First Trains Hit the Tracks to Ease Network Congestion
On August 24, Spain’s national railway company, Renfe, officially launched the first of its new high-capacity trains, procured from Swiss manufacturer Stadler, on the Cercanías Madrid commuter network. Following a series of certifications, commercial simulations, and diverse operational tests, the new trains have made their debut on the C-7 line.
Cercanías Madrid is Spain’s busiest commuter rail system, carrying over 730,000 passengers on an average weekday. The gradual deployment of these new trains is intended to significantly reduce overcrowding and will eventually be extended to other lines across the Madrid network.
Over €1.3 Billion Investment for a Comprehensive Upgrade
This fleet renewal is part of a major investment by Renfe, encompassing an order for 79 trains with a total public investment of approximately €1.306 billion. Officials project that the full rollout of these new trains will boost the overall capacity of the Cercanías Madrid fleet by 20%.
The new trains feature a mixed design of single and double-decker cars, reaching a maximum length of 200 meters. They run on the Iberian gauge and have a top operating speed of 140 km/h. Beyond the capacity boost, the trains offer an enhanced passenger experience with improved accessibility, greater comfort, and dedicated multi-purpose areas for cyclists.
Infrastructure Work Leads to Temporary Service Changes
Coinciding with the launch of the new trains, essential infrastructure upgrades are underway across the Cercanías network. This will result in temporary service disruptions on certain lines, and passengers are advised to plan their journeys in advance.
The specific changes are as follows:
- Line C-8b: From August 22 to September 5, service between Cercedilla and Los Molinos is suspended. Renfe will provide up to 38 replacement shuttle buses daily.
- Sol Station: Due to tunnel construction, the station will be temporarily closed on the weekends of August 29-30 and September 5-6. Consequently, trains on lines C-3 and C-4 will terminate at Atocha, while trains on lines C-4a and C-4b will terminate at Nuevos Ministerios.
