Singapore launches first stretch of driverless Downtown Line

Singapore has opened the first phase of what will become the island’s longest automated metro line.

The first section of Singapore’s 42-kilometre Downtown Line opened to passengers on December 22, marking another milestone in the completion of the new system.

Six driverless trains will operate on the 4.3-kilometre DTL1 stretch, calling at six stations between Chinatown and Bugis.

The line is on target for completion in 2017, with the opening of a 16.6-kilometre segment set to take place in 2016.

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has said the line will “facilitate direct travel from the northwestern and eastern areas of the island to the Central Business District (CBD) and the Marina Bay areas”.




Continue reading...