The First Driverless Metro Train Will Debut in Moscow Next Year

Moscow is preparing to roll out its first fully driverless metro train by the end of 2026, part of a broader push to integrate autonomous transport into the city’s infrastructure.

Autonomous trains are entering the final stretch of trials in the Russian capital. Mayor Sergei Sobyanin announced that Moscow’s metro will put its first driverless passenger trains into operation by late 2026. The rollout follows a three-stage testing process: first, empty runs without passengers; second, trips with passengers but still under driver supervision; and finally, full-scale operations powered by digital control systems.

Sobyanin noted that over time, Moscow’s entire public transport fleet could become autonomous. But he cautioned against expecting rapid change, saying this transformation will take more than just a few years. Rail-based transport, however, will move faster than others. In fact, the city plans to launch its first autonomous tram in September, and within five years, two-thirds of Moscow’s trams are expected to operate without drivers.

By several metrics, Moscow has already emerged as a global leader in autonomous transport technologies. On the Moscow Central Circle, the automated “Lastochka” train is already running. Looking ahead, officials are considering the introduction of electric buses with driverless capabilities as well.