu Giraud:** What are the Union des Voyageurs du Nord’s expectations regarding the performance and public acceptance of the system after the trial phase? What specific improvements would you like to see?
* **To Alstom Representative:** How will Alstom ensure that passenger feedback is incorporated into the final system adjustments and future developments?
**Section 4: Looking Ahead**
* **To both guests:** What advice would you give to other cities considering implementing similar automated systems in their public transportation networks? What key factors should be prioritized to ensure a smoother transition and greater public acceptance?
**Concluding Remarks:**
We thank both Mr. Giraud and the Alstom representative for sharing their insights on this significant development in Lille’s public transportation system. As the trial phase progresses and adjustments are made, it will be crucial to monitor the system’s performance and its impact on the daily lives of Lille’s commuters.
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