DRIVERLESS TRANSIT IN LILLE, A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE

The evolution of the VAL system from a simple shuttle to a high performance, fully automated, line haul transit system is described. An explanation is given of the urban and political framework which helped to facilitate the implement of the project. The history of the project and rationale for the decision to go with an exclusive right of way, fixed guideway, driverless system is explained. Key features of the system are described including vehicles, stations, viaducts, command and control system and tunnels. Safety, security, availability and reliability data are presented. The role of the platform screen doors is described and the use of frequent train arrivals, CCTV and small stations as aids to crime deterrence is explained. The quality of service that is so crucial to its ridership success is highlighted. The role of high speed availability and reliability in attracting ridership is presented. Passenger traffic figures, system usage and operational characteristics are given. Riidership growth over ten years is identified, beginning with 35, 000 passengers per day to 30,000 passenger per day. The paper also identifies the dividends of driverless operation by citing productivity and operating figures. The absence of drivers and the use of telemetry technology in insuring exceptionally high productivity is explained. The effect of system expansion on productivity are also identified. Technical, economic and ridership conclusions are drawn from the decade of operating experience. In Lille, the VAL system covers its expenses with its revenues from passenger fares. Driverless operation provides unmatched safety. Due to the quality of service provided, the VAL system has attracted partronage far in excess of initial forecasts. Since the opening of Lille, the VAL system has been selected by seven cities and two airports worldwide for their transit system, including the recently opened VAL system in Taipei, Taiwan.