Moscow Launches Russia’s First AI-Controlled Passenger Tram
Moscow has introduced Russia’s first autonomous tram with passengers, a breakthrough in urban transport technology. The tram operates fully on artificial intelligence while a human operator supervises onboard tasks.
The project is part of Moscow’s long-term transport strategy to 2030. Officials plan to equip over 300 trams with autonomous systems by then, reaching 90 percent of the fleet by 2035.
Key Features of the AI Tram:
- Stops independently and manages doors automatically
- Follows traffic lights and pedestrian crossings
- Switches tracks without human intervention
- Maintains strict adherence to schedules
Since May 2024, the tram completed more than 8,000 kilometers of testing without any traffic violations.
Trial Phases Before Launch:
- Night operations without passengers
- Supervised journeys with passengers
- Full autonomous operation
Federal regulations still require a human operator onboard for oversight and fare control. The AI system, developed in Moscow, handles all driving functions.
Expansion Plans:
- 3 autonomous trams in operation by the end of 2025
- Fleet grows to 15 by 2026
- Autonomous metro testing starts December 2025, with passenger service expected in 2026
Moscow’s AI tram program positions the city as a global leader in smart public transport innovation, blending safety, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology.
